About Us
Our slogan is "Rural. Redefined." That's because we're changing the narrative about our community, and other communities like ours, in the rural south.
This area has been called the "corridor of shame," we believe it should rightfully be known as the corridor of fame - because it is home to many gifted and innovative individuals. We seek to elevate their stories and amplify their voices.
We believe the arts can transform rural communities.
Through the arts education, cultural programming, historic preservation, and creative placemaking, we work to strengthen community life, expand creative opportunity, and revitalize the cultural landscape of the rural Lowcountry of South Carolina.
We are committed to ensuring that rural communities are not excluded from meaningful cultural experiences, art, education, or the power of creativity to inspire connection, pride,
and positive change.
Our Story
Sometimes it just takes the right team at the right time for change to happen. In our case, a group of local volunteers were called upon in early 2019 to help rebuild a stagnant local arts council and resurrect a suspended nonprofit that owned a derelict former retail space and an abandoned historic theater in the heart of downtown Hampton. By 2021, we emerged from the pandemic with a large gallery and event space, multiple exhibits, concerts, and workshops under our belt, and a refurbished theater which was open - not only for concerts and performances - but for first run Hollywood films!
We did it with the help of many generous donors, volunteer support, and the invaluable contributions of local youth. To see more, you can watch the documentary film "Corridor of Fame," created about our efforts by local high school students.
Watch it for free here - https://youtu.be/0wPIEBUjj4E
The Palmetto Theater
A piece of South Carolina History
Click the button below to watch Our Vanishing Americana: South Carolina, a documentary film produced by South Carolina ETV exploring historic places and cultural landmarks across the state. The film features the historic Palmetto Theater, along with interviews and commentary from Hampton Friends of the Arts Board Chairman John Wright and Executive Director Heather Bruemmer. Our segment begins at approximately the 7-minute mark.
