On the passing of Ian J. Welch
Artist, educator passes—but wasted no days
Official Statement from the S.C. Arts Commission
The South Carolina Arts Commission notes with profound sadness that Hampton County artist and educator Ian J. Welch passed away Saturday, July 4.
Welch, even after a diagnosis of advanced pancreatic cancer, took up and personified the mantra “no wasted days.” During and despite intensive treatments, he continued a legacy of giving back to his adopted community. He was 39.
Welch famously spurned a position as assistant professor of art and the FAB Gallery manager at South Carolina State University to become an elementary art teacher in rural Hampton County, positively affecting several young lives with his infectious spirit and pronounced artistic talent. An artist entrepreneur, he also owned and operated Pegboard Press.
The Ohio native nonetheless reflected the best of South Carolina in many ways. In recognition of his many contributions to our state, he was just this spring presented the South Carolina Governor’s Award for the Arts in the special award category, which originates from the SCAC’s board of commissioners. Because of ongoing illness, Welch’s partner Emily Barger accepted the award on his behalf.
The SCAC extends warm condolences to Emily and Welch’s other surviving family and friends with gratitude for a selfless and generous life well lived. According to his obituary, a celebration of his life is to be held Wednesday, July 22 at 11 a.m. in the gymnasium at Hampton Intermediate School (505 Hoover St. S., Hampton).
