Artwork by Piper Bott of Meridian is included in an exhibit by Mississippi School of the Arts senior visual arts students at the Ogden Museum of Southern Art in New Orleans. The exhibit, entitled “Stories of Our Generation,” will be on display through March 5. 

“Through Stories of Our Generation we would like to voice our distinct experiences and how they have shaped us into the artists we are today. Using the subject of the self-portrait, we have opened a window into our lives. We tell many of our stories using universal symbols, knowing viewers may read our stories through the lenses of their lives,” the students stated as their goal.

The Ogden Museum of Southern Art is recognized for its original exhibitions, public events, and educational programs which examine the development of visual art alongside Southern traditions of music, literature, and culinary heritage to provide a comprehensive story of the South, according to a news release. It is the first museum in Louisiana to be designated an Affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution.

The Mississippi School of the Arts is an 11th and 12th grade visual and performing arts residential, public high school in Brookhaven. Students receive special instruction in visual arts, vocal music, dance, literary arts, media arts and theater. The school holds the #3 highest ACT average in the state and the graduating class of 2016, 65 seniors received more than $8.6 million dollars in college scholarship offers, according to a news release. For additional information, call 601-823-1300 or visit the website at www.msabrookhaven.org

For additional information, call 601-823-1300 or visit www.msabrookhaven.org

Romance in the French Quarter at The Oaks

The Oaks Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center, voted The Meridian Star Readers Choice 2016 Best Nursing Home, has teamed up with Hospice Compassus to sponsor “Romance in the French Quarter,” a month-long event featuring valentines and mardi gras parties for residents, staff, guests and volunteers. The most recent was the residents’ monthly birthday party celebrated French Quarter style. From sweetheart banquets to Mardi Gras Parades they are celebrating and the public is invited to attend. For more information call Kerry Brown, activities director at 601-482-7164 or stop by the office located at 3716 Highway 39 North.

Getting a head start 

Sydney Coward, 11, of Union, recently visited the state Capitol and met legislators including Rep. Charles Young Jr., Rep. Steve Horne, Rep. Randy Rushing and Sen. Videt Carmichael. Coward represented the future students of Mississippi community colleges, and to convey the importance of supporting the state’s community college system.  She is the daughter of Billy and Kim Coward.

Suzanne Marshall writes the Neighbors column for The Meridian Star. Submit items to editor@themeridianstar.com.