‘Tideland’ is an exhibition of black and white photographs by Savannah-based photographer Parker Stewart (b. 1992). Taken between 2020 and 2024, these evocative photographs document the coast of Georgia by transporting the viewer into the visceral and primordial atmosphere of the barrier islands and inland waterways.

The SCAD Museum of Art is proud to honor our U.S. service members by participating in the annual Blue Star Museums movement. In collaboration with the National Endowment for the Arts, Blue Star Families, the Department of Defense, and museums across America, SCAD MOA welcomes active-duty military personnel and their families with complimentary admission starting on Armed Forces Day, May 17, through Labor Day, Sept. 1, 2025. We look forward to presenting our latest exhibitions to these brave responders.

The SCAD Museum of Art joins world-renowned cultural institutions such as The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York; the Art Institute of Chicago; the de Young Museum, San Francisco; the Smithsonian American Art Museum, Washington, D.C.; and the Dallas Museum of Art as a Blue Star Museum participant.

(Un)Grounded, a solo exhibition of new work by Iranian-American artist Raheleh Filsoofi, is an immersive multimedia installation of ceramic vessels, sound, and video in conversation with the pottery and landscapes on view in The Moss Mystique: Southern Women and Newcomb Pottery. Over the past two years, Filsoofi has traveled to nine states in the Southeast to collect soil, including a visit to Savannah in April 2024. She has carefully archived, processed, and extracted the clay from these locations to form the physical and symbolic content of her multidisciplinary practice. Embracing her movement as a woman and immigrant within the region, (Un)Grounded considers the legacies of Newcomb Pottery through Filsoofi’s personal identity to engage with present-day perceptions surrounding southern identity, transience, and meanings of authenticity.

In 1895, administrators in the art department at the H. Sophie Newcomb Memorial College in New Orleans, Louisiana, a women’s higher education institution that was joined to Tulane University, started a new commercial enterprise so that their students could put the skills they learned in their art and design courses into practice. A group of potters, mostly men, created the various objects out of clays sourced throughout the South, and women graduates of the art program painted them with images of flora and fauna. Newcomb Pottery quickly received praise throughout the US for the quality of its designs and the perceived authenticity of its representation of Southern regional identity, and these strong ties to location remain present today, long after the Pottery’s closure in 1939.

This exhibition focuses on the Newcomb potters’ material and chosen subjects, their relationships to regional identity, and the Pottery’s changing approaches to these subjects over time. Tasked with representing the region through their work, Newcomb designers earned a reputation for turning to their local environment for inspiration. This exhibition explores how designs that featured repeating, semi-abstract, and carefully selected plants such as waterlilies eventually transformed into muted landscapes of moss-draped oaks and cypresses, and the way these images matched romanticized visions of the South that were growing in the 20th century. The Moss Mystique asks visitors to reconsider their ideas about what makes a place unique. In an adjacent gallery, interdisciplinary artist Raheleh Filsoofi’s new multimedia exhibition (Un)Grounded will respond to the complexities of Newcomb pottery.

100 Days of Purpose – June 1–September 8 (ongoing)
Led by Savannah’s only lifestyle medicine physician and coaching team at Purpose & Plants, this 100-day community wellness challenge inspires simple, daily actions tied to your deeper purpose. It’s free, flexible, and designed to help you reset, recharge, and reconnect. Join the private Facebook group to access all of the free giveaways and resources.
→ Join anytime: https://purposeandplants.com/100-days-of-purpose-1

James Benjamin Franklin has brightly reimagined the conventions of painting through a language of process and discovery. His works incorporate repurposed textiles such as blankets, towels, afghans, clothing, and bathroom mats, creating sensually-layered rafts of visual and physical texture which serve as alternative canvases. These surfaces, in turn, are painted, poured, sprinkled, or sprayed with materials which include acrylic paint, sand and glitter. Whereas traditional canvas can be precious or overbearing, Franklin’s tactile surfaces are liberating and playful. They allow open experimentation where his visual lexicon and studio methods can evolve or reinvent themselves.

Franklin’s paintings are housed in handcrafted plaster-molded frames, each one with a unique geometry. Irregular shapes complement and contain the playful chaos of the many-layered painting surfaces. His process of discovery explores how specific media become more meaningful when applied to textiles and other found surfaces. His work is experimental in the best sense of that oft-used expression: it deploys intentional, rigorous investigation while learning from each new result.

