Calling Gullah/Geechee Artists: Paid Opportunity to Turn Marine Debris into Art

A new initiative is looking for Gullah/Geechee artists across South Carolina to turn trash into treasure…literally!

The Gullah/Geechee CREATE Program is offering a paid opportunity for artists to transform marine debris collected from the South Carolina coast into meaningful works of art. The initiative, which runs from 2023 through 2026, is open to established, emerging, student, and community artists rooted in the Gullah/Geechee tradition.

What is CREATE?

CREATE stands for Coastal Debris Removal Engaging Artists Through the Environment. The program is part of a larger effort to clean up the coast while also highlighting the environmental and cultural significance of the Lowcountry region.

How It Works:

Marine debris is collected by local organizations, volunteers, and conservation groups and stored at centralized pickup locations. Artists select materials they want to incorporate into their artwork. Final pieces will be featured in public showcases in 2025 and 2026, sparking conversations about marine pollution and celebrating Gullah/Geechee creativity.

Get Involved:

Artists are encouraged to engage early. If you’re interested in participating, fill out the interest survey here or scan the QR code on the flyer.

For more information, reach out to Matthew Gorstein at Matthew.Gorstein@scseagrant.org or call (843) 953-2084.