Greenwood, S.C. — Celebrating Excellence in Art Education
In an exciting development from Greenwood, Doug L. McAbee, an esteemed art professor at Lander University, has been recognized as the best college art educator in South Carolina for 2024! The South Carolina Art Education Association (SCAEA) honored him with the Higher Level Art Educator of the Year Award, marking another milestone in his impactful career.
McAbee’s remarkable contributions have not only earned him this significant award but also applauds from his peers across the state. Being a true advocate for the art profession, his passion extends beyond university walls. He actively engages with high school educators and students through workshops designed to prepare and inspire the next generation of artists.
An Educator Committed to Community
“I am honored to be nominated by such a great group of South Carolina art teachers,” McAbee humbly shared. His commitment goes beyond normal teaching duties, as he spends considerable time offering “advice about building their art curriculum” to teachers, further connecting academic pathways between high schools and higher education.
His workshop leadership for high school students is aimed at strengthening the art community. Such initiatives help promote “our amazing studio degrees to art teachers in the state” and, hopefully, attract high-caliber students to art programs at Lander University. McAbee speaks warmly of SCAEA members, saying they are “some of the best and most vibrant K-12 art teachers,” whose support means the world to him.
Trailblazing in Art Education
With an impressive background, McAbee’s career is filled with accolades and artistic achievements. He has authored several publications and exhibited his skill in sculptures, paintings, and drawings. His talents have been recognized at various juried competitions and through significant public art commissions throughout South Carolina.
McAbee’s academic journey is rooted at Winthrop University, where he completed his bachelor’s in art and furthered his studies with a master’s degree in fine arts. This solid educational foundation laid the groundwork for a career dedicated to enriching art education.
Getting Involved and Celebrating Achievements
The SCAEA award underscores McAbee’s dedicated role in advancing visual arts education — a critical mission aligned with the goals of their parent organization, the National Art Education Association (NAEA). The NAEA is committed to connecting educators, providing resources, and inspiring creativity to fulfill our human potential and promote global understanding.
The news comes as Lander University prepares for its popular, Puppet Parade, a colorful annual event showcasing McAbee’s Sculpture 1 students. The celebration symbolizes the thriving art and culture scene, ensuring that the arts remain a vigorous component of college life.
Engagements for the Artistic Community
A multitude of events this December promises a festive atmosphere across Greenwood and surrounding areas. From holiday workshops to parades, the region bursts with joyous anticipation. Activities range from a sleigh-worthy Santa Stroll 5K to Christmas market gatherings, offering something for everyone.
Additional creative workshops, community gatherings, and craft events like the DIY Holiday Door Hanger and the Christmas Tree Dough Bowl Candle classes invite locals to engage in holiday cheer. Such events not only boost community spirit but also highlight the incredible talent and creativity rooted within the region.
These initiatives, alongside academic achievements, showcase the vibrant, interconnected Artistic scene thriving in and around Greenwood. With dedicated educators like Doug L. McAbee at the helm, the art community eagerly embraces the future with optimism and pride.