The finished pieces suggest an artist who relishes surprise at the unexpected while discovering freedom in technique. This freedom has led Franklin to refine his practice with increasing nuance in shape, edge, color, and texture, and their interactions over time. Ultimately, the artist wishes to communicate something essentially human about the making of his art – the joys of creative experimentation, as evidenced by the work itself.

“There’s an understanding of time that I appreciate,” says Franklin. “You can get a sense of how the art was made, revealing a story or history to the process – the joy, as well as the struggle. Bringing the viewer into the piece and having a shared experience about making and about life.” Creative acts are communicated and felt more urgently than an aesthetics borne of intellectual preoccupations. Within a single work of art, new meanings and additional layers are revealed over time. Franklin’s art is evergreen, relational, and continuously inspiring.

Paintings shown in Visitor feature vivid, bold colors and mark-making, resulting in finishes and atmospheres which are new to Franklin’s body of work. His edges and borders have also evolved, enabling a variety of ways of seeing the painting as an ensemble. The frames create counterpoints to prevailing visual energies which radiate from an alchemical display of pigment, texture, and surface.

The title of the show references a poetic entrance, or visitation, to otherworldly spaces. Franklin is a first-time visitor to Savannah, Georgia, where his work also fills the galleries at Laney Contemporary for the first time. Both artist and audience share an experience of visiting and being visited.

Bio:
James Benjamin Franklin received his BFA from Art Center College of Design, Pasadena, CA in 1999 and his MFA from Cranbrook Academy of Art, Bloomfield Hills, MI in 2017. Recent exhibitions include Cranbrook Museum of Art, Bloomfield Hills, MI; KMAC, Louisville, KY; FRONT International, The Cleveland Institute of Art, Cleveland, OH; Broadway, New York, NY; Museum of Contemporary Art, Detroit, MI; Reyes | Finn, Detroit, MI; and Proyectos Monclova, Mexico City. Franklin was born in Tacoma, WA in 1972 and lives and works in Detroit, MI.

Hours:
Tuesday-Friday, 11-5pm
Saturday, 11-2pm
Free Admission

Après SCAD is headed to Savannah, Ga. This unique getaway, curated by SCAD faculty and staff exclusively for alumni, encourages attendees to activate breakthrough thinking toward personal and professional growth. Join accomplished leaders and like-minded creatives as you leverage your capabilities to make lasting, valuable connections at the university’s flagship location.

Après SCAD is held annually for SCAD alumni and guests looking to revitalize their creative pursuits. Boost your professional network as you glean collective wisdom of high-achieving peers who share your passions for learning, laughing, and creating.

The Bank of America Museums on Us program offers Bank of America, Merrill, and Bank of America Private Bank credit and debit cardholders FREE general admission to 225 cultural attractions the first full weekend of every month.

For the past 25 years, Bank of America has provided access to some of our nation’s greatest cultural experiences and brought new visitors to partner museums. Use the Bank of America Museums on Us Location Finder tool to search for participating cultural institutions. With more than 225 Museums on Us partners in cities across the United States, there is an option for everyone.

Atlanta History Center:
Time is running out to visit Atlanta History Center’s exhibition More than Brave: The Life of Henry Aaron. The exhibition tells the story of Henry Aaron from his time in Mobile, Alabama, to his record-making baseball career and his life as a leader in baseball, business, and charitable causes, featuring images and artifacts from the collections of the Aaron family, Atlanta History Center, the Atlanta Braves, the National Baseball Hall of Fame, Emory University, Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, and personal collections from throughout the United States.

The exhibit is set to close September 7.

Georgia State Railroad Museum:
Located in Tricentennial Park, Georgia State Railroad Museum is a beautiful National Historic Landmark located at the old Central of Georgia Railway Savannah Shops and Terminal Facilities. With a fully operational turntable, you have the chance to explore historic railcars, experience the handcar and go on guided tours. Be sure to check the train rides that run on the hour from 10 a.m. through 3 p.m.

High Museum of Art:
On Saturday, August 2 friends and families of any age can experiment, play, and make art in studio workshops and learn about art on view through gallery tours during Family Saturday. This month, the High is hosting two guest readers (WABE’s Rose Scott and DJ Ree de la Vega) to read books featured in the “Faith Ringgold: Seeing Children” exhibition. Whether you’re joining Toddler Saturday, Studio Sessions or Teen Art Afternoon, there is something for everyone, every month, at the High.

