The Story
Hagan Fine Art, a fixture in Charleston’s art scene for over fourteen years, has undergone a transformative renewal under new ownership. This past summer, Wendy Carlin took the helm with a vision to preserve the gallery’s legacy while infusing it with fresh perspectives and innovative ideas that continue to build community through art.
Under Carlin’s leadership, Hagan Fine Art remains committed to its welcoming atmosphere while introducing new artists and expanding its offerings. The gallery will continue to be a place where people connect, and where art is an accessible and immersive experience. The gallery’s mission is focused on presenting vibrant, contemporary works to the Charleston community and beyond. In addition to showcasing emerging artists, Hagan Fine Art is proud to feature both new and established Southern artists.
Carlin brings a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to the gallery. Her career began at Sotheby’s auction house in New York City, where her passion for art deepened. She went on to work with prestigious institutions such as the Judd Foundation in SoHo, Philip Johnson’s Glass House in New Canaan, Connecticut, and Heather Gaudio Fine Art in Greenwich, Connecticut, before relocating to Charleston last year.
“I feel incredibly fortunate to have met Karen and have the opportunity to continue her work in creating a welcoming space for artists and collectors to come together. I look forward to working with the current amazing roster of artists and clients as well as seeking new relationships with collectors and artists from around the world.”
-Wendy Carlin, Owner
The Team
Wendy Carlin, Owner
Starting her art career at Sotheby’s in NYC, Wendy has also worked with artist foundations and galleries predominantly in the Northeast. Now a Charleston resident, Wendy acquired Hagan Fine Art in August 2024. Continuing the goal of bringing collectors and artists together, Wendy has begun to implement her vision for the gallery’s future and looks forward to contributing to the vibrant art community of Charleston for years to come.
What is your first memory of seeing or creating art?
My mother was a bit of an art renegade in the 70s, visiting artists’ studios in lower Manhattan and exposing us to different artistic genres, from painting to dance to music in all forms. I was fortunate to grow up so close to New York City and so much culture. My first visit to the Metropolitan Museum of Art in grade school is my first art memory. Walking up those steps on Fifth Avenue and into a vast world of painting, sculpture, drawings, I was hooked!
Griffith Britton, Gallery Director
With a degree in graphic and web design, Griffith has a sharp eye for color and composition. After four years working with John Carroll Doyle and Gaye Sanders Fisher Gallery, she joined Hagan Fine Art, bringing her expertise and passion to a new audience. She is passionate about helping clients discover the perfect piece to enhance their homes, while also introducing them to emerging contemporary artists to elevate and diversify their collections. Combining her design background with her commitment to personalized service, Griffith thrives on creating meaningful connections between art and collectors.
What is your first memory of seeing or creating art?
My love for art was sparked during my first trip to Paris. I was completely mesmerized by the street artists selling their paintings along the Seine, and knew then that I wanted to be part of the art world.
Michael Oglesby, Manager of Business Development
Michael, a proud South Carolina native, is a self-taught artist whose passion for art and community has fueled his journey as a gallerist. For over two years, he has been a vibrant force in the Charleston art scene, blending his creative vision with a commitment to fostering cultural growth. Dedicated to creating dynamic spaces and meaningful opportunities, Michael aims to elevate both artists and art enthusiasts, enriching Charleston’s reputation as a hub for artistic excellence.
What is your first memory of seeing or creating art?
My first memory of engaging with art was as a child, watching reruns of Bob Ross on PBS. Throughout middle school and highschool I had trouble sleeping so I would often find myself watching his show on Netflix to lull myself to sleep, but eventually I found myself staying up and following along with his tutorials. Using some watercolors I discovered in a drawer at home, I began to branch off from his tutorials and started creations of my own. That experience sparked a deep fascination with creating and appreciating art which has stayed with me ever since.
OPEN
Tuesday - Saturday 10am - 5pm
Monday by Chance or Private Appointment.
125 Church Street in Downtown Charleston, SC
843-901-8124
Submit Your Artwork
If you think your art would fit right in with our fabulous artists, then we'd love to meet you.
We hold open submissions to review full time professional artist submissions.
Our next open submissions is in January 2025.
Please click below to learn more about how to submit your art.