May Artist of the Month: John A. Rhodes

Local Art at The Mercantile

During the month of May, we hosted our first Merc Home Gallery artist reception. We gathered with wine, a charcuterie board & friends to celebrate local art in our community.

About the Artist

John A. Rhodes is a mixed media artist, art educator, and native South Carolinian. Combining paint, textiles, and embroidery, he draws inspiration from his life as a liberal gay man living in the conservative south, cultural awareness, and his interest in the occult, supernatural and paranormal. He is passionate about social justice, especially issues surrounding the LGBTQIA+ community. In his role as a digital design and photography teacher, he hopes to instill an appreciation of art in future generations, show students that art and design are for everyone, and help students find their voice through visuals. John is a double alumnus of Winthrop University with a Bachelor’s in Fine Arts and a Master’s in Art Education. When he is not creating or teaching, you can find him nerding out to video games, comics and podcasts, or going on adventures with his nephews.

Learn more about our Rotating Gallery

The Mercantile loves hosting local art in both our stores. We frequently feature the beautiful creativity that lives in our community. Stop by The Mercantile to see our rotating gallery, local art, and learn more about the artists we showcase in the store.