Morris Museum of Art:
The Opry, Summer 1946: Photographs by Ed Clark
The forty photographs in this exhibition were shot by Ed Clark for Life magazine before, during, and after a Grand Ole Opry performance at Nashville, Tennessee’s, famed Ryman Auditorium on a Saturday night in July of 1946.

Asked to document a typical performance, Clark instead concentrated on the attendees—slightly starstruck country people arriving in trucks, a young couple who had driven from Idaho to see their idols, and the long lines of music fans waiting to get inside the unair-conditioned auditorium.

Old Fort Jackson:
Old Fort Jackson is a National Historic Landmark offering daily cannon firings and exciting interactive programs for adults, kids, and families. It features historical weapons demonstrations and interactive programming for families. Daily cannon firings occur at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Pin Point Heritage Museum:
At the Pin Point Heritage Museum located in the old A.S. Varn & Son Oyster and Crab Factory, visitors can experience the Gullah/Geechee culture first hand. For nearly 100 years, the community of Pin Point was quietly isolated on the banks of the Moon River just south of Savannah. Now, you can explore the refurbished museum complex and experience multimedia presentations, exciting exhibits, and unparalleled views of the marsh.

Savannah Children’s Museum:
Located within the Central of Georgia Railway Carpentry Shop, Savannah Children’s Museum features over a dozen exhibits designed to expand the imaginations of children including an exploration maze, a reading nook, and a sensory garden.

Savannah History Museum:
Located in the former Central of Georgia Railway Passenger Depot, Savannah History Museum takes you on a journey through time from Savannah’s earliest days to the present, with unique exhibits and interactive experiences for the family. Exhibits include an early 20th century steam locomotive, archaeological finds from Savannah’s Revolutionary War history, and much more.

SCAD Museum of Art:
Summer Wheat ‘Fruits of Labor’
In Fruits of Labor, Summer Wheat (SCAD M.F.A., painting, 2005) presents six richly textured paintings inspired by Greek mythology, animal archetypes, and astrology. A pair of totemic works featuring fruit–animal hybrids are flanked by multiple large-scale paintings that immerse viewers in a lush, harmonious world. In these scenes, Wheat portrays female figures as nurturers and cultivators lounging post-exertion, entwined with animals often associated with fear yet exuding calm and satisfaction. This new series expands Wheat’s practice of depicting women at work to their well-earned luxuriating that follows, insisting that moments of release, repose, and ease after collective effort are worthy of commemoration.

Saturday, August 2 and Sunday, August 3 (the first full weekend of each month)

Learn something new this month with a visit to these and many more Museums on Us partners in Georgia and across the country:

Atlanta
• Atlanta History Center
• High Museum of Art

Augusta
• Morris Museum of Art

Savannah
• Georgia State Railroad Museum
• Old Fort Jackson
• Pin Point Heritage Museum (Saturdays only)
• SCAD Museum of Art
• Savannah Children’s Museum
• Savannah History Museum

Bank of America believes the arts have a unique ability to connect people and communities and help local economies thrive. Through Museums on Us, Bank of America provides its cardholders with free access to artistic and cultural experiences across the United States at celebrated institutions ranging from art, children’s and history museums to aquariums, botanical gardens, and science centers.

We encourage those interested to use the Bank of America Museums on Us location finder tool to search for participating cultural attractions, understand any applicable Museums on Us admission protocols, and check with museums directly for their operating hours.

Present your Bank of America, Merrill or Bank of America Private Bank credit or debit card along with a photo ID to gain free general admission to any participating institution during the first full weekend (Saturday and Sunday) of each month. Cardholders only; guests are not eligible for free admission. Program excludes fundraising events, special exhibitions, and ticketed shows. Not to be combined with other offers. Museum participation varies.

