South Carolina has an incredibly rich history of producing great artists. Among the many in the ranks are Kristin Davis, Dizzy Gillespie, Jasper Johns, Eartha Kitt and Andie McDowell.  The Elizabeth O’Neill Verner Awards are given each year by the South Carolina General Assembly to honor individuals and organizations who represent and maintain the state’s rich arts heritage.  In 2009, due to (ahem) budget cuts by another branch of state government (ahem ahem, cough cough… not going to make a political statement, NOT going to make a political statement), the Verner Awards were cancelled, and no accolades were given.  Not only was the luncheon in honor of the recipients called off, but so was the presentation in the chambers of the South Carolina State House (cough cough ahem).

Elizabeth O'Neill Verner Award Lifetime Achievement honoree Pat Conroy

The South Carolina Arts Commission is absolutely thrilled to have once again been given the green light in showcasing the people who help us understand our history, elevate our views of beauty, and aid us in digging deeper into our minds and emotions. The honors are back and better than ever on May 6, when the awards will once again be given in the Chambers and will include Lifetime Achievement Awards given to author Pat Conroy and painter Jonathan Green.  Afterwards, instead of the usual (and fabulous) luncheon, there will be an evening event at the Columbia Museum of Art featuring an art auction featuring works by some of South Carolina’s finest artists.  For a ticket price of $50, guests will be able to mingle among some of the region’s most talented minds and bid on absolutely beautiful things.  For more information and to order tickets, click here.

Elizabeth O'Neill Verner Award Lifetime Achievement honoree Jonathan Green

Jonathan Green; Beach Dance; image from avisfineart.com

Will I see you there? You’ll be hearing more on this from me!