We Take Our Painting Seriously Here

"The South Carolina Watercolor Society, 500 members strong, welcomes anyone who is a resident or property owner in South Carolina and who works in watercolors and acrylics.

"Each year our society has a show: a truck travels to different cities throughout the state to pick up the actual works. This year the more than 250 entries—about 80 of these from the North Augusta area—will be taken to Newberry for judging. The judge is a member of the American Watercolor Society and has a long list of honors.

"I think real style comes not from a technique of painting, but from a philosophy of seeing and living. Being original should be the result of a vision, not of a clever brush stroke. I draw with my eyes closed and I paint from the inside instead of looking at something and trying to copy it.

"My husband and I live in a big old house in Augusta, but the children are all grown and it's time to downscale. We're moving to Hammond's Ferry for many reasons—because it is town-centered, because there is not as much house and yard to take care of, and because we will be near the river. I love the river; its movement and flow are inspiring."

Jill Stafford is an artist, past president of the South Carolina Watercolor Society and future Hammond's Ferry resident.

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