Mary Aldwyth Dickman, a celebrated collage artist based in Hilton Head, South Carolina, passed away on April 10 at the age of 90. Known for her inventive and deeply personal mixed media artworks, Aldwyth’s creative journey began in California before her family relocated to South Carolina when her father was stationed at Parris Island.
Aldwyth’s artistic pursuits were shaped by her upbringing on the sea islands, where she was exposed to diverse cultures, including the Gullah Geechee community. This cultural backdrop influenced her artistic vision. She initially studied at the American University in Washington, D.C., before transferring to the University of South Carolina, where she earned a degree in fine arts.
While she began her career focused on painting, Aldwyth eventually transitioned to collage and assemblage art, inspired by the Artists of the Round Table at the Red Piano Gallery in Hilton Head. Her commitment to her craft was evident as she submitted her works to various exhibitions, facing initial setbacks that she channeled into her art. One piece, “We Regret to Inform,” was created using rejection letters nailed to a post, symbolizing her determination in the face of adversity.
Mark Sloan, former curator and director of the Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art, remarked on Aldwyth’s intensity and obsessive dedication to her work. Her pieces often referenced art history, exemplified by significant works like “Twinkle, Twinkle” and the large-scale collage “Casablanca,” which brought together eye motifs from various artistic movements.
Throughout her career, Aldwyth received numerous accolades, including the Eben Demarest Award and the Elizabeth O’Neill Verner Governor’s Award for the Arts. Her works have been included in prestigious public collections, such as the Ackland Art Museum at the University of North Carolina and the Greenville County Museum of Art.
Aldwyth is survived by her son Calhoun “Reb” Thomas III, granddaughters Rebecca Martin and Margaret Horst, great-grandchildren Madi, Tommy, and Wesley, as well as many extended family members.
