The Hattiesburg Arts Council’s annual fall membership drive is especially exciting this year, celebrating its 50th anniversary.
During COVID-19 times, HAC is kicking off the landmark year by welcoming visitors to a museum stroll for distinctive artwork from the permanent collection of slideshow photos and scrapbooks from past HAC moments.
HAC Past Executive Patty Hall
More than 50 pieces from HAC’s Permanent Collection, acquired by community members and founders, will be on display September 17-21.
“We are indebted to the generosity of donors who are the heart of this collection, and we are delighted to begin the celebration of HAC’s 50th Anniversary with this special exhibition,” said HAC Director Rebekah Stark Johnson.
HAC Brian Blair Tribute
Featured are Southern artists such as Walter Anderson, Marshall Bouldin, Bill Dunlap, Rolland Golden, Marie Hull, Theora Hamlett, and George Thurmond. Commemorative note cards and posters featuring HAC’s collection will be available for purchase.
Bancorp South as the sponsor for this 50th year because in the early years of formation, HAC’s exhibits were held in the bank's downtown lobby. Later, they were located in the Saenger Theater Lobby.
With the support of city officials and HAC members, Hattiesburg Arts Council was able to officially gain its office, exhibit space, and house the art collection in the former Public Library, now known as the Hattiesburg Cultural Center.
HAC is providing optional viewing dates for staggered attendance, so the public can come and go over several days. This will allow for a quieter time to enjoy the range of beautiful artwork. Masks will be required for entrance and physical distancing measures will be observed.
The Hattiesburg Cultural Center is located at 723 N. Main St. in Downtown Hattiesburg. Gallery hours are Thursday, Sept. 17, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Friday, Sept. 18, 6-8 p.m.; Saturday, Sept. 19, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., and Monday, Sept. 21, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. (all free and open to the public).
For more information on 2020-21 events, visit the HAC website: HattiesburgArtsCouncil.org, or on Facebook and Instagram.