This April, we celebrate Cathy Therrell as one of our Artists of the Month at Art on the Square Gallery. There’s a quiet reverence in the work of Cathy Therrell—a sense that each image is less a photograph and more a pause in time, gently held and shared. Based in the Lowcountry, Cathy’s journey into photography has been anything but conventional, and all the more meaningful because of it.
Raised in Summerville, SC
Born in Bangor, Maine, Cathy found her way to Summerville as a child when her father was stationed there with the U.S. Air Force. That early relocation planted the seeds for a lifelong connection to the region’s lush landscapes and coastal beauty. But it wasn’t until after a remarkable forty-year career as a Registered Nurse that Cathy fully stepped into her artistic calling.
From Nursing to Photography
Returning to school later in life, she earned an Associate Degree in Applied Science in Commercial Graphics—Photography, graduating at the top of her class at age sixty. She’s had additional training by Charleston Center for Photography and Carolina’s Nature Photography Association.
Those achievements speak to Cathy’s spirit: disciplined, curious, and deeply committed to growth. Since then, she has continued to refine her craft through specialized courses and by immersing herself in a vibrant community of fellow artists and mentors.
Moments in Time
Cathy describes her work simply as capturing “moments in time”—but what she captures is anything but simple. A roseate spoonbill feeding her young, a fleeting burst of sunrise, the stillness of a marsh at dawn—these are not staged or manufactured scenes. They are real, observed, and honored. Her approach to editing reflects this philosophy. Rather than altering reality, she makes only minimal adjustments, preserving the authenticity of what she has witnessed.
Inspiration in Faith
Faith plays a central role in Cathy’s work. For her, time spent in nature is both creative practice and spiritual experience. She speaks of “walking with her Creator,” finding peace and renewal in the quiet observation of the natural world. That sense of peace radiates through her photography—bright, sparkling, and deeply calming.
Photography Rooted in Patience and Presence
Cathy ventures out with intention, knowing that nature does not always cooperate. Sometimes she returns with extraordinary images; other times, simply with a sense of connection. Either outcome holds value. When she does capture that “perfect” moment, she knows the work is complete—not because it is flawless, but because it faithfully reflects what she felt.
The Great Balancing Act
Cathy’s art is also deeply personal in another way. She balances her creative life with caregiving—supporting her 86-year-old mother and helping raise her young grandsons. Even in these responsibilities, art remains intertwined with daily life. She shares her work with her mother as it evolves, creating moments of joy and pride that mirror the emotional resonance she hopes her collectors experience.
And that emotional connection is, perhaps, the heart of her work. Cathy treasures the moments when a collector sees one of her photographs and is transported—back to a place they’ve been, a memory they’ve cherished. When someone tears up at the sight of a familiar landscape, she knows she has succeeded.
A Member of the Summerville Arts Community
As a member of the Art on the Square Gallery, Cathy values the spirit of mentorship and camaraderie among artists. It’s a place where knowledge is shared freely, friendships are formed, and creativity is continually nurtured.
The Lowcountry is famously filled with incredible subjects and beautiful scenes to photograph. Among Cathy’s favorites are Magnolia Plantation and Gardens (off Ashley River Road) and landmarks in Charleston, South Carolina.
The Thrill of the Capture
If you ask Cathy what keeps her going—despite physical challenges or the unpredictability of nature—she’ll tell you it’s the thrill of capturing “a winner photograph.” That single image, filled with light and life, renews her energy and reminds her why she began photography in nature.
The Thrill of the Capture
Cathy’s photography pieces range widely in size and format, from small, giftable items like greeting cards and coasters to large-scale works printed on canvas, metal, glass, and more.
Prices for Cathy’s items range anywhere from $10.00 to $700.00, depending on the size and print media. Each piece carries the same intention: to bring a moment of beauty, peace, and reflection into the viewer’s space.
Visit us this April at Art on the Square Gallery to experience Cathy’s color-rich work in person—and perhaps find a piece that speaks directly to you.
In a fast-moving world, Cathy Therrell invites us to slow down. To notice. To remember. And above all, to not only see—but to feel--the beauty that has been there all along.