Greetings Arts Community, I’m thrilled to introduce myself as the new executive director of the Mississippi Arts Commission. Since starting with MAC on Nov. 2, I’ve been learning all about the state’s artists, arts organizations and MAC’s many partner organizations. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed meeting many of you, and I look forward to more introductions and […]
As MAC begins a new era under the leadership of Executive Director Sarah Story, the agency is looking for new team members to join the agency’s administrative staff. We are looking for business-minded and arts-inspired individuals to fill the roles of fiscal officer and systems administrator positions. “As we move forward, we need team members […]
After a 33-year career with the State of Mississippi, Shirley Smith is retiring as systems administrator of the Mississippi Arts Commission. As the agency’s longest tenured employee, Shirley has worked for MAC since 1992. For a number of years, Shirley worked in the role of executive assistant and later moved into the systems administrator position. As […]
In the midst of COVID-19, we could all use a little more light. MAC’s latest video features artists across the state of Mississippi who answered a call to share glimpses of what brings them joy during this time. The inspiring result shows an array of Mississippi artists shining their light while a variety of musicians […]
Like restaurants and retail, the arts have taken a big hit as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. Closed museums, galleries, schools, and event venues mean lost revenue for both arts organizations and individual artists. Despite these enormous challenges, we are encouraged by the uplifting responses and creative solutions offered by so many in our […]
The arts have been hit hard by the coronavirus pandemic. Cancelled events, closed doors, and postponed programs mean lost revenue for so many of MAC’s constituents. As the situation unfolds, we will share opportunities for potential sources of funding with the field as these sources are announced and made available. Last Friday, Governor Tate Reeves’s […]
Arts Community, How the world can change in a week’s time! COVID 19 is having a major impact on everyone, in every sector of society. We recognize the particular impact this pandemic has had on artists and organizations whose livelihoods often depend on events and performances. We all must play a role, though, in minimizing […]
As coronavirus COVID-19 spreads across the U.S., we recognize that this health concern presents special challenges for the arts sector, especially those hosting mass gatherings, such as performances, festivals, screenings, and the like. We would like to take this opportunity to direct our friends in the arts to a few valuable resources. Americans for the […]
Richard Kelso will receive a Governor’s Arts Award for Excellence in Visual Art on February 6, 2020. A Cleveland, Mississippi, native and well-known Mississippi painter, Kelso’s work focuses on capturing the beauty, time and place of Mississippi’s land. Kelso began painting while studying under Sammy Britt at Delta State University, where he obtained his bachelors of art […]
Steve Forbert will receive a Governor’s Arts Award for Excellence in Music on February 6, 2020. An American singer-songwriter, his award-winning, notable career in folk rock spans nearly four decades. The Meridian native officially began his career when he moved to New York City as a determined 21 year-old. From performing on street corners to working his […]
