SOBA Gallery to feature paintings by Julie Jones

Bluffton artist Julie Jones will showcase paintings inspired by Lowcountry landscapes and wildlife in “Love Where You Live,” an exhibition opening Oct. 4 at the Society of Bluffton Artists Gallery.

The exhibition, which runs through Oct. 31, will feature Jones’ oil paintings of subjects including marshes, waterways, shorebirds, oyster shells, blue crabs and horseshoe crabs.

A reception with the artist will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. Oct. 10 at the gallery, 7 Church St. in Old Town Bluffton. The reception is free and open to the public.

A Hilton Head Island native who now lives in Bluffton, Jones draws many of her subjects from the coastal environment she has known since childhood.

“I am fortunate to love the place I call home and to have the opportunity to capture pieces of the Lowcountry on canvas,” Jones said. “While I often explore a variety of subjects, I continually find myself drawn back to the landscape and creatures of this unique environment.”

Jones said her ideas often come from time spent exploring beaches and Pinckney Island, collecting shells and observing wildlife.

“I walk our beaches. I wander Pinckney Island. I collect shells, watch birds, turn over horseshoe crabs, and take in the countless small details that make this place special,” she said. “I am surrounded by inspiration to paint where I live and what I love.”

Jones primarily works in oils, which she favors for their blending qualities and color. Her work in the exhibition ranges from coastal landscapes and Lowcountry skies to marine life and other natural subjects.

“Every painting began with a grateful feeling, a thoughtful sketch, a generous mess of color, and usually very loud music,” Jones said.

Jones holds degrees in studio fine arts and art history from the College of Charleston. In addition to her studio work, she creates commissioned paintings, working with clients on subject matter, color palette, style, size and placement.

collections throughout the country, according to the release.

The Society of Bluffton Artists is a nonprofit organization that provides opportunities for local artists to display their work and offers exhibitions, educational programs and events.

“Love Where You Live” will be on display Oct. 4-31 at the SOBA Gallery, 7 Church St. Admission is free.

More information about Jones and her work is available at juliejonesartwork.com and through @juliejonesartwork on Instagram and Facebook.