Fall/Winter 2026 Celebrating Mississippi’s Creative Influence on the World In this edition... AVALON FLORA FRIARS POINT JACKSON SUNFLOWER COUNTY Meridian, Mississippi The official magazine of From Mississippi Roots to the Marvel Universe
Contact Stanley Wright at stanley@msarts.org, or phone (601) 581-1550 ext. 14, to book your group today. Ask about free admission and transportation reimbursement thanks to Where culture thrives and minds are inspired. Creativity Lives Here. Give students a front-row seat to the stories that shaped Mississippi—and the world. From history and social studies to literature, creative writing, and Career and Technical Education, curriculum connections are around every corner. Book a school field trip or a group tour and turn a day out into a day of discovery.
Fall 2026 Celebrating Mississippi’s Creative Influence on the World In this edition... FLORA AVALON JACKSON SUNFLOWER COUNTY FRIARS POINT Meridian, Mississippi The official magazine of From Mississippi Roots to the Marvel Universe ABOUT OUR COVER Acclaimed artist John Jennings takes us into his worlds and the methods he uses to create his award-winning masterpieces. See story on page 8. KEY CONTACTS AT THE MAX | 601.581.1550 Penny Kemp, President + CEO | penny@msarts.org | ext. 13 Brittany Davis, Visitor Experience | brittany@msarts.org | ext. 26 Benjamen Douglas, Programs + Strategy | benjamen@msarts.org | ext. 23 Courtney Keith, The MAX Store | courtney@msarts.org | ext. 30 Heather LaCoste, Education | heather@msarts.org | ext. 35 Linda Lauderdale, Member Services | linda@msarts.org | ext. 25 Christina McField, Changing Exhibits | christina@msarts.org | ext. 12 Jeremy Sollie, Marketing | jeremy@msarts.org | ext. 18 Abbie Thornton, Event Rentals | abbie@msarts.org | ext. 17 Elizabeth Williams, Sipp & Savor + Art Studios | elizabeth@msarts.org | ext. 32 Aaron Windham, Tech + Recording Studio | aaron@msarts.org | ext. 15 Stanley Wright, Group Tours + Volunteers | stanley@msarts.org | ext. 14 PLACE is published biannually by the Mississippi Arts + Entertainment Experience. Every effort is made to avoid errors and omissions. If, however, an error comes to your attention, please accept our apologies and notify us at info@msartsorg. This email also can be used to request address changes or additional copies. Chair Dianne Walton - Meridian Vice Chair Larry Primeaux - Meridian Secretary Annie McMillan - Hattiesburg Treasurer Michael Truelove - Meridian Past Chair Eddie Kelly - Bay St. Louis Director Emeriti Ann Alexander - Meridian Fred Cannon - Nashville Tommy Dulaney - Meridian Billy Estes - Fairhope, Ala. Alan Lamar - Meridian BOARD OF DIRECTORS Save the Date Landry Adkins - Meridian Kim Caron - Tupelo Wayne Drinkwater - Oxford Veldore Young Graham - Meridian Checky Herrington - Starkville Dustin Markham - Meridian Sammy Moon - Jackson Patti Permenter - Biloxi Kerry Scott - Meridian Don Shaffer - Starkville Laurie Williams - Jackson Ex Officio Laura Carmichael - Visit Meridian, Lauderdale Co. Terrell Thompson - Community Development, City of Meridian 8 5 CALENDAR OF EVENTS Always something happening From concerts and monster-making workshops to red-carpet events and unforgettable lectures, discover what’s happening at The MAX. 8 JOHN JENNINGS: BUILD YOUR WORLD Enter a world beyond the ordinary Discover the Mississippi mythology, ancestral spirits and futuristic visions that shape the extraordinary work of award-winning graphic novelist John Jennings. 16 THE ARCHITECTS OF AMERICAN SOUND A ceremonial evening celebrating five legendary musicians Join us for an unforgettable evening as five icons are inducted into the Mississippi Arts + Entertainment Hall of Fame Class of 2026–2027. 22 IN REVIEW A look back at the defining moments of spring and summer ‘26 An American Idol, a CMA Musician of the Year, a 92-year-old blues legend, A Day for Artists and the birds that defined a legacy–all part of a memorable season at The MAX. 25 DONOR RECOGNITION Because great things happen together Honoring the generous people and patrons whose support keeps The MAX thriving. 22 5 16 2 3 APRIL 10, 2027
