Fine Art/Photography
Patrons can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the Fine Art Department in the Cantey Building as they view the works of some of the state’s best amateur and professional artists. Featured categories include ceramics, pottery, aqua painting, oil painting, drawing, mixed media, prints, photography, digital art, open media and sculpture.
On Exhibit Dates: Oct. 12 – 23
Location: Cantey Building
Guests interested in purchasing artwork may complete a Public Interest Sheet, which will be in the Cantey Building. The Public Interest Sheet will be given to the artist at the time of pick up after the fair.
It is up to the artist to contact the person interested to make the sale. Artwork listed as Not for Sale is exempt from public sales. The S.C. State Fair does not negotiate purchases for artwork and is not responsible or liable for any personal transactions.
Student Art
The works of some of the state’s most talented young artists will be on display in the Cantey Building.
Young protégés will enjoy taking in the handiwork of their peers in 2-D, 3-D and photography divisions. This year’s student art will feature Art of the Camellia, which blends art and horticulture to offer an added educational benefit for students in grades K-12.
On Exhibit Dates: Oct. 12 – 23
Location: Cantey Building
Home & Craft
Home arts, such as baking, cake decorating, canning, hobby crafts, quilting and sewing are among the many divisions found in the Moore Building each year as youth and adult exhibitors compete for a coveted blue ribbon.
Special displays, such as vintage bridal fashions or an antique kitchen, are also featured each year during the fair.
On Exhibit Dates: Oct. 12 – 23 Location: Moore Building
SPECIAL CONTESTS:
- Best Party Appetizer Contest — Live judging Oct. 12 at 4 p.m.
- Pumpkin Decorating Contest — Live judging Oct. 16 at 4 p.m.
Ernest Lee Artwork
Street artist and Columbia legend Ernest Lee will be selling his popular chicken paintings as well as other pieces at this year’s S.C. State Fair. While Lee is widely known for his chicken paintings, his works also include ocean scenes, nature scenes, fish, pets, palmetto trees, portraits – and just whatever comes out of his head.
Appearing daily in the smallstock building
Sandscapes
Seventy-five tons of sand! For years, the S.C. State Fair’s talented sand artists have transformed huge piles of sand into creative wonders right before the eyes of patrons. The imagery continues this year as a work-in-progress comes to life over several days. Guests are sure to be amazed as they return to see the progress and final product.
Featured daily in the Goodman Building
Extreme Sculpting
Chris Lantz has been carving since he was 19 and now lives in Northeast Georgia with his wife, two kids and two dogs on two acres. Lantz is a passionate person who cuts no corners in his artistic process. After high school graduation in 2009, Lantz went directly to work and is often asked about his art background; he has none! He has always enjoyed working with his hands and creating things.
Appearing daily in front of the Moore Building.
FolkFabulous
Join McKissick Museum in the Rosewood Ballroom—and occasionally beyond — for another year of FOLKFabulous, where they will gather to share and celebrate the rich folklife, traditional art and cultural heritage of South Carolina. This year’s display and programming will feature the story quilts of Peggie Hartwell, drumming demonstrations by Edisto River Singers, hands-on artmaking with Jugnu Verma, and much more!
Open daily and located in the Rosewoods Building.
Philip Simmons Blacksmith Guild
The Philip Simmons Blacksmith Guild was formed exclusively for educational purposes to encourage and facilitate the training of blacksmiths. The group disseminates information about sources of material and equipment, exposes the art of blacksmithing and serves as a resource for all who are interested in the craft. Guild members participate in several events throughout the year such as Ashley on the River at Magnolia Plantation in Charleston and the Renaissance Fair in Myrtle Beach.
Oct. 14- 16. on Academic Avenue.
