What Would Natalie Do?

If you’re seeking more cultural opportunities on Hilton Head Island, Natalie Harvey suggests you look at what’s happening: “Click on CultureHHI. org [for event listings and a cultural trail map]. Pick one thing that’s not in your normal view. Put a list on your refrigerator. This year, I would like to…”

SUGGESTIONS:

• Attend a live music event or free concert

• Visit the Coastal Discovery Museum (it’s not just for tourists)

• Take in a performance at the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina

• Go to a play at Main Stage Community Theatre

• Peruse local art at the Art League Gallery

• Experience the sculpture trail at Shelter Cove Community Park

• Find the poetry trail

• Sign up for a turtle talk

• Take a nature walk/guided tour

• Attend a festival

• Participate in the Lantern Parade

• Picnic or take a walk at a local park

• Sign up for a Gullah Heritage Tour

• Visit historic cemeteries or churches

“You can’t do it all, so don’t be overwhelmed,” Harvey advised. “Pick one thing a month and expand your definition of culture.”

After graduating with a BA in art history, she attended grad school at the University of South Carolina, earning her master’s degree in public history with a concentration in historic preservation. She wrote her thesis on the history of Hilton Head Island between the Civil War and pre-bridge.

Next, she returned to Hilton Head for an internship at the Coastal Discovery Museum and, lucky for us, never left. She has lived and breathed our local culture since.

In addition to her day job, Harvey currently serves on the Arts Council of Hilton Head Island, where she has held several leadership positions, the Hilton Head Audubon board, and the Beaufort County Historic Preservation Review Board. As a former chair of the Arts and Cultural Council of Hilton Head, she helped lead the organization in creating Crescendo, an annual celebration of arts and culture on Hilton Head Island.

When she’s not working, you’ll find her practicing what she preaches—attending local and regional arts and cultural events. She also enjoys birdwatching in her backyard and traveling. 

ARTICLE BY LESLEY FRANCIS