Scapes: Exploring togetherness by way of the tablescape

“Check out work from South Carolina artists Rachael Nerney and Kiah Bellows at this new exhibition from Miller Gallery, Scapes. The show opens on Oct. 2 with a reception from 5-7 p.m. 

Nerney's gouache paintings often celebrate food and Bellows' palette is inspired by the colorful landscapes she encounters. The artists brought in a fresh perspective with photographer Kate Blohm; the artists' used Blohm's photos as a leaping off point for new work.“


When Rachael came to me with this unique idea, I was extremely excited to help bring inspiration to two incredible artists. I always love collaborating with fellow creatives, especially who are friends. Being inside the mind of another creative’s decision process is so fascinating to me. Some seek shape, some enjoy the undertones of fabric, some see clearly, and some explore. This was an exploration in the most natural sense, with an idea, a color palette and prop budget in mind. Seeing mood boards before a project really helps me curate my vision in order to execute their’s. For Scapes, the first decision was color, then shape and pattern. We wanted to create a table scape that not only felt indulgent, but also realistic and approachable. We wanted to have a color story that you can’t really place within a time period. This leaves room for the viewer to place it however feels coziest to them. Within these photos, I wanted to capture a feeling - that joy that comes from simple experiences, like brunch under the palms. That’s the one thing I miss the most this year (besides hugs) is sharing meals with people. I love the community that it envelops, I love the relationships that build through table talk, I love the pleasure of eating other people’s food, and I also love sharing mine with them. I hope that through this work, you experience a place that only closeness can facilitate, even if it’s just for a moment. Visit www.millergallerychs.com to learn more.

Kate Blohm

Kate Blohm

Rachael Nerney

Rachael Nerney

Kiah Bellows

Kiah Bellows

These color palettes and unique interpretations from each artist is incredible. I’m so proud for my work to hang alongside these incredible women. If you love their work as much as I do, make sure to follow them @rachaelnerney @kiahbellowsart @millergallerychs

Have a great week!