At Art on the Square Gallery in the heart of Summerville, award-winning artist Ann Hurst brings a sense of calm, beauty, and luminous storytelling to every piece she creates. Her work—often described as a blend of contemporary, realism and impressionism—invites viewers into moments of peace, joy, and quiet reflection.

Ann’s journey to the Lowcountry is as vibrant as her paintings. Born and raised in Seattle, she spent two decades immersed in the rich colors and culture of Hawaii before ultimately seeking sunnier skies and a new creative chapter in South Carolina in 2022. That transition—from the misty Pacific Northwest to tropical islands, and finally to the golden marshes of the South—has deeply shaped her artistic voice.  

A Late Beginning, A Natural Calling

Though Ann always felt a pull toward creativity, her path to painting wasn’t formal or conventional. Without academic training, she found her way into watercolor through a simple invitation to a class—a moment that quietly changed everything. Under the mentorship of Susan Cardenas, and inspired by artists like Jocelyn Chang, Peggy Chun, and Patrice Federspiel, Ann developed her skills and confidence.

That encouragement led to a solo show and participation in exhibitions with the Hawaii Watercolor Society—milestones that affirmed she was exactly where she was meant to be.

Inspired by Nature, Memory, and Faith

Ann’s work draws from a rich tapestry of influences: the poppy fields of Italy, the vibrant sea life of Hawaii, the textures of the Pacific Northwest, and now the serene marshes and birdlife of the Lowcountry. Blue herons, egrets, cardinals, and even the delicate white ginger flowers in Summerville find their way into her evolving body of work.

Her creative process is thoughtful and intuitive. It begins with research and sketching, then slowly builds—layer by layer—from light to dark. Ann paints deliberately, often stepping away and returning with fresh eyes. “It’s not just technical,” she explains. “It’s a feeling.”

And that feeling is unmistakable: peace, joy, calm, and sometimes a quiet “wow” that lingers long after viewing.

Faith also plays a central role in her work. Many of her most meaningful pieces are grounded in prayer, and her life experiences—working with youth, families, and communities across different cultures—have infused her art with compassion and depth.

Art Within a Full Life

Ann is not a full-time artist by design. Between her family, grandchildren, a microgreens business, and her role at the gallery, she embraces a beautifully full life. When she finds a three-hour window to paint, she dives in wholeheartedly.

This balance gives her work authenticity—it’s created not in isolation, but as part of a life rich with relationships, service, and experience.  When life’s trials take their toll, Ann recognizes the need to take a break.  If artist block persists, she goes for nature walks or art shows, museums and galleries.  Ann knows the creative spark will always resurface, given enough time and space.
 

Teaching and Community

Beyond creating, Ann is passionate about teaching. She offers watercolor courses ranging from beginner fundamentals to more advanced techniques, along with drawing classes newly introduced at the gallery.  In her teachings, Ann is mindful of values, color, and composition, working from light to dark.  Her many, loyal followers are a testament to the strength of Ann’s knowledge and her willingness to share.

Her approach is encouraging and grounded in a simple philosophy: 
“Practice often. Be fearless. And most importantly—be your unique self:  be you!”

A Place to Belong

For Ann, being part of Art on the Square Gallery is more than a professional milestone—it’s a meaningful connection to a creative community. She speaks warmly of the shared journeys among artists and the joy of knowing her work finds a place in people’s homes and lives.

“There is so much talent here!  To be among other artists, to hear their stories and see their work, has been great and inspiring!”
 

She’s especially inspired by Summerville’s growing identity as a cultural arts destination. “I moved to the right place,” she says—and it shows in the way her work is beginning to reflect more local subjects, interpreted through her distinctive, contemporary lens.

“It’s a beautiful town with so much inspiration to create art.  I believe we are here to encourage young and old to delve into the arts and find their own journeys.”

Art for Every Space

From miniature (3” x 3”) original paintings to larger statement pieces, Ann’s work ranges in scale, price, and style—coastal, tropical, contemporary—making it accessible and appealing to a wide range of collectors. 

She also offers fine art reproductions, greeting cards, and bookmarks, extending the reach of her work beyond the gallery walls.

Ann Hurst’s art is, at its core, an invitation—to slow down, to feel, and to remember the beauty in both the extraordinary and the everyday. Whether inspired by distant travels or the quiet charm of the Lowcountry, her paintings reflect a life well-lived: with intention, creativity, and heart.