Gray Court Native Jenna Armstrong Featured at Laurens County Museum with Sculptural Art Exhibit Through August 23

The Laurens County Museum is currently featuring an inspiring exhibit by local artist Jenna Armstrong, a Gray Court native whose sculptural works challenge perceptions and celebrate the transformation of industrial materials into approachable forms.

Open now through August 23, the exhibit showcases Armstrong’s unique blend of blacksmithing and welding techniques with soft, organic design—inviting viewers to reimagine metal as something warm, fluid, and almost delicate.

“My work challenges the typical expectations of the materials I use,” Armstrong explains. “Through softer forms, I bring warmth and movement into materials that are usually cold and rigid. Some pieces are functional, while others simply reference function—but each one is a conversation about transformation.”

Armstrong’s journey into the art world began in Laurens County, where she attended EB Morse Elementary, Laurens Middle School, and Laurens District 55 High School. Inspired from an early age by her artistic grandmother, Becky Kirkland, Jenna’s creativity was encouraged and nurtured at home and in school. Her early love for painting and drawing eventually led her to explore graphic design in high school and later in college at the University of South Carolina.

While initially pursuing a degree in graphic design, Jenna discovered her true passion through USC’s sculpture program. “When I began taking my first sculpture classes, it was a turning point,” she said. “Something about physically being able to witness and interact with my art just felt right.”

As she progressed through the program, her focus turned toward metalworking—learning blacksmithing and welding to craft her distinct style. The result is a body of work that feels both sturdy and serene, bridging industrial form and graceful movement.

Armstrong currently works in logistics for a freight brokerage firm and continues creating freelance art on the side, including digital designs and paintings. She is also saving to invest in larger equipment to expand her metalwork practice. Her digital portfolio can be viewed online.

The exhibit at the Laurens County Museum provides a rare opportunity to see Jenna Armstrong’s work in person and experience how art can reframe the way we view even the most common materials.

Location: Laurens County Museum, 116 South Public Square, Laurens, SC
Dates: Now through Friday, August 23
Admission: Free and open to the public

For more information, visit the Laurens County Museum’s Facebook page or stop by during regular museum hours.