Just in time for the new school year, Goodwill Southeast Georgia is giving local educators a head start with its 6th Annual Teacher Book Giveaway on Saturday, August 2 from 9 a.m.- 8 p.m. Education is at the core of Goodwill’s mission to transform lives through skills training and employment opportunities. Goodwill Southeast Georgia is proud to support the teachers, school staff, and educators who go above and beyond for their students each year. On August 2, educators with a valid school or homeschool ID can:
-Select 10 free books to take home for their students or classroom
-Enjoy 10% off any additional purchases made that day

Interested participants can find a list of all Goodwill Southeast Georgia locations at www.goodwillsega.org/locations/ or pre-register for the event here: https://www.jotform.com/form/251875404646160 (Offer unavailable at Bit of Blue, the Outlets and Boutique locations)

Train Rides in July are:
Wednesdays-Sundays including Friday, July 4th
Train rides are at 10am, 11am, 12pm, 1pm, 2pm, and 3pm. Schedule and locomotives subject to change, please call ahead. (912) 651-6823

Historic Savannah Foundation and the Davenport House Museum present the Artisan Spotlight Series. The popular series offers engaging, hands-on events at Historic Kennedy Pharmacy and provides a dynamic platform for artists and artisans to share their creative processes with local residents and visitors.

This August, celebrate the craftsmanship behind Savannah’s iconic ironwork in a creative workshop led by local artist and SCAD graduate Hillary Davenport. Participants of all skill levels will be introduced to metalworking in a hands-on, accessible format and learn about the ancient metalsmithing technique known as repoussé. This multi-step technique involves transferring an image onto a thin metal surface to create a three-dimensional design. Drawing inspiration from the decorative ironwork details at the Davenport House, participants will create their own ornamental piece to take home.

All tools and materials will be provided. No experience is necessary to participate in Artisan Spotlight Series workshops. Space is limited, and advance registration is required. To register, please visit davenporthousemuseum.org/public-programs.

The Savannah Police Department’s annual Back to School Bash will provide students in Savannah with FREE book bags and supplies for the coming school year — while supplies last! Join us on August 2 for food, games, and prizes at the Savannah Impact Program building on 2005 Waters. Ave. from 11am to 2pm.

Get ready to elevate your weekends with the best brunch in Savannah. AMP’D is a high-energy rooftop brunch experience, hosted at Electric Moon at the iconic Plant Riverside District in Savannah.

This isn’t your average rooftop brunch — AMP’D brings the vibe with live DJs spinning feel-good tracks, electrifying cocktails, and a bold, flavor-packed menu. Enjoy a dynamic mix of brunch favorites, savory bites, and sweet treats designed to keep the energy high and the weekend alive.

AMP’D is where music, celebration, and unforgettable flavors come together making it the perfect location for any celebration. Whether you’re gathering your crew or just looking for the best brunch Savannah downtown has to offer, join us on the rooftop with sweeping views of the Savannah river.

At AMP’D, brunch in Savannah isn’t just a meal — it’s an experience.

$50 per person includes buffet brunch, bottomless mimosas and a welcome cocktail.

Brunch, Beats & Big Celebrations — Why Amp’d is Perfect for Your Party Crew
Energetic Rooftop Venue: Vibe through your weekend with panoramic views of the Savannah River and city skyline.

Live DJ: Feel the beat all brunch long with our live DJ spinning high-energy tracks to elevate your weekend vibes.

Innovative Brunch Programming: Break out of the ordinary with next-level brunch programming that blends flavor and fun. Think curated cocktails, interactive elements, and something new every time.

Instagram-Worthy Moments: Come for the food, stay for the aesthetic—brunch has never looked this good.

The Greater Savannah Black Chamber of Commerce is pleased to present the Black Business Expo, which will take place Saturday, Aug. 2 at the Hyatt Harborside Ballroom.

A celebration and showcase of local Black, minority, and women-owned businesses, the Expo will feature 50 vendors representing a variety of industries reflecting the diversity of Savannah’s business community. The Expo will also include insightful panel discussions, workshops and keynote presentations. Additionally, there will be art and fashion exhibitions highlighting local creatives and much more.

This event is one of the GSBCC’s signature events and engages locals and tourists alike, spotlighting the Coastal Empire’s thriving business community. In addition to the event happenings, the Expo also presents exciting networking opportunities to connect with entrepreneurs and professionals from several industries.

The Black Business Expo is made possible through partnerships with the City of Savannah, City of Port Wentworth, Savannah Economic Development Authority, East Savannah United, and Hyatt Regency Savannah. All are welcome to attend this free celebration of diversity, economic empowerment and the entrepreneurial spirit.

Black History Tours of Savannah guided by Acclaimed Author and Historian Rita Fuller-Yates

Fridays – Bus Tour @ 12 pm
Saturdays – Bus Tour @ 12 pm & 2 pm
Sundays – History & Soul Food Experience @ 12 pm