Artist Helen Duckworth’s exhibition “Whispers and Song” opens at the Ellis-Nicholson Gallery during the upcoming Spoleto Festival in downtown Charleston.  The paintings for this show were chosen by Duckworth for the overall feeling of peace:  the baby in it’s  mother’s arms, the lovers in gentle touch or the woman quietly alone.   The predominant  feeling is one of settling down to an inner quiet space, whether in dance, embrace or in solitary contemplation.

Duckworth was born in Yorkshire, England. She began painting as a teenager and emigrated to the United States in the 1960’s. She studied at the Art Students League and the School of Visual Arts in New York City, concentrating on drawing and portraiture. Moving to South Carolina in 1977 she lives close to marshland and rivers which feed her ideas for both her paintings and poetry.

Opening reception is May 31, 5-8 PM and the exhibition can be viewed May 24 – June 30. The gallery is located at 1 ½ Broad Street, Gallery Row on historic Broad Street. 843-722-5353, www.ellisnicholsongallery.com