Island School Council for the Arts

Founded in 1971, the Island School Council for the Arts has funded nearly $2 million to support arts programs in our local schools and has made a significant contribution to the growth and strength of arts education programming in the area.

ISCA began life as the “Island School Council” when a group of parents, administrators and teachers committed to raise monies to provide educational opportunities not otherwise provided for by county, state or federal educational dollars. Initially the profits from the Island School Council’s numerous fund-raising events supported not only arts education, but the needs of public schools. In 1998, the mission of the organization was modified to focus primarily on arts education and was renamed, “Island School Council for the Arts”, to reflect this change. In 2006 ISCA began to serve not only the public school students but also the students who attend private, parochial or who are home schooled.

The first large fundraiser, An Evening of the Arts, was held in 1981. For over 25 years the annual event had showcased the works from local and regional artists which are auctioned off at an auction gala. October 2005 marked the 25th Anniversary of An Evening of the Arts, record revenues were raised that year.

In 1986 the Island School Council received the prestigious Verner Award given by the Governor of South Carolina for outstanding achievement in promoting arts education.

The Promising Picasso Student Art Exhibition began in 1993. This exciting gallery event features exceptional student work and is open to the public. One of the most ambitious endeavors of ISCA is the Arts in Education program which brings professional artists into the classroom to work hands-on with students.

In 2007 ISCA brought “public art” into the classroom and community. Internationally recognized, artist Patrick T. Dougherty was commissioned by ISCA to build an outdoor sculpture, Bend Art Into Nature, on the Village Green at Palmetto Bluff (Resort), in Bluffton, SC. During a month long residency in March 2007, students were brought to the site and spent hands on time with the artist building and learning about the concept of public art. The installation which remained on display until spring 2008 was explored, experienced and enjoyed by not only students but the community as well. ISCA presented this project with the partnership of Palmetto Bluff and was funded by the Town of Blufton and an award from the National Endowment for the Arts.

Island School Council continues to explore new ways to further its mission to bring excellent arts education programming to our local students to enhance their overall educational experience.