SC Arts Commission Press Releases
Governor McNair to be Honored at May 7 Anniversary Celebration
S.C. Arts Foundation will recognize late Governor's role in helping to establish the S.C. Arts Commission
April 22, 2008
Media Contact:
Milly Hough
(803) 734-8698
COLUMBIA, S.C. –During the 40th Anniversary Celebration of the state's leading arts agency the S.C. Arts Foundation will pay tribute to the late Governor Robert E. McNair for his role in creating the S.C. Arts Commission. The event, which takes place at 7 p.m. on May 7 at the Columbia Museum of Art, includes food, entertainment and a silent auction of original works of art by 40 South Carolina artists.
Eager to make cultural and artistic activities more widely available to the citizens of South Carolina, and conscious of the arts impact on economic development efforts, the late governor signed legislation to create the Arts Commission in 1967. It was his vision that the arts "continue to grow and play an ever more significant part in the welfare and educational experiences of our citizens."
"One of Governor McNair's visionary objectives was to ensure a high quality of life and economic vitality for all South Carolinians," says M. William Youngblood, Managing Shareholder of McNair Law Firm. "The members of his law firm are truly pleased to join in celebrating the tremendous impact of his foresight so many years ago. Not only do the arts thrive in South Carolina today, but they continue to have a significant positive influence on our state’s expanding economy."
A study conducted in 2002 and updated in 2006 by the University of South Carolina Moore School of Business found that South Carolina's arts industry produces nearly $2.4 billion in economic output annually. In addition, the industry supports nearly 31,000 jobs throughout the state.
"The Arts Commission helps fuel this industry by providing funding and support to South Carolina artists, arts organizations and communities," said S.C. Arts Commission Executive Director Suzette Surkamer. "Since 1967, the Arts Commission has awarded nearly $50 million in grants.
"Because all Arts Commission grants must be matched locally—usually $2 to $3 for every $1 granted—grants can significantly impact local communities and provide an excellent return on the state's investment," said Surkamer.
In celebration of its 40th anniversary, the S.C. Arts Commission is welcoming former board members and others who have shaped the agency's history to take part in the celebration. The silent auction includes original works of art by some of South Carolina's most celebrated artists. The Arts Commission has recognized these artists through programs such as the State Art Collection, Artist Fellowships and special exhibitions.
For tickets to the 40th Anniversary Celebration, call (803) 734-8696 or visit www.southcarolinaarts.com. The event is hosted by the S.C. Arts Foundation and presented by Carolina First, Blue Cross Blue Shield of S.C. and SCE&G. Tickets are $75 per person.
About SCAC:
The South Carolina Arts Commission is the state agency charged with creating a thriving arts environment that benefits all South Carolinians, regardless of their location or circumstances. Created by the South Carolina General Assembly in 1967, the Arts Commission is celebrating 40 years of increasing public participation in the arts by providing services, grants and leadership initiatives in three areas: arts education, community arts development and artist development. Headquartered in Columbia, S.C., the Arts Commission is funded by the state of South Carolina and by the federal government through the National Endowment for the Arts. For more information, visit www.SouthCarolinaArts.com or call (803) 734-8696.
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