“Echoes of Place” exhibition to showcase New Hanover County artists at Fort Fisher
FORT FISHER, NC (WWAY) — The Island Arts Council will host its first-ever juried art exhibition, “Echoes of Place: Artists’ Reflections of New Hanover County,” from Aug. 1-15 at Fort Fisher State Historic Site.
The exhibition will showcase two- and three-dimensional works inspired by the history, landscapes and culture of New Hanover County, with a special focus on Fort Fisher’s significance to the Cape Fear region.
The exhibition will kick off with a free public reception on Saturday, Aug. 1, from 4 to 7 p.m., featuring an awards ceremony, remarks from organizers and historians, and a silent bid fundraiser.
Artwork was selected by juror Gayle Tustin, while historian Dr. Jan Davidson helped provide historical context connecting the featured works to the region’s Indigenous heritage, Civil War history and evolving community.
Awards will be presented in both two-dimensional and three-dimensional categories, along with a People’s Choice Award selected by attendees. Organizers will also introduce a new Historical Excellence Award, recognizing the artwork that best captures the historical spirit of New Hanover County.
“This show has been a labor of love for our entire organization,” said Carol Geary, Island Arts Council vice chair and exhibition chair. “Echoes of Place asks our region’s artists to look closely at where we live — its history, its land, its water — and to reflect that back to our community. Holding it at Fort Fisher, a site with such deep meaning for this county, makes it even more special.”
Guests attending the opening reception will also have the opportunity to participate in a silent bid fundraiser featuring a donation from Total Wine.
The exhibition is free and open to the public during regular Fort Fisher State Historic Site hours from Aug. 1 through Aug. 15.
The event is presented with support from Cape Fear Audi, Embassy Suites, First Citizens Bank and Drift Coffee, along with individual sponsors Jackie Ponzoni and Camille Perotti.
The Island Arts Council is a nonprofit organization serving Carolina Beach and the Pleasure Island area through exhibitions, community arts programming and support for local artists.