EVENTS calendar of NOW THROUGH MARCH 27 John Jennings – Build Your World An immersive experience exploring the world-building of John Jennings, whose groundbreaking work in Afrofuturism, folklore and comics is brought to life through creative projects Silver Surfer: Ghost Light (Marvel); Kenny Dreadful and the Hainted Hoodie; Blue Hand Mojo: Hard Times Road (Rosarium Publishing); and Kindred: A Graphic Novel Adaptation by writer Damian Duffy based on the novel by Octavia E. Butler (Abrams ComicArts). EVERY FIRST SATURDAY Free admission, 9a–5p Explore The MAX with free admission all day, including art activities in the classroom upstairs from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1 Marvel’s Behind the Mask Screening + Q&A with John Jennings, 6:30-8:30p Explore the evolution of heroes and representation through the lens of Marvel history in this special screening of Marvel’s Behind the Mask, featuring John Jennings and presented in partnership with the Mississippi Film Society. Statewide Fimmaker Meetup at 5 p.m. Feature presentation: Marvel’s Behind the Mask at 6:30 p.m. SATURDAYS, OCTOBER 3 + NOVEMBER 7 Earth's Bounty, 8a–noon Farmer's market featuring fresh harvest bounties, baked goods, arts, crafts, live music and more. SATURDAY, OCTOBER 3 BET Raised Us: From Mississippi to the World, 5–10p High-energy, after-hours dance party celebrating Mississippi’s enduring influence on entertainment and culture. Hosted by award-winning comedians Rita Brent and Merc B. Williams. Live performances by Ariel J. and DJ Sirato. Add-on VIP dinner experience at 5 p.m. featuring a menu by Chef Enrika Williams of Fauna Foodworks. Tickets: $40 for the event | $95 (event + VIP dinner) 5 An evening honoring Black Entertainment Television founder Saturday, Oct. 3 Hosted by award-winning comedians Rita Brent and Merc B. Williams with live performances by Ariel J. and DJ Sirato VIP Dinner at 5p with Chef Enrika Williams of Fauna Foodworks Walk the Red Carpet at 6:30p After Hours Dance Party Robert L. Johnson Scan to purchase tickets Downtown Meridian From Mississippi to the World
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 10 + EVERY SECOND SATURDAY THROUGH DECEMBER 12 Comic Commons, 10a-1p Comic lovers of all kinds bring projects and ideas to monthly, open-door gatherings to read, connect and create in a welcoming, shared studio space. SATURDAY, OCTOBER 17 The Jackson Comics Experience, noon–4:30p Features hands-on workshops, a panel discussion and a temporary exhibition featuring the work of Mississippi comic artists. A conversation with Blake Barnes, Walt Grayson and Rodney Mooney from noon to 1:30 p.m. Book signing to follow. Comic workshops from 1:30 to 3 p.m.; mixer with music by DJ Venom from 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22 A Conversation with Laura Kittrell, 6p Mississippi native and showrunner of the new Amazon Prime series Elle discusses her career in television, including her prequel to the beloved Legally Blonde series. THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 19 Merry NightMarket, 5–8p Celebrate the holidays with shopping, food and drink, artisans, farm vendors, live music and free admission to The MAX, including the current exhibition, John Jennings: Build Your World. Free and open to the public. SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5 Mississippi Gospel Celebration, 1–2:30p Gospel in the Hall of Fame with Christmas tunes performed by Rodrick Fox and friends. Free admission. FRIDAY, JANUARY 8 Winter Concert Series: An Evening of Jazz with Rodrick Fox and Krista Overby, 6-8p Jazz in January has returned with an intimate performance by Rodrick D. Fox and Krista Overby. Cost: $35, or $20 for Friends of The MAX. 6 7 THURSDAY, JANUARY 28 Mississippi Arts + Entertainment Hall of Fame Ceremony Celebrate the addition of five icons to the Mississippi Arts + Entertainment Hall of Fame with a ceremony at the MSU Riley Center followed by an elegant reception at The MAX. SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 13 A Conversation with Myrna Colley-Lee, 11a–12:30p Explore Myrna Colley-Lee’s six-decade career in costume design through the lens of worldbuilding. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19 Winter Concert Series: An Evening of Country with Elsie, 6-8p Winter Concert Series continues with a performance by Elsie, a country artist from Columbia, Mississippi, known for her rich vocals, heartfelt storytelling and genre-blending sound. Cost: $35, or $20 for Friends of The MAX. SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 27 Jackson State University Takes Over The MAX, all day The former home of John Jennings showcases student talent from its College of Liberal Arts featuring visual art installations, theater, literary works and musical performances. FRIDAY, MARCH 5 Winter Concert Series: An Evening of R&B + Blues with Maya Kyles and the Delights, 6-8p The conclusion of our Winter Concert Series with an evening of smooth R&B, soulful sounds and good vibes from Maya Kyles that bring together the songs and artists that have shaped the sound of R&B. Cost: $35, or $20 for Friends of The MAX. SATURDAY, MARCH 20 Make-a-Monster Workshop with Jordan West, 10a Celebrate World Puppetry Day in this hands-on workshop with Jordan West ™ Scan to learn more about these and other events + reserve your spot
