ART ON THE SQUARE FINE ART GALLERY
WHEN Art Central Gallery opened in Summerville, South Carolina, in 1998, the cooperative gallery was run by 13 artists whose vision, beyond creating art, was to connect with their surrounding community. A successful 21 years later, the gallery moved to Nexton Square and rebranded as Art on the Square Gallery.
The gallery spent five years in Nexton, growing to nearly 40 artists strong and enriching the community around it—though the original artist-owners still never forgot their original roots in Summerville. When space downtown, at 138 South Main St., opened, Art on the Square found its new home in familiar surroundings. The historic building that now houses the gallery required some work—a blank canvas whose spaces needed care ahead of the art that now hangs from its walls and imbues its every corner with color.
The gallery’s return to Summerville is something of a homecoming as well as a renewal. Located on historic Hutchinson Square, Art on the Square Fine Art Gallery has been thoughtfully designed to be welcoming and approachable, offering an open, airy and light-filled environment where each artist’s work is given room to celebrate its individuality while also playing a part in the larger narrative of creativity that has always made the gallery special.
Officially opened in July of 2025, the new gallery represents 29 artists whose work ranges from the precise brushstrokes of realism to the vibrant, expressive colors of abstract acrylics and from whimsical illustrations to fiber and multimedia art and handcrafted goods—all of which have been created by the diverse artistic community of the Lowcountry.
“This is more than just a gallery—it’s a gathering place,” says artist-owner Renee Bruce. “It’s a community hub, a place where creativity, connection and inspiration meet.”
To that end, several of the gallery’s artists now offer art classes in a variety of mediums, offering visitors the opportunity to try their hand at something new, hone their talents or just explore their creativity. Beyond exhibitions and classes, the gallery actively partners with local organizations and participates in community events, reinforcing its mission of contributing to the community of Summerville.
“We welcome everyone,” says Bruce. “Whether you’re a seasoned artist or someone who hasn’t held a paintbrush since childhood, there’s a place for you here. Whether you’re starting your first collection or looking for a piece that speaks to your heart, we invite you to come explore the stories and talent behind every brushstroke.”
