University of South Carolina Libraries
McKissick Museum: cornerstone of art, culture by Kevin Langston Journalism Senior Serving as the geographical centerpiece of the University of South Carolina’s Horseshoe, the McKissick Museum also serves as the centerpiece of the university’s celebration and art and culture. McKissick Museum’s art collections range from some of the finest examples of regional folk art to one of the most extensive natural science collections in the Southeast. Quilts, ceramics and baskets illustrate the rich traditions of South ern craftsmanship, while the museum’s historical collection contains artifacts detailing the region’s cultural and political heritage. The decorative and fine arts collections are composed of art glass and poetry, paintings, drawings and works on paper. As a university museum, McKissick also holds pieces relevant to the academic and social history of USC since the school’s founding in 1801. In addition to its role as an art center, McKissick offers educational programs throughout the year that provide opportunities for both adults and children to explore the rich cultural and natural history of the Southeast. Either through the annual “Fall Fblklife Festival,” “McKissick Mornings”_summer camps for young people, lectures, symposia or workshops, people are sure to find the program that suits their inter ests. The exhibitions program is based on the latest scholarship and research, providing the university and the greater Columbia area with 10 to 15 exciting presentations each year. Focused on the art, material culture, history and natural history of the Southeast, McKissick Museum’s past exhibits have ranged from early 19th century pottery to a multicultural view of the natural his tory of the South from 1560 to 1860. The museum’s exhibits take a broad, interdisciplinary view, demonstrating the diversity and richness within the South’s artistic, cultural and natural heritage. The museum’s Folklife Resource Cen ter was created in 1985 as a repository for vi sual, audio and printed fieldwork document ing Southern folklife. Since that time, several major studies of the region’s folklife have been conducted. Traditions surveyed include sweet grass and split oak basketry; bluegrass and gospel music; quilt making; African-Ameri can celebrations; alkaline-glazed, Catawba and Jugtown pottery; as well as net-making and iron working. All materials housed in the Folklife Resource Center are available for re search and educational purposes. McKissick Museum’s diverse calendar of events offers a wide-range of volunteer op portunities in which their volunteers put their expertise to work, meeting interesting peo ple and gaining knowledge along the way. No formal training is necessary, only the desire to share their time. The McKissick Museum has garnered a reputation for hosting friendly and stimulat ing gatherings throughout the year. Contact the museum at 777-7251 for more informa tion. Photo By Sean Rayford The McKissick Museum actually served as library for USC before the construc tion of the Thomas Cooper Library. Apply now to join our team! The Russell House University Union has positions available for the 2000-2001 academic year for undergraduate students. Our positions are among the top paying jobs on campus and provide opportunities to meet more people, to learn more about your university, and gain excellent work experience! Approximately 35 positions available during Fall and Spring: - Building Attendant - Information Center Attendant - Theater Projectionist - Graphics Designer Student applicants must exhibit: - a tremendous work ethic - a very positive attitude - a willingness to learn - a personable nature Work study is preferred, but not required. For more details, contact us at 777-3196 or stop by the Information Center in the 2nd floor lobby of the Russell House! 6ET MVOlUl! I (JSC Student Government Student Senate Executive Cabinet Freshman Council University Committees Pick up an application in Russell House room 110 Phone: 777-2654 • Email: stgou@guim.sc.edu Http://u> uuu.sa.sc.edu/sga/sg.htmJ