Touring Governor's School of Arts and Humanities

The S.C. Governor’s School for the Arts and Humanities radiates its glow and vibes.  It is such a special place that it makes tourists feel special too, if but a moment, say, during your brief tour.

It has been conceived and brought into reality. A school where all of the most talented high school students from across the state converge in the heart of downtown Greenville, across from the Reedy River and the Grand Bohemian Lodge and within walking distance of Falls Park and Fluor Field.

The South Carolina Governor's School for the Arts and Humanities in Greenville, South Carolina is located on 8.5 acres. 

Explanation

• The school is a public, residential high school that serves gifted students from across the state. 

  
  

• The school offers pre-professional training in dance, drama, creative writing, music, and visual arts. 

  
  

• The campus includes a residence hall, fitness center, Sakas theater, and Smith Recital Hall. 

  
  

• The land was donated by the City of Greenville and Greenville County. 

  
  

• The school broke ground in 1998. 

  
  

• The campus was designed by Freeman & Major Architects. 

  
  

The school is tuition-free, but accepted students pay a non-refundable deposit for the residence hall and a meal plan fee. 

The entrance is welcoming. All are so happy to be here that smiles are spontaneous and frequent.

Talent is bursting out wherever you look. Gifts like these cannot be kept a secret.

This collage is a fitting start, well-placed near the entrance. It whets the appetite for what’s to come.  And how the talented displays do come.

Well lighted corridors lead to pleasant destinations.  Let’s go.

Legislation made this institution happen.

And subsequent support kept the momentum going.

It’s all right if this inviting space makes you want to dance.  No one else is watching.  Do the two-step or some other gyration of your choosing.

Don’t be over-awed by innate talent.  That’s why we’re here.  Marvel, but do not be apprehensive.

They spare no effort to inspire and motivate.  What masterpiece could you produce in this quiet corner?

Is poetry your thing? Have a hand at it here.

Or is this a better view of the action? You can almost hear the dialogue.

Notice the theme of plays playing out before your eyes.

All manner of people witness the birth of a nation. And their descendants survive to recount the story over and over again.

These empty chairs are a reminder that there is a spot for you to support the arts.

Growing boys and girls need to refuel and produce abundantly.

How serious they are.  Study is hard work, productive work. What fine examples they set.

Even the weather cooperates.

Does it seem like 25 years since its inception? My how time flies.

Every campus is adorned with pretty girls.

And you think you’re having a bad day.  What happened to this poor chap? He lost two limbs, not one.

I’m not qualified to comment on subjects beyond my comprehension. If you understand this exhibit, send me a note.

Imagine if your son or daughter had produced works of art like this.

Who thinks like this?

Who found and restored my old bike?

Whether you like oils or water colors, clay or marble, we all have an innate appreciation for beauty and art. We look up in a concrete jungle and see a small flowerpot on a windowsill.

Stunning beauty is all around us. We heartily celebrate it at every turn.