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People are often amazed by how many talented and successful artists live on Sullivan’s Island. The Battery Gadsden Cultural Center has showcased many of these artists in past exhibitions, but on Saturday, Feb. 22, it will open its doors for a special one-man exhibit featuring the works of Sullivan’s Island resident and artist J.D. Clark.
Clark made a successful transition from business executive to artist in 2013, though art was nothing new to him. Since the fourth grade, he has considered himself a “museum rat,” studying under teachers and mentors who helped him refine his artistic vision. His work is displayed in homes worldwide, and his accomplishments include the award-winning piece Hypocrisy as well as world injustice paintings such as Phantom of the Bat Caves and Central Park. His oil painting Yonge’s Island Post Office hangs in one of Charleston’s most historic buildings, The Old Exchange.
But what does Clark consider his most “successful” work? He explains:
“Can painting the Charleston Waffle House off U.S. 17 South on a scorching hot summer day while wearing a cowboy hat set in motion a viral sensation? A passerby sees the scene as glorious and posts it on social media. Eight million views, more than 240,000 likes, and 600 comments later, a modern element of art history is born.
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This is a family tradition at Waffle House. This is the Anthony Bourdain Waffle House. And Waffle Houses are an iconic Southern treasure. That combination—along with the raised beach architecture, distinctive Waffle House colors, lighting, logo, and beautiful wrought iron railings—makes for a happy image to be enjoyed by all.
What I like best about the viral Waffle House art experience was that it was an entirely organic, unplanned event. Who would have thought painting a Waffle House to finish a collaboration with another artist would become one of the most recognized pieces in my collection? The luck of a passerby taking time to post the artist-at-work scene—combined with the humble yet iconic subject matter—still blows my mind. The ‘this is fine art’ irony surprises viewers and spreads joy to tourists and locals alike at the City Market. The original pastel and Polaroid collaboration pieces generate the most interest when exhibited alongside my other most popular works.”
And yes, the original pieces will be on display at Battery Gadsden, along with a supersized art print of the viral photograph and a storyboard about the post.
The Battery Gadsden Cultural Center is thrilled to present Clark’s unique work. Liquid refreshments will be served at this one-night-only show. Doors open at 6 p.m. at Battery Gadsden, 1917 Ion Ave., Sullivan’s Island. Admission is free.
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