Step inside the imagination of award-winning graphic novelist John Jennings, and see where Mississippi mythology, ancestral spirits and visionary science fiction come to life. John Jennings: Build Your World, on exhibition through March 27, showcases the extraordinary work of this groundbreaking Afrofuturist from Flora, Mississippi—a New York Times bestselling graphic novelist and Harvard Fellow, garnering Hugo, Glyph, NAACP and Eisner Awards with work at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. “I am so excited to be traveling home to Mississippi to share my experiences at The MAX,” Jennings said. “It’s a true honor, and I hope people come and see what we’ve conjured up together.” Through original sketches, storyboards, finished artwork, soundscapes and interactive technology, visitors explore how Jennings uses comics and visual storytelling to reclaim history, challenge assumptions and imagine new possibilities for liberation. More than an art exhibition, Build Your World pulls back the curtain on how Jennings creates immersive worlds that place Black history, culture and imagination at the center of the story. Featured Artist from Flora From Marvel to Mississippi The MAX brings John Jennings’ visionary worlds home An award-winning graphic novelist, Harvard Fellow and Mississippi native invites visitors to step inside the creative process behind comics, culture and worldbuilding. “The Noir” from Blue Hand Mojo: Hard Times Road. “I’ve been a fan of science fiction as long as I can remember. My mom got me hooked on speculative fiction at a young age, and I’ve never looked back ... “ – John Jennings Story by Benjamen Douglas 9
Guests examine the evolution of Frank “HalfDead” Johnson, a character in Jenning’s Blue Hand Mojo: Hard Times Road, a graphic novel featuring Mississippi culture in 1930s Chicago.
Four Worlds. One Vision. The exhibition highlights four major creative projects revealing different aspects of Jennings’ artistic process: Silver Surfer: Ghost Light (Marvel Comics) Jennings reimagines a forgotten Black character as a cosmic guardian in this series, blending superhero storytelling with African American cultural traditions while revealing the collaborative process behind bringing a new Marvel superhero to life. Blue Hand Mojo: Hard Times Road (Rosarium Publishing) Created entirely by Jennings, this supernatural, gritty graphic novel combines Mississippi culture, folklore and history in a richly illustrated Great Migration blues story set in 1930s Chicago. Kenny Dreadful and the Hainted Hoodie A new Southern Gothic project, currently in development, features concept art and storyboards inspired by Mississippi folklore, African spirituality and horror traditions alongside digital process videos showing characters in development. Kindred: A Graphic Novel Adaptation (Abrams ComicArts) Visitors can see more than two dozen never-before-exhibited original drawings from Jennings celebrated adaptation of Octavia Butler’s classic novel, revealing how visual choices help distinguish 1970s California from antebellum Maryland. “The effect of Mississippi on my work is pretty immeasurable. It’s so odd that when you’re growing up, you long to leave a place, and no one tells you that home goes with you. My heritage and culture directly shaped not only how I move through the world as a Black southern artist, it shaped my ethos and process directly.” – John Jennings Building Community, One Partnership at a Time Build Your World is as much about people as it is about art. Exhibition development and programming for Build Your World have been supported by The Builders, an advisory panel of partners from across the state. Following Jennings’ initial residency in the fall of 2025–where he engaged with students, artists and community members with Griot Arts and Coahoma Community College–his second residency expanded his reach to nearly 400 additional participants in central Mississippi, ranging from 4th grade to college. 12 A Grand Opening to Remember Opening weekend kicked off with an exhibition preview in conjunction with the City of Meridian’s Juneteenth Heritage Festival and Black Business Expo, followed by a full day of engaging programs featuring these Mississippi artists: • West African dance and drum circle with N’spire Walker; • Cyanotype-making station with H.I. Green; • Zine-making station with Justin Ransburg; • A KRUMP street dance performance by Leaving Legacies with a surprise appearance by hip hop dancer JP Patterson; • An artist talk, followed by a mixer where guests met and talked with Jennings.
