Craft along the Coast
March 28, 2025 - Ongoing Telfair AcademyPeople in Savannah and the greater coastal Georgia and South Carolina region have handcrafted objects for generations to fill the needs of furnishing their homes, pursuing new artistic endeavors and creating products to sell in a range of markets. For this reason, these works often incorporate locally available materials and reflect many cultural values. They offer a range of insights into the history of artmaking in this area.
The new Craft along the Coast galleries feature works from Telfair’s permanent collection that date from the 18th to the late 20th centuries. Gallery 1 presents examples of woodworking, ceramics, and painting, while Gallery 2 focuses on Savannah’s silversmithing traditions. Both galleries tell stories of markets and craft legacies, helping to draw lines of continuity through a dynamic history.
This installation is curated by Harry DeLorme, director of education and senior curator; Elyse D. Gerstenecker, PhD, curator of decorative arts; and Ahmauri Williams-Alford, assistant curator of historical interpretation.
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Vernon Edwards (1940–1999); Harriet Tubman (1820–1913), 1982; mahogany and paint; museum purchase, 1997.22.1.
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Makers once known, possibly Savannah, GA; Sideboard, late 18th to early 19th century; mahogany and maple veneers, pine, poplar, and brass; attributed to the bequest of Mary Telfair, 1875.18; 2024 conservation sponsored by the Friends of the Owens-Thomas House.
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Mark of Humphrey P. Horton (d. 1865; active 1850s); Fish slice,1856; silver; gift of James A. Williams, 1968.18.85.
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Mark of Ebenezer Whiting (1735–1794, active in Savannah 1786–1788); Handle of punch ladle, 1786–1788; silver; gift of Mr. E. Descombe Wells, OT1961.31.
