Liz Daly is an original. Many consider her a cultural cornerstone in Greenville. She has pioneered the visual arts into our town by starting anew in seven different locations within 18 years of gallery ownership. A jeweler by trade, she has both designed her own and worked for corporate jewelry stores. But her passion is in creating and bringing artworks to Greenville.
Exclusive Photography: FishEye Studios, Greenville, SC
Liz took the plunge in 1991 to bring the visual arts to Greenville by opening her Liz Daly Design gallery on Main Street where she stayed for 16 years.
The longest stay was 10 years at 421 Main. It’s been an adventure. “We loved our time on Main Street and we were sad when we had to move. Our 100-year- old building was torn down.”
Once she decided she had to move out of downtown she chose the Village of West Greenville as being the next in the path of progress. She was correct. What she couldn’t know was how quickly that progress would catch up. “A lot of artists are losing their studio spaces due to doubling and tripling of rents.”
She recently moved from The Village on the day of the big snowstorm into a space within a 166,000 square foot building, the old GTP Industrial Building on 1801 Rutherford Road.
She’s a good one to watch.
Progress follows her.
The new space will include 3 to 4 classrooms and studio space for hourly rental. She is giving lessons on fusible glass and jewelry making. Glass pendant and wire wrapping classes are offered on Thursday evening and Saturday mornings at 6PM and 11AM respectively. Essential Oils classes are Wednesdays 6pm.
"We also do custom classes, birthday parties and large events."
"We like it here. We have the space to have fun art parties." says Liz, "Our last birthday party was for a 50 year old with 22 guests."
Vodka and Jewlery. The perfect combination.
Liz has been the sole proprietor of all her galleries with 75 product lines in house plus other works from various artists.
Next on her agenda? Liz would like to continue as a participant in Greenville's First Fridays as well as host exhibitions for emerging local artists. The building has a most impressive glass-enclosed gallery space within.
"We plan to collaborate with local artists to host Art Markets here." There certainly is a ton of room both indoors and in the parking area. And what could be better? An affordable and supportive space for working artists who seem to always be looking ahead for the next arts-friendly spot.
Why move out to an industrial building?
“My thought was…I want to have the space so we are back to 2,000 square feet. I'd like to get back to designing jewelry and make my own artwork. Now I can include classrooms!”
“Within the last month 5 new artists have moved into this building. I was the first.” Of course you were, Liz.
You are invited to attend Liz Daly Design's Grand Opening Celebration on Saturday May 6 from 7 to 9PM. Other artists collaborating within Greenville's newest arts community include: Color of Grey Studio, Complete Life Coaching, Fairy Godmother Project, Jaidra DuRant of Niad, Speckled Cakes, Vitti Tile, and Wizard Owl Studios.
Please come and enjoy live music and dance, food, hoop dance party and prizes.
1801 Rutherford Road, Greenville, SC 29609
(864) 325-4445
www.dalydesigns.com
Writer: Lianne LaVoy