14 Jennings’ June 2026 residency included partner programming with the Meridian Public School District’s Summer Arts Camp, Meridian Public Library, Millsaps College, Phil Hardin Foundation summer intern program, the Meridian Freedom Project, the Boys and Girls Club, Camp Destiny, and Casey Elementary and Henry J. Kirksey Middle School of Jackson Public Schools. The exhibition’s themes went beyond The MAX’s walls with a panel at Mississippi Comic Con, The Dirty Blerdy: Black Fandoms of the U.S. South, which traced how Southern Black fandoms shaped national conversations around representation, creativity and community. After meeting fans at the convention, OffBeat hosted a mixer with Jennings where old and new friends came to meet the artist. Other Opportunities to Meet the Artist Together, these partnerships lay the foundation for Jenning’s upcoming third residency, beginning September 26 during the Mississippi Book Festival, where his newest graphic novel, Framing Emmett Till, will debut with a panel including author Christopher Benson and illustrator Eric Battle. Other opportunities to explore the worlds of John Jennings include a slate of programs outlined in the Calendar of Events (see Page 5). The exhibition also offers educators and students a unique opportunity to explore the intersections of literature, visual art, history and science fiction. To book a group tour or field trip, contact Stanley Wright at stanley@msarts.org, or phone (601) 5811550 ext. 14 for more information. Contributing photographers: Marianne Todd + Sophia Calderón From Blue Hand Mojo: Hard Times Road. This supernatural, gritty graphic novel combines Mississippi culture, folklore and history in a richly illustrated Great Migration blues story set in 1930s Chicago. JSU Student Showcase SATURDAY FEBRUARY 27 ™ Visual Arts • Music Theatre • Literature
17 Mississippi has long measured its greatness by its ability to shape the world’s soundtrack. From the Delta’s front porches to stages in Nashville and around the world, the state’s influence has echoed far beyond its borders. Blues, gospel, country and rock ‘n’ roll all bear the unmistakable imprint of Mississippi artists whose voices transformed American culture. That remarkable legacy grows once again as the Mississippi Arts + Entertainment Experience (The MAX) welcomes five new icons into the Mississippi Arts + Entertainment Hall of Fame. The 2026-2027 class joins an incredible group of Mississippians already enshrined in the Hall of Fame, celebrating artists whose work spans more than a century of American culture. Together, they represent the extraordinary breadth of talent that continues to reinforce a truth known around the world—Mississippi is indeed the Birthplace of America’s Music. Artists featured from Avalon • Sunflower County • Jackson • Friars Point The Sound of a Nation: Five Legends Join the Hall of Fame Story by Benjamen Douglas + Jeremy Sollie The five icons will join 38 Mississippi artists in the Mississippi Arts + Entertainment Hall of Fame. Artwork by Anthony Thaxton. The Class of 2026–2027 will be formally inducted on Thursday, January 28, during a ceremony at the MSU Riley Center ‘s historic theater in downtown Meridian. Following the ceremony, guests will gather just down the street at The MAX for an elegant reception celebrating Mississippi’s newest Hall of Fame members.
