Allegory Art Collective is proud to announce its next exhibition, The Art of Craft.
The exhibition brings together original works commissioned by Proud Mary from artisan artists in four countries: Mexico, India, Madagascar and Namibia. The works on view feature backstrap weaving, hand embroidery, wild silk tapestries and paintings on paper, each created within a living craft tradition and reflecting a distinct artistic vision.
At the heart of Proud Mary is the belief that craft and fine art are not separate categories. The women who inherit the backstrap loom from their mothers are artists. Lambadi embroidery is a sophisticated visual language passed down through generations. Artists from Tanana, Madagascar, transform wild silk into works of exceptional complexity and grace. Their work does not blur the line between craft and fine art; it demonstrates that the distinction has never truly existed.
The exhibition features both original works and limited-edition fine art prints, with the relationship between the two serving as part of the artistic narrative. Each print begins as a commissioned original artwork. From that single piece, Proud Mary produces a limited edition of 50 archival prints, with the artist receiving a 15% royalty from every print sold.
One original. One artist. A return that multiplies without additional labor.
The prints are not decorative reproductions but a way to extend an artisan's authorship and connect their work with a broader audience.
The Art of Craft
- An Exhibition of Original Works and Fine Art Prints
- Presented by Proud Mary
- Opening Reception: Thursday, July 23, noon to 7 p.m.
- On View: July 23-Sept. 4, 2026
- Gallery Hours: Thursdays from 3 to 6 p.m. or by appointment
- Location: Allegory Art Collective, 2111 Heriot St., Charleston, SC 29401
About Proud Mary
Proud Mary is a fine art and limited-edition print studio co-created with global artisans. Its work sits at the intersection of contemporary fine art and traditional craft, creating colorful, globally inspired pieces rooted in collaboration and artistic integrity.
Each work begins as a one-of-a-kind original commissioned directly from the artist. Every print sold generates royalties for its creator, ensuring artists continue to benefit from their work. Through this model, Proud Mary places equal value on beauty, craftsmanship and ethical collaboration.
For more information, visit proudmary.co.