Two years ago, Lowcountry native Mary Beth DiNunzio celebrated her birthday by asking a friend to build a small wooden box. She named it “The Art of Giving,” envisioning it as a place where anyone could pick up free art supplies or leave a piece of their own creativity behind. Located on Atlantic Avenue, near a popular beach access on Sullivan’s Island, this box has become a beacon of generosity and artistic expression.
A Treasure Chest of Artistic Joy
Inside the box, visitors are greeted with an array of art supplies, including watercolors, brushes, seashell ornaments, and even finished pieces of art. The box is not just a collection of materials but a place for shared creativity, where children and adults alike can leave their artwork or take something that sparks inspiration. One visitor left a note, reading, “With hope in our hearts and generosity such as yours, we can surely face this world with artistic flourish.”
The Heart of the Project: Giving and Receiving Art
For DiNunzio, the project is about more than just providing art supplies—it’s about creating a space for connection and inspiration. She explains, “It goes both ways – I’m giving art to them, and they’re giving art back to me. I love sharing with the community and want people to enjoy the art and get inspired.”
The idea has resonated deeply with neighbors. Kerry O’Connor Hood, who discovered the box while visiting the beach, says, “Kids love to paint. Kids love to make anything – it doesn’t even matter what it is.” Inspired by the open invitation to create, Hood has contributed her own additions to the box, including small toys and painting supplies.
A Ripple of Generosity
For DiNunzio, the greatest reward is watching others discover the box and experience the joy of giving and receiving. She says, “I don’t like to receive. I’d rather just give.” Although she spends hours filling the box with seashell ornaments and handmade treasures, the real reward is in seeing the smiles of people who engage with the project.
On a beach where the waves continuously roll in, “The Art of Giving” has created a ripple effect of kindness and creativity. The simple act of sharing art and supplies has become a testament to how small gestures can brighten lives and foster a sense of community.
A Growing Community Effort
What started as a personal birthday gift has blossomed into a local treasure, with the box becoming an ongoing community project that inspires others to contribute. DiNunzio invites others to follow the journey of “The Art of Giving” on Instagram at @theartofgiving4, sharing her passion for art, kindness, and the joy of giving.
As the waves continue to wash ashore, “The Art of Giving” stands as a reminder that generosity, like art, has the power to ripple outward, creating a more connected and compassionate world.
