The City of Charleston Office of Cultural Affairs is presenting “The Message is Clear: A Mentored Photography Exhibition” at City Gallery from February 20 to May 3, 2026. The exhibition features the work of nine photographers—Toyia Brown, Rush Dixon, Ben Egelson, Kirsten Hoving, KELA, Grace Kreider, Jackie Levesque, Rome, and Vito—who participated in a mentorship program led by internationally recognized photographer Nigel Parry.
Through two in-person sessions with Parry, each artist was encouraged to define and refine the message behind their work. This process resulted in a collaboratively curated collection that aims to reflect clarity of vision and artistic purpose. The exhibition includes both emerging and established artists and emphasizes photography shaped through dialogue and critique.
Redux Contemporary Art Center supported the exhibition by printing all selected works. An opening reception will take place on Friday, February 20 from 5–7 p.m., free and open to the public.
Nigel Parry is known for his editorial, fine art, and commercial photography. His images have appeared in publications such as Vanity Fair, The New York Times Magazine, and Rolling Stone. His work is also included in the collections of the National Portrait Galleries in Washington, DC and London. Parry previously exhibited at City Gallery in 2024.
The participating artists bring a variety of practices ranging from landscape to portraiture as well as multidisciplinary approaches. Each artist shares a focus on intentional storytelling.
City Gallery is located at 34 Prioleau Street in Joe Riley Waterfront Park. Owned by the City of Charleston and operated by its Office of Cultural Affairs, the gallery presents contemporary art from local to international artists with an emphasis on the Lowcountry region. Gallery hours are noon–5 p.m., Wednesday through Sunday. More information can be found at www.charleston-sc.gov/citygallery or by calling 843-958-6484.
Charleston’s cultural institutions often highlight its historical significance through sites such as the Old Slave Mart Museum that addresses aspects of American history like the domestic slave trade (https://www.charleston-sc.gov/160/Old-Slave-Mart-Museum). The city also preserves historic spaces including its Council Chamber dating back to 1818 (https://www.charleston-sc.gov/179/Council-Chamber), which retains original chandeliers and portraits along with light bulbs installed by Thomas Edison that functioned until 1983 (https://www.charleston-sc.gov/179/Council-Chamber). Charleston’s mission includes preserving quality of life for residents while working with regional partners (https://www.charleston-sc.gov/403/Mission-Values), reflecting its broader influence across areas around Charleston Harbor within the larger metropolitan region (https://www.charleston-sc.gov/2010/History).
