April Schackman Photography
A Sunday Afternoon at Vondel Park by April Schackman
The City of North Charleston’s Cultural Arts Department is pleased to announce that concurrent exhibitions of 35mm photographs and cyanotype prints by April Schackman (Charleston, SC) and paintings by Jeleata Nicole (Summerville, SC) will be on display at Park Circle Gallery from August 5-29, 2026. The artists will host a free public reception at the gallery on Friday, August 7, from 5-7pm.
A View Through My Lens - Photographs and Cyanotypes by April Schackman
As a documentary and portrait film photographer, April Schackman is passionate about capturing real moments and genuine connections. She enjoys exploring the complexities of human experiences and emotions. Her photography is all about authenticity, whether documenting the everyday lives of people within a community or capturing the raw emotion of a portrait session. Whether it's a candid shot that captures a fleeting expression or a carefully composed portrait that reveals a person's essence, she strives to create images that resonate emotionally. Through her work, she aims to foster empathy, understanding, and connection among viewers.
Schackman’s inspiration usually comes from small moments such as light, color, texture, or a mood she notices in everyday life. Once something resonates, she chooses a film stock that matches the feeling she wants to express and loads it into her camera. She works carefully, paying close attention to how light interacts with the scene. Because film gives her no instant feedback, she must rely on instinct as she meters the light, chooses her exposure, and composes each frame. This approach keeps her present and thoughtful with every shot. For her exhibit, titled A View Through My Lens, she has carefully curated her archives, pulling a few favorites from her travels. Most of these pieces are from her latest trip to Amsterdam and Copenhagen, with the rest taken from other journeys along the way. While many of the prints are presented in a more traditional format, April also wanted to try something different. So, she began experimenting with cyanotype printing, giving these images a new life through an old, handmade process. Learn more about the artist at aprilschackmanphotos.com.
Fierce & Fire by Jeleata Nicole
Colors of the Wild – Paintings by Jeleata Nicole
Inspired by the vibrant landscapes, remarkable wildlife, and rich cultural experiences of South Africa, the works featured in Jeleata Nicole Davis’s exhibition, Colors of the Wild, celebrate the beauty, energy, and spirit of a place that left a lasting impression on her heart. Through bold color, expressive brushwork, and a sense of wonder, these paintings capture moments of connection between people, nature, and the wild. This exhibition is an invitation to experience the sights, stories, and soul of South Africa through her eyes as an artist.
Jeleata Nicole is a Summerville-based mixed media artist originally from Philadelphia, specializing in oil painting and portraiture. With over 23 years of artistic experience, she has developed a distinctive, expressive style that has earned her prestigious awards and placements in collections, museums, and public spaces, including Trinity Church of Boston and Philadelphia City Hall. Nicole’s work extends beyond personal achievement, as she has created impactful Black Lives Matter murals in Pennsylvania and contributed artwork for the Democratic National Convention. Her commitment to social causes is further demonstrated through her advocacy for Compassion International, reflecting her belief in art’s power to inspire change and uplift communities. Jeleata Nicole remains dedicated to sharing her passion and making a positive difference through her creative endeavors. Learn more about the artist at jeleatanicole.com.
The Park Circle Gallery is located at 4820 Jenkins Avenue in North Charleston. Admission is free, and free street parking is available on Jenkins Avenue in front of the gallery, as well as on the adjacent streets and in parking lots close by. Gallery hours are 10:30 am-5:30 pm Wednesday-Friday, and Noon-4:00 pm on Saturday. For more information about PCG, call 843-637-3565 or email culturalarts@northcharleston.