Written by: Maggie McLean
For more than 30 years, Mark W. Buyck, Jr. helped shape the South Carolina State Fair through his service on the fair’s executive committee from 1995 to 2025. While many knew him as a respected attorney, community leader, and longtime member of the University of South Carolina Board of Trustees, those involved with the fair and the Fine Art Exhibition knew him as one of its biggest supporters. Buyck passed away in July, leaving a lasting legacy of service to the South Carolina State Fair and support for the arts.
In 2025, the fair proudly renamed the exhibition the Mark W. Buyck, Jr. Fine Art Exhibition to honor the man whose passion for the arts and decades of service helped shape the program into what it is today.
“Naming the exhibition in his honor is a fitting tribute to a man whose dedication left a lasting impact on the South Carolina State Fair,” said Nancy L. Smith, general manager of the South Carolina State Fair.
Throughout his years of service, Buyck believed that art deserved a prominent place at South Carolina’s largest annual event. He continually encouraged fair leadership to invest in the exhibition’s growth and visibility, helping elevate both the quality and reputation of the show. His vision contributed to the exhibition’s recognition as one of the premier fine art competitions in the region.
Buyck also played an important role in expanding opportunities for artists and increasing the visibility of the Fine Art Exhibition. He encouraged fair leadership to continue investing in the department, helping it grow in size and reputation over the years. His support contributed to programs and events that connected artists with fairgoers and highlighted the talent on display throughout the exhibition.
Among the initiatives he helped promote were the Artist of the Day program and the Fine Art Preview Party. He believed artists should be recognized for their work and provided opportunities to share their creativity with the public. He also championed a process that allows fairgoers to purchase exhibited artwork directly from the artists. Any artist entering the exhibit can choose to sell his or her work, and all proceeds go directly to the artist. Through Buyck’s leadership and vision, the Fine Art Exhibition continued to evolve into one of the fair’s premier competitive exhibits.
Buyck’s commitment extended beyond established artists. He recognized that the future of the arts depends on encouraging the next generation. He was a strong advocate for student participation and supported efforts to expand youth art opportunities at the fair. By investing in student exhibits and encouraging young artists to enter competitions, he helped ensure that creativity and artistic expression would continue to thrive for years to come.
As the exhibition grew, so did its reputation. Today, the Fine Art Exhibition is recognized not only for its growing number of entries, but also for the exceptional quality of artwork on display. Professional and amateur artists alike contribute pieces that reflect extraordinary talent, creativity, and craftsmanship. Those involved with the exhibition often note that Buyck cared deeply about both the quality of the artwork and the way it was presented, always striving to make the experience better each year.
“His passion for fine art, commitment to artists and belief in the power of creativity helped transform the exhibition into one of the fair’s premier attractions,” Smith said.
As visitors explore the Mark W. Buyck, Jr. Fine Art Exhibition, they are experiencing more than a collection of artwork. They are witnessing the legacy of a leader who believed that art enriches communities, inspires future generations, and deserves to be celebrated. Through this exhibition, Mark W. Buyck, Jr.’s passion for the arts and commitment to excellence will continue to inspire artists, fairgoers, and future generations for years to come.
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