18 19 Each inductee helped define a genre while inspiring generations of musicians who followed. Mississippi John Hurt The Heart of America’s Folk Revival Mississippi John Hurt (born John Smith Hurt) became world famous in 1963. The soft-spoken, 70-year-old bluesman had spent decades performing around his hometown of Avalon, Mississippi, primarily for neighbors and at local gatherings. A central figure in the early 1960s folk and blues revival, Hurt went from obscurity to national fame within months. He performed on college campuses and festival stages across the country, signed a recording contract and appeared on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson. His influence extended beyond the blues, inspiring musicians in folk, country, bluegrass, gospel and rock ‘n’ roll. His Newport Folk Festival performances and Library of Congress recordings anchor his legacy in American folk and blues heritage, while his gentle spirit earned him the title “The Heart of America’s Folk Revival.” The Mississippi Mass Choir The Sound of the Spirit Founded in 1988, the Mississippi Mass Choir has reached millions through its performances and award-winning albums. The three-time Grammy-nominated gospel choir was the dream of Frank Williams, a Malaco Records executive and member of the Jackson Southernaires. Working with music minister David Curry Sr. and pianist Jerry Smith, Williams brought together 150 vocalists from church choirs across Mississippi to create a powerful wall of sound. The choir’s debut album spent 45 consecutive weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Gospel charts, setting industry records. A 12-time Stellar Gospel Music Award winner, Billboard Gospel Artist of the Year and multiple Dove Award recipient, the choir remains one of gospel music’s most celebrated ensembles. Under Pastor Jerry Mannery, the choir continues to minister through song across the United States and Europe. Charley Patton The Father of the Blues Charley Patton (circa April 1891-April 28, 1934) is widely regarded as the “Father of the Delta Blues.” Drawing from work songs, field hollers, spirituals and dance tunes of the Mississippi Delta, Patton forged a style uniquely his own. An indisputable pioneer of American music, his influence extends beyond the blues to rock ‘n’ roll, country and folk. His raw intensity and rhythmic innovations influenced younger musicians, including Robert Johnson, Son House, Tommy Johnson and Chester Burnett, later known as Howlin’ Wolf. Roebuck “Pops” Staples also cited Patton as a major inspiration. Posthumously inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2021, Patton was honored with the first historical marker on the Mississippi Blues Trail, placed at his gravesite. Bobby Rush The King of the Chitlin’ Circuit Bobby Rush (born Emmett Ellis Jr.) has captivated audiences worldwide with his self-described “folk-funk,” blending blues with soul-funk grooves. A three-time Grammy Award and 12-time Blues Music Award recipient, Rush is a member of the Blues Hall of Fame, Rhythm & Blues Hall of Fame and Mississippi Musicians Hall of Fame. With more than 400 recordings, he continues to tour relentlessly, performing more than 200 shows annually. Now in his eighth decade as a performer, Rush has become an elder statesman and ambassador for the blues. The 2026 Mississippi Public Broadcasting documentaries King of the Chitlin’ Circuit: Bobby Rush and the biographical play Slippin’ Through the Cracks: The Bobby Rush Musical continue to expand his audience and influence. Conway Twitty The High Priest of Country Music Conway Twitty (born Harold Lloyd Jenkins) remains one of country music’s most decorated artists, selling more than 50 million records worldwide and helping define the genre for a generation. His career changed in 1958 when an Ohio radio station began heavily playing one of his B-sides. “It’s Only Make Believe” reached No. 1 on the Billboard chart and topped charts in 21 other countries, becoming the first of 55 No. 1 singles. Fellow Mississippian Jerry Clower dubbed Twitty “The High Priest of Country Music,” comparing his concerts to religious revivals. Twitty embraced the title for an album. His signature song, “Hello Darlin’,” reached No. 1 in 1970 and became one of the era’s defining country songs.
