Oceanfront Art Haven: The Franklin G. Burroughs-Simeon B. Chapin Art Museum in Myrtle Beach
The Franklin G. Burroughs-Simeon B. Chapin Art Museum is a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts in Myrtle Beach, providing a serene escape even on the sunniest days. Housed in the historic Springmaid Beach Villas, it has welcomed the public since 1997.
Best of all, admission is free for everyone. The museum boasts 11 galleries featuring rotating exhibitions of diverse artworks, including paintings, textiles, sculpture, photography, video, ceramics, assemblage, collage, and more. Renowned past shows have showcased masters like Ansel Adams, Frank Lloyd Wright, Norman Rockwell, John James Audubon, and Jasper Johns, alongside regional talents such as Jonathan Green and Brian Rutenberg.
With regularly changing exhibits, repeat visitors always find fresh inspiration. Elevate your experience by attending opening receptions, docent tours, or lectures. The museum also offers a charming tea room with panoramic Atlantic Ocean views and a gift shop stocked with unique, one-of-a-kind items perfect for souvenirs.
The museum earned the State of South Carolina’s prestigious Elizabeth O’Neill Verner Award for Outstanding Arts Organization, affirming its vital role as an innovator, supporter, and advocate for the arts in the Myrtle Beach community.
A key recent addition is the Lineta Pritchard Pottery Studio, which held its grand opening on Sunday, April 8. This state-of-the-art space includes six pottery wheels, hand-building areas, glazing and cleaning stations, and a kiln room. Offering small class sizes, experienced instructors provide personalized guidance to students aged 16 and up, helping all skill levels refine techniques. Public classes are available.
A standout past exhibition was “Making Waves: A Drew Brophy Retrospective,” on view from June 23 to September 16, 2018. Myrtle Beach native and internationally acclaimed surf artist Drew Brophy, with 25 years of professional experience, had his expansive career celebrated through painted surfboards—among the world’s most coveted.
The exhibit’s opening on Saturday, June 23, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., featured a vibrant community festival with art, music, food, vendors, workshops, and a special appearance by Brophy. For current details and to plan your visit, explore www.myrtlebeachartmuseum.org.
