29 www. ReadMPM. com | www.MountPl easantMagaz i ne. com | www.MountPl easantPodcas t . com grew up in rural North Carolina, majoring in graphic design and minoring in drawing at East Carolina University School of Art. He moved to New York City where he began his career in advertising and design, eventually founding a design company. Horton always aspired to be a painter, and during his 18 years living in New York City, he spent most of his free time exploring and studying its renowned art museums and galleries. He painted on the side whenever the opportunity arose. Horton moved to Charleston in 2001 with his wife and two young children after deciding to devote himself full-time to painting, revisiting his Southern roots. One thing about the Lowcountry’s natural landscapes that sparks his imagination is that the setting changes every day depending on elements such as the tide, the weather and the light. Horton lives in I’On, which abuts Hobcaw Creek, a place where he can regularly observe and draw inspiration. “I’m really obsessed with the way the light affects the landscape — and the clouds,” commented Horton. While he doesn’t consider himself a wildlife artist, he does occasionally include birds and cows (a product of his pastoral North Carolina upbringing) in his work. Horton said he is honored to be a part of SEWE, which provides an invaluable opportunity for his paintings to be exposed to many people who might not normally get to see them. He added that for returning artists it’s almost like a reunion, describing it as a “supportive community.” James Island resident and painter Hilarie Lambert has been a part of SEWE for seven years as well. The former graphic designer and illustrator moved here from the Finger Lakes region of New York 22 years ago. Lambert, who describes her style as contemporary impressionist, enjoys using bold and vibrant colors. Lambert said the Lowcountry is a wonderful place to paint and make a living. “This community is so responsive to original work,” she remarked. The Lowcountry landscapes that inspire her pieces change and evolve depending on the time of year. “Every season has its beauty,” noted Lambert, from the bright and vibrant greens of spring to the golden colors of the marshes in the fall. She also finds fascination with the birds that inhabit our area, from the egrets to the ibises. Lambert gets reference material from visiting places such as Mount Pleasant, Folly Beach and Edisto Island. Lambert even bought a camper that she drives throughout the state to experience the full range of beauty in our landscapes and wildlife that help kindle her creative vision. She looks forward to SEWE every year. “I’m so, so grateful. It’s a great, great show,” raved Lambert. “There are artists from all over the world. It’s just a collection of really cool work.” Horton said SEWE’s organizers do an incredible job with presentation in terms of booths and exhibit displays, comparing it to an elegant art fair. “The people who run it — they’ve done so much for Charleston.” feature “Summer Twi l i ght ” by Mar k Ke l v i n Hor ton .
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