20 Joining Mississippi’s Cultural Icons The Mississippi Arts + Entertainment Hall of Fame serves as the centerpiece of The MAX, celebrating artists whose achievements have shaped both the state’s identity and American culture. Created by the Mississippi Legislature, the Hall recognizes individuals whose artistic excellence and significant ties to Mississippi have left an enduring mark on the world. Celebrating a Living Legacy The Class of 2026–2027 will be formally inducted on Thursday, January 28, during a ceremony at the historic theater in the MSU Riley Center in downtown Meridian. Following the ceremony, guests will gather just down the street at The MAX for an elegant reception celebrating Mississippi’s newest Hall of Fame members. More than a tradition, the Hall of Fame induction is a reminder that Mississippi’s culture has never been confined by state lines—making it our greatest export. Its songs, stories, voices and performances continue to resonate around the globe, proving once again that some of America’s most enduring cultural treasures began right here. A Process Rooted in Scholarship and Public Voice The MAX Board of Directors oversees the nomination process via an external committee. Votes cast by a Panel of Electors, comprised of experts representing diverse artistic disciplines, are combined with thousands of ballots submitted by the public, balancing scholarly expertise with grassroots enthusiasm. Final results are independently calculated and verified by an accounting firm. Contributing photographers: Marianne Todd + Jerome Pickard For more information, visit msarts.org/hof. This event is made possible by Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Mississippi, Mississippi Public Broadcasting and Visit Meridian. 2025 Hall of Fame induction ceremony at the MSU Riley Center. Scan to view highlights from the 2025 induction ceremony
22 23 A Spring Break They'll Never Forget For more than 100 Mississippi students, spring break became an unforgettable experience when a hometown hero returned to pour his heart into the next generation of singers. From March 9–12, GRAMMY-nominated singer and American Idol Season 23 winner Jamal Roberts returned to The MAX for a four-day choral residency with students in grades 5–12, demonstrating the power of mentorship and the lasting impact of Mississippi artists returning home to share their knowledge. The Meridian native, who performed at The MAX as a young adult, worked hands-on with the students to help prepare them for the week's culmination: a performance by Jamal Roberts’ Soul Sound Choir. Before a packed audience, the students performed a selection of songs, including two of Roberts’ own: “Liar” and “Mississippi.” For Roberts, it was a chance to invest in the next generation of Mississippi talent. For the students, it was an experience to work with a nationally recognized talent, who once stood where they were standing. The Transformative Power of Music On May 27, The MAX welcomed Mississippi native Charlie Worsham with The Parchman Band for a powerful night of music that marked the opening of Worsham’s Pros & Cons Tour. Worsham brought his deep connection to Mississippi and American music to the stage alongside The Parchman Band, a group of incarcerated musicians whose songwriting, rehearsal and performance have become powerful tools for growth, connection and healing. A respected Nashville musician, Worsham was named CMA Musician of the Year, CMA Touring Musician of the Year and was recently inducted into the Grand Ole Opry. His Mississippi roots were at the heart of the evening. For The Parchman Band, what began as a revived musical tradition has evolved into something larger: an opportunity for musicians to tell their stories, develop their talents and connect with audiences beyond the prison walls. For The MAX, it was a reminder of what Mississippi music does best. Mississippi Sounds, American Stories The MAX celebrated America’s 250th anniversary over the Fourth of July weekend with a lineup of free events that highlighted Mississippi’s extraordinary influence on American music. A Conversation with Bobby Rush brought the multi-GRAMMY-winning blues legend together with Taiwo Gaynor, director of the new Mississippi Public Broadcasting documentary, King of the Chitlin’ Circuit. Rush reflected on his remarkable life and seven-decade career, offering an intimate look at the experiences that shaped it. The following day featured a performance by Rising Stars Fife and Drum Band funded through By the People: Conversations Beyond 250, an initiative of the Federation of State Humanities Councils and the Smithsonian Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage. Led by “Fife Master” Shardé Thomas, granddaughter of legendary musician Othar Turner, and percussionist Chris Mallory, their performance celebrated our nation’s independence, the emancipation of a people, and Mississippi’s creative spirit. In Review
