About the Artist: Cassandra Gillens

May 2025 Issue
About the Cover Artist — Cassandra Gillens
by Lindsay Gifford

Cassandra M. Gillens is a celebrated artist known for her vibrant depictions of Gullah culture and life in the Lowcountry, particularly in the coastal regions of South Carolina. Her work is deeply rooted in the traditions, history, and community of the Gullah people, descendants of enslaved Africans who lived along the southeastern coast of the United States.

Her body of work has gained significant recognition for its aesthetic beauty and cultural importance. Cassandra’s paintings have been widely exhibited in galleries across the United States, and her work is highly sought after by collectors interested in Southern art and Gullah history. She has played a key role in preserving and celebrating Gullah culture, making her an important figure in both the world of art and cultural preservation.

Often recognized for her folk-art style, characterized by its flat perspective, bold colors, and stylized figures, Cassandra’s works are both celebratory and reflective. They offer a window into the resilience and richness of Gullah life and culture while also inviting a broader reflection on Gullah heritage, identity, and community.

For this month’s cover, “Wildflowers” signifies a wondrous beautiful moment for two female souls. This piece ties into some of Cassandra’s favorite Gullah life traditions and themes of togetherness—the importance of family and shared culture.

One hallmark of her artwork is her portrayal of faceless figures, which in turn guides a shift in focus. Cassandra uses bright, bold colors to reflect the warmth and richness of Gullah culture in scenes she creates instead of on specific people. This gives her art pieces timeless, universal relatable qualities, and the power of visual story.

Many of Cassandra’s artworks depict family gatherings such as community members working in the fields, fishing, and weaving sweetgrass baskets. When she features sweetgrass baskets, she honors a traditional Gullah craft that has been passed down through many generations. The baskets are a symbol of heritage, resilience, and the connection between the Gullah people and their African roots.

And much of Cassandra’s work is set in landscapes of South Carolina, often featuring coastal settings, marshlands, and rural life. Lowcountry settings are an integral part of the Gullah identity she skillfully captures in all its serene beauty and historical significance.

Be sure to experience Cassandra Gillens Art Gallery in Beaufort, S.C. Plus, you can also shop for originals and prints on her website www.cassandragillensarts.com.

Cassandra Gillens Gallery:
Gullah Art In De Woods, 1766 Gillens Gray Lane, Beaufort SC.
Website: www.Cassandragillensarts.comEmail This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call (843) 592-4112