Robert Lange Studios | 11/1-11/29 | Charleston, SC

Twenty Years Strong

Robert Lange Studios hosts a celebratory 20th anniversary exhibition.

This fall, Robert Lange Studios is celebrating a milestone 20th anniversary with a special exhibition aptly (and succinctly) titled Twenty. The month-long show, which runs November 1 to 29, will feature 50 esteemed artists, each creating an original 24-by-24-inch painting.

Artists featured in the show include gallery owner Robert Lange, as well as Nathan Durfee, Anthony Waichulis, Julie Beck, Megan Aline, June Stratton, Erik Johnson and more.

Julie Beck, Ghost in the Machine, oil on panel, 24 x 24"

“Reaching our 20th anniversary is nothing short of magical, and I have to say, it’s a milestone that feels just as surreal as some of the art we’ve had the pleasure of showcasing over the years,” says Lange. “This celebration isn’t just about marking two decades of being in the art business— what makes this anniversary so special is the incredible community that has surrounded and supported us.”

Lange discusses the value of the relationships the gallery has built with its artists and collectors over the years. “[Our artists have] trusted us with their visions, and in return, they’ve allowed us to share in the magic of their creations. Watching their work inspire and connect with so many people has been the greatest joy,” he says. “As for our collectors, who have not only kept us in business but have also fueled the dreams of our artists, we are endlessly grateful.”

Robert Lange, Carriers of the Light, oil on panel, 24 x 24"

Durfee pairs his illustrative style with graffiti artist Patch Whiskey in a collaborative piece titled Dreaming in the Patchwork. The painting depicts one of Durfee’s signature stylized characters with oversized heads, wearing a mask decorated by Whiskey. “The shut eyes and solid posture create a balance of strength and serenity,” says Durfee. “Patch Whiskey, decorating the mask and clothing with his iconic characters, brings boldness to the serene piece. Our distinct styles and color choices complement each other. The gallery has had a spirit of cooperation and collaboration, and it seems only fitting to work with another artist for the occasion.”

Megan Aline, Twenty, acrylic on panel, 24 x 24"

A bird skeleton and a nest with eggs are propped up on a stack of old books in Waichulis’ dark and moody still life Ideation. “It might seem a bit odd that the inspiration for this piece was, in fact, found in the struggle for the ‘right idea’ for such a special exhibition. Yet, that’s exactly how this composition unfolded,” says the artist. “Ideation is the process or practice of generating and developing ideas. I took some metaphorical liberty with the concept, viewing it through the language or lens of the vanitas, to communicate this process as a life cycle. Every day, countless new ideas are generated, evaluated, refined and discarded—often with the arrival of new insights. There is a fascinating beauty to be found at every stage of this cycle, and I hope viewers will enjoy exploring the symbols and metaphors of each stage throughout the piece.”

Anthony Waichulis, Ideation, oil on panel, 24 x 24"

Beck brings an oil to the exhibition titled Ghost in the Machine, a piece that explores concepts of mortality, identity and our connection to the universe. “Contemporary discussions about parallel universes, artificial intelligence and simulated realities reflect our collective curiosity about existence. Alongside these, we face personal challenges related to identity, mortality and growth. Drawing from surrealist traditions, the painting blends classical symbols with spiritual and scientific themes, creating a dream-like atmosphere that invites reflection on the mysteries of existence,” says Beck. “I’m honored to have had the opportunity to exhibit alongside some of my longtime heroes within these gallery walls over the past few years.” —