3_a dream within a dream within a dream.

The White Gallery

wide beaches, margaritas, and original Warhols might lead oneself to wonder, "Is all that we see or seem but a dream?" but unlike the musing of Edgar Allan Poe's 1849 poem, such indulgences do exist. Sullivan's Island, a short drive from Charleston's downtown, offers all of these things...and, of course, more. as if a day in the sand isnt enough of a treat, walk two blocks to middle street, between stations 22 and 22 1/2 and eat, drink, and be wowed by White Gallery Fine Art's collection.

the porch houses local, contemporary art

operating out of a converted coastal rambler, the gallery uses all possible space to showcase its treasures. the porch is enclosed, but its maintains its historic provenance with grey plank floors and haint blue ceilings. paintings hang along the clapboard exterior walls and are protected from the elements (heat) with subtle windows and plantation shutters that bring this outside space indoors. through the front door hang examples of contemporary art ranging from local start-ups to established masters (think Lichtenstein, Roubanov, Frakenthaler, and of course, Warhol). the White Gallery succeeds in bringing a taste of high-end modern creativity to this little beach-side community.

Poe's Tavern

and you cant go to the White Gallery (or Sullivan's Island, for that matter), without a visit to Poe's Tavern. established as a tribute to the Island's favorite enlistee, this burger bar combines literary reference with lowcounty design. get the mahi tacos and make sure to visit the loo, where the walls are covered with pages from Poe's greatest works. kinda kitschy but undeniably cool. 

the bathroom at Poe's