WINNSBORO — S.C. Arts Council and McKissick Museum have named Frances Lee O’Neal as a traditional artist in South Carolina. O’Neal has practiced her tradition of storytelling as a unique art form for many years.

She has been involved in creating and supporting arts events and activities in the local community of Fairfield County over the years.

In a letter sent to O’Neal from the S.C. Arts Council it stated: “We want to help you to continue practicing and sharing your traditional art form.”

The S.C. Arts Commission offers programs and grants meant to support the efforts that might be of interest to others in the community.

Programs include the Jean Laney Harris Folk Heritage Award, which is managed by the S.C. Arts Commission and the McKissick Museum.

Artists must be nominated by someone else. They cannot self-nominate.

The award for traditional artists recognizes those who practice art forms that have been transmitted through their families and communities.

These artists have demonstrated a commitment to keeping their tradition alive and in turn used their art to benefit those around them.