Jackson Free Press

This weekend, the Mississippi Museum of Art will unveil two new exhibits, "Name Change: One Artist, 12 Personas, 35 Years" and "Mississippi Invitational." The latter is an exhibition of 10 Mississippi artists, selected by New York-based art critic and guest curator Peter Plagens from more than 100 submissions. The show features 47 new works, ranging in media from oils to digital video.

The exhibiting artists include Duncan Baird, Cleveland; Brent Fogt, Jackson; Marita Gootee, Starkville; Philip R. Jackson, Oxford; David Lambert, Jackson; Annabelle Meacham, Senatobia; Christopher Miner, Jackson; Mathew Grant Puckett, Jackson; Lee Renninger, Gulfport; and Amanda Sparks, Jackson.

Museum Deputy Director of Programs Dan Piersol said the exhibit was testament to the state's vibrant, innovative arts scene.

"The artists' mix of aesthetic approaches and strong personal visions make for a fascinating exhibition and confirms the vitality of Mississippi's contemporary art scene," Piersol said in a release.

The second exhibit opening this weekend, "Name Change: One Artist, 12 Personas, 35 Years," displays the works of Ed McGowin, who frequently reinvented himself to identify in new ways with viewers of his work. Both exhibits officially open Aug. 1 and will be on display through Nov. 29.

Several other events will be happening in the city this weekend, including a JFP Southern Fried Karaoke at Hal & Mal's tonight at 9 p.m. Join us as we say farewell to Managing Editor Maggie Neff and celebrate the Tax Holiday.

See more events at http://www.jfpevents.com.