Page 88 - South Mississippi Living - December, 2023

GIVING BACK
Gulfport Arts Center
www.gulfportartscenter.com Find us on Facebook!
Gulfport Arts Center
A Second Century, a New Incarnation
story and photos courtesy of Gulfport Arts Center
In April 1917, the same month that the United States entered World War I, the first public library on the Mississippi Gulf Coast was opened, constructed with funds provided by philanthropist Andrew Carnegie.
The Carnegie Library Building has survived a hundred years of storms, and has served Gulfport through many incarnations: as a library through 1966, then as the Sheriff’s Office until 1990, then as the Mississippi Sound Historical Museum, and now as the home of the Gulfport Arts Center.
The main gallery of the building is a showcase of paintings, pottery, stained glass, jewelry... all works of local area artists, who volunteer their time to keep the gallery open free to the public, to sell their artwork, and to offer services to the community, including classes, workshops, and special programming for children and underserved groups.
In 2024, the Carnegie will be renovated into a venue to host art exhibitions from across the country. Another exciting step forward... but we need your help.
With your support, and the support of local businesses, cultural organizations, and the public, the Gulfport Arts Center and the Carnegie will continue to serve the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Reach out to us at info@gulfportartscenter.com.
GULFPORT ARTS CENTER SPONSORED BY
Foster creativity that enhances the quality of life in Mississippi communities through statewide investment in the arts.
www.arts.ms.gov • (601) 359-6030
501 North West St., Suite 1101A, Jackson, MS
88 | December 2023
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