*Studio Open Hours : Thursday- Saturday

2-6 PM

Medium : Noun

The material or form used by an artist.

The "Mediums" exhibition, taking place from September 21st to October 12th at Ben Nixon Studios, highlights the diverse talents within the Upstate’s art community. This show features the works of five local artists, each bringing their own style and expertise. Ben Nixon and Carroll Foster both contribute through their distinct approaches to photography. Johni Bleu offers a collection of expressive oil paintings, while Page Jones Davis presents her vibrant abstract pieces. Maggie Macdonald rounds out the exhibition with her contemporary mixed media work, offering a fresh perspective on combining materials and techniques.

Hosted in the inspiring environment of Ben Nixon’s gallery and studio space, "Mediums" goes beyond a typical art show—it's a celebration of the creativity and innovation that defines Spartanburg, SC. The exhibition will culminate in a special closing event on October 12th, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, where the community is invited to engage with the artists and their work. Whether you’re a seasoned art aficionado or just beginning to explore the world of visual art, "Mediums" offers a rich, immersive experience that highlights the future of art in the Upstate.

meet the artists behind "Mediums"

  • Ben nixon

    Photography

    “Drifters” is a series of Sea Nettle Jellyfish photographs made at the Monterey Bay Aquarium in 2005.  Using only the light provided within the jellyfish exhibit itself, Nixon was allowed to set up his hasselblad camera on a tripod and photograph for hours and hours, over several different occasions. He was fascinated by their ability to transmit light and how they responded to the presence of spectators right at the glass."

    see more from Ben Nixon

  • Page Jones Davis

    Abstract Painting

    “the infinite color combinations in nature and in the material world alike are etched into my mind. that bright green patch of moss i saw on my walk that stood out so boldly against the dead winter leaves had such strength and grace. that wacky color combination in a gorgeous fabric was unapologetically loud. the nature of color and its complexities is the fuel for my work. the story that ensues as color becomes form is my fire.”

    see more from Page Jones Davis


  • John Bleu

    Oil Painting

    Primarily Focusing on the human form and portraiture Bleu captures an essence of elegance in his work. His figures and portraits convey a sense of ambiguity that invites contemplation. Through his oil paintings, Bleu shares a rich tapestry of emotions, vulnerabilities, and personal narratives, breathing life into the canvas and cultivating a profound sense of connection and intrique.

    see more from Johni Bleu

  • Carroll Foster

    Photography

    In my work, as a professional photographer I challenge myself to put that design, color or muse that I am so fond of up front. The marriage of creative with technical. Carroll’s work has been in many gallery exhibitions, as well as published in books, magazines, billboards and digital media of all types. His work has even made the big screens in Times Square as well as the New York Yankees stadium!

    see more from Carroll Foster


  • MAGGIE MACDONALD

    Contemporary Mixed Media

    Maggie Macdonald is a contemporary artist and poet widely known for her signature style of vast fields of color soaked into raw canvas and linen. She creates mixed media artworks inspired by the movement of the ocean and the intricacies of human interaction. Her work, often accompanied by poetic or literary elements, shares the stories of her current reality and explores what it means to be human.


    see more from Maggie Macdonald