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Stepping Up For Arts (formerly known as The Artisans of St. James, is a 501(c)3 organization associated with The Artisans.  The goals of this organization is to promote and support the arts in the communities of Brunswick County through art appreciation and educational opportunities.

Scholarships in fine arts are limited and we dedicate ourselves to ensuring that deserving Brunswick County students can pursue their craft.  We have a proud history of awarding multiple annual scholarships so these young adults may continue their studies in any field of art. Grants are provided to Brunswick County schools to help provide an enhanced art program (music, dance, theater and visual arts) for its students through arts supplies and materials, equipment and field trips.  Past donations have been used to purchase specialized software, weaving looms, painting supplies and other art program materials. 

Donor / Corporate Sponsor Program

Private and public donations are an important part of our fundraising effort and we relay heavily on the generosity of our community.  Become a proud sponsor of our program by attending our events and making a charitable donation. Your contribution to Stepping Up For Arts is tax deductible.

Platinum Level - $1000+
Gold Level - $250-$999
Silver Level - $25 - $249

If you would like to donate to Stepping Up For Arts, you may send a check payable to SUFA at:

SUFA
114 S. Howe Street
Southport, NC  28461

​The Artisans encourages the continued development of each artist’s skills, the opportunity to network, to teach and to share knowledge, and provides a means for marketing members’ work. 

Numerous special events are held throughout the year, such as the art walks at the St. James Marina, held the 4th Friday of most fair weather months. We also have started a new event called "Art in the Park" which will be held in May and October in the beautiful Woodlands Parl. Members demonstrate their work at both the art walks and at Art in the Park.  We also find opportunities for special sales events throughout the year.  Ou main event is The Holiday Boutique held in November in nearby Southport.

We hold several workshops throughout the year, some taught by members and some taught by well known regional instructors. We cover a variety of media, watercolor painting, jewelry making, alcohol inks, photography, scrapbooking, and on and on. We poll members for workshop ideas every year!

The Artisans Gallery on Howe  opened in June 2020 at 114 S. Howe in Southport. The Artisans also provide artwork to the St. James Community Center and other locations for display.

Membership is open to all St. James artists and those St James residents who wish to support the arts. ​

​Points of Contact for The Artisans and Stepping Up For Arts

Su Peyton, President      su.peyton@gmail.com 
Karin Elias, Fundraising Chair      karin@elias-assoc.com