Oxford arts scene has plenty to offer

Published 11:18 am Thursday, November 17, 2016

It is that time of year again in which there are so many things going on, it is hard for me to cover them all in this column.

This week, I will give you a quick run-down of what to see, what to apply to, and other ways to be involved in the local arts scene.

First off you might want to catch up on some of the local art shows in town. At Southside Gallery, there is an exhibition of work by Drew Galloway, Philip R. Jackson, and Rod Moorhead that will be on view now through Nov.  26.

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Galloway is showing a selection of landscapes on collaged metal and found materials.

Jackson’s more recent works departs from the genre of hyper-realistic still life paintings which has been his signature style for more than a decade.

Moorhead’s exhibited pieces include terra cotta sculpture and copper pieces. The gallery is located at 150 Courthouse Square.

Down the street at Frame Up Basement Gallery at 125 Courthouse Square, you can get a peek at work from Nancy Moore, a local painter and fiber artist.

This current work is entitled, Oil and Water: New Works by Nancy Moore.

Having seen other shows by Nancy Moore, I know that her creativity has few bounds, and her love of color shines through in these paintings. Included in the collection exhibited are paintings of the Square, local former professor, Don Kartiganer, and sunbathers.

The show will be up in the gallery through the month of November.

If being more involved in art is your cup of tea, then there are several options available to you. You can apply to the Yoknapatawpha Arts Council Gallery Series. They have streamlined the process so artists can request shows throughout the year instead of applying once a year for the entire season of shows.

An exciting new feature is the Community Supported Art program that provides a stipend to artists of $500 to produce new work, a show, and a preview party to encourage art lovers to pre-order work that will be created for the show.

The application process is free and open to the general public. Please contact the arts council at the Powerhouse Community Arts Center at 662-236-6429 for the online application.

Making and donating an ornament is another fun way to support the arts in Oxford.  Each artist who donates an ornament to the auction will receive two tickets to the Holiday Ornament Auction which will be held on Dec. 8, recognition in social media promotion for the fundraiser, a donation letter for value of the art work and a one year membership to the arts council which will save you money on classes and events throughout the year.

More information is available on the event and process to submit at www.oxfordarts.com. Submissions are due November 28th.

As you can see there is so much to do. Have fun and be a part of the Oxford arts scene.

ANDI BEDSWORTH is owner of Art To Go, which brings free art opportunities to children in the community.