Mary Brent co-founded the Southern Sampler Artists Colony/SSAC, in 2006. Home based at the Crossroads a small community nestled in the South Carolina sand hills and bordered by Black River Swamp, it was a haven for writers and artists. Workshop participants were offered opportunities to renew their creative spirit, explore fresh approaches to their work, and collaborate on individual and group projects.

In 2009 the SSAC moved to Charleston, South Carolina, the Holy City, and established roots in fertile, Lowcountry soil. Annual retreats, workshops, and two anthologies later, the SSAC is a vital bi-coastal community dedicated to stirring the creative pot and celebrating belonging, southern style!