24 A Day for Artists On August 21, a partnership between the Mississippi Arts Commission and The MAX connected, inspired and equipped creatives from across the state with access to state and national artist service organizations, employment opportunities and professional development. Afternoon hours came alive with studio activations. Wolfe Studio Celebrates 80 Years of Creative Legacy The MAX marked a milestone in Mississippi’s creative history on August 22 with a daylong celebration honoring eight decades of artistry, craftsmanship and family tradition. The day began with morning meditation followed by coffee and conversation with Bebe Wolfe. Visitors explored their own creativity through handson activities while Wolfe Studio artists demonstrated printmaking and slip-casting techniques in The MAX’s art studios. The day ended with a conversation featuring Bebe Wolfe and Jason Bouldin, moderated by daniel johnson, followed by a reception for a temporary exhibition of works by the Wolfe Family on view at The MAX through September 26. Contributing photographers: Marianne Todd + J’Marcus Alfred + Jeremy Sollie + Emmi Sprayberry Show Your Support Everything in these pages — the exhibitions, the students who found their voice in a recording booth, the artists we honored, the visitors who drove hours to get here — happens because people like you decided The MAX mattered enough to fund it. None of it happens by accident. It’s the result of a deliberate strategic plan: real programming, real partnerships, and real impact. All in support of the thriving arts and cultural center Mississippi deserves. Friends of The MAX is a new way to be part of that work. Support starts at $55 a year, with levels reaching $10,000 and above for those ready to invest more deeply in what comes next. If what you’ve seen here moves you, join us. Become a Friend of The MAX today. Penny Kemp, President + CEO Special Thanks to Friends of The MAX VISIONARY Paul + Sherry Broadhead Foundation Katie + Douglas Coleman Linda + Marty Davidson PARTNER Ann Alexander Corliss Atterberry Sheryl + Jay Davidson Monica + Hardy Graham Julie + Bruce Martin Lawrence Primeaux Waters International Trucks, Inc. SUSTAINER 1st Mississippi Federal Credit Union Atlas Roofing Company Beth Clay Duff Capital Investors Magnolia Beverage Company Mississippi Power Melanie + Manny Mitchell Gina + Randy Sharman Southern Pipe & Supply Anna + Daniel Wile BENEFACTOR Helen Abraham Melanie + Ric Alexander Christine + Bill Barham Sharon + Bob Barham Brenda Blalock Susie Valentour Broadhead Castle Jamie + Bob Cater Anne + Duncan Chalk Donna + Greg Creel Lindy Deen Ouida + Wayne Drinkwater Rebecca Combs-Dulaney + Tommy Dulaney EMBDC Freddie’s Fine Spirits Cathy + Maurice Hall Rose + Scott Hudson Judy + Condon Hughes Insurance Advisory Group Kemp Associates, LLC Gina + Buddy Laughlin Lisa + Larry Love Bob Luke Vicky McDonnell Dana + Phillip McLain Kelly + Scott McQuaig Meridian Airport Authority Karen + Lee Meyer Helen + Wade Sims Helen + Lee Valentine Visit Meridian Sissie + Fred Wile Terry Winstead Karie + Brad Woodall ADVOCATE Sandra + William Arlinghaus Marian + Claiborne Barksdale Marsha + Eldean Boyken Shawn + David Brevard Dollie Carter Lou + Clayton Cobbler Susan + Robin Coffin III Crow’s Nest Properties Holley + Michael Davis Mary Clare + Daniel Evans Donna + Anthony Fouts Laura + Lamar Gidden Shannon Crowe + Courtland Gray Sally + Lloyd Gray Judy + Bill Hammack Chellie + Checky Herrington Alice James Dianne + Larry Johnson Robert Kennedy Dixie + Ken LaBruyere Lou Ann + Alan Lamar Leading Edges of Mississippi Lee + Robert Loeb Frances + Sam Long Shelley + Evan McDonald Felicia + Mitch McLellan Margaret + Stacy Nicholson Rhonda + Edward Poole B.J. + David Ray Elizabeth Rice Nancy + Harry Robinson Mary + Don Rogers Patricia Sandusky Carolyn Smith Kathy + Kyle Temple Peg Wahrendorff Cindy + Coleman Warner Sue + George Warner Alatha + Duffee Williams Stu Yarbrough If you would like to join and show your support, please contact us at 601-581-1550, ext. 25.
2155 Front Street Meridian, MS 39301 Save the Date 04.10.27
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