COLUMBIA - South Carolina ETV and Public Radio (SCETV) is partnering with the Gibbes Museum of Art to extend the impact of “Revelations: The Art of Leo Twiggs,” a retrospective exhibition that traces more than six decades of work by the nationally acclaimed South Carolina artist. The collaboration integrates SCETV’s original documentary, Arriving: Leo Twiggs and His Art, into the museum experience, offering audiences a deeper, more personal understanding of Twiggs’ life, creative process and enduring influence on American art.
On view at the Gibbes Museum of Art from Jan. 30 through May 3, “Revelations: The Art of Leo Twiggs” features more than 40 works created between 1961 and 2020 and marks the first major retrospective of Twiggs’ work in his home state. The exhibition also commemorates the 50th anniversary of Twiggs’ historic 1976 solo exhibition at Gibbes, originally presented during the nation’s bicentennial year. The integration of SCETV’s documentary expands the exhibition experience, allowing visitors to encounter Twiggs’ batik works, created through a multi-layered wax-resist dyeing process, and color alongside the artist’s personal voice and reflections.
Arriving: Leo Twiggs and His Art provides an intimate portrait of Twiggs as both artist and educator, weaving together interviews, archival materials and footage of his creative process. Featured within the exhibition context, the documentary enriches the museum experience by revealing the personal history, academic achievements and cultural significance that underpin the works on display, many of which are emblematic of Twiggs’ technique and his recurring themes of history, identity and hope. Arriving: Leo Twiggs and His Art is currently available for viewing on SCETV.org and in the PBS app.
The collaboration also underscores the shared mission of SCETV and the Gibbes to foster dialogue, education and connection through the arts. The exhibition is accompanied by a full-color catalogue and a robust slate of public programs, inviting visitors to further explore the themes and historical resonance found throughout Twiggs’ work. On March 18 at 6 p.m., SCETV and the Gibbes will host an event to honor Twiggs and the exhibition, featuring a reception and screening of the documentary, followed by a discussion between Twiggs and SCETV filmmakers William Richardson and Xiao Yu. Ticket holders will receive free entry to the Gibbes museum and the exhibition for the event. Tickets to the event can be purchased online.
A native of St. Stephen, South Carolina, Leo Twiggs is widely recognized for his pioneering contributions to art and education. His distinguished career includes more than 75 solo exhibitions, international recognition and numerous honors, including the Order of the Palmetto and induction into the South Carolina Hall of Fame. Today, he continues to create art in his Orangeburg studio and serves as Distinguished Artist in Residence at Claflin University.