The South Carolina State Museum will debut a new portrait series, When I See Myself, I See… by artist Natalie Daise, on Friday, September 26.
Presented in collaboration with South Carolina Educational Television (SCETV) and Voorhees University’s GEAR UP program, the exhibition pairs Daise’s work with original artwork and essays by South Carolina youth.
“This new exhibition highlights the voices and potential of young people in our state,” said State Museum Executive Director Amy Bartow-Melia. “The exhibition gives visitors a moving experience that reflects the museum’s commitment to education and community.”
The series captures the creativity, dreams, and lived experiences of 21 Voorhees University GEAR UP students. Daise interviewed South Carolina middle schoolers about their aspirations, fears, and hopes for the future. Their stories, reflected in her portraits, showcase the impact of the GEAR UP program in expanding educational opportunities and inspiring dialogue about the challenges today’s youth face.
“When students see their potential, they create their future while gearing up for the next level of excellence through Voorhees University GEAR UP,” said Project Director Tiffany Leaf.
Alongside the portraits, visitors can experience student-produced interviews on topics such as pop culture, family history, mental health, and peer pressure. Produced by SCETV, these videos, together with student artwork and interactive elements, add depth and context to the exhibition.
“SCETV is honored to partner in this initiative and to help amplify the voices of South Carolina’s youth,” said SCETV President and CEO Adrienne Fairwell. “Projects like When I See Myself, I See… remind us of the importance of listening to young people and creating platforms where they feel valued and supported.”
Daise, known nationally as co-star of the Emmy-nominated Nickelodeon series Gullah Gullah Island, has more than three decades of experience as a storyteller, educator, performer, and visual artist. Reflecting on the project, she said: “These students trusted me with their stories and dreams. Creating their portraits felt like an act of worship. They are brave, brilliant, and beautiful—each a work of art. In a hard season of my life, they gave me hope. I’m honored to have met them.”
When I See Myself, I See… is included with museum membership or general admission: $13 for adults, $11 for seniors, and $10 for children ages 3–12 (free for children 2 and under). The museum is open Tuesday–Saturday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m., and Sunday, noon–5 p.m.
