Page 16 - South Mississippi Living - May, 2023

COAST NOTE
The Arts Hancock County
Celebrates 20 Years
Celebrating their 20th anniversary, The Arts Hancock County continues to fulfill its mission of promoting, enhancing, and supporting all arts in the county.
“We are committed to equality and seeking out under- represented populations as we integrate art into the fabric of our community,” President Matt Stieffel said. “We are inclusive of all artists: visual artists, performing artists, writers, artisans and art supporters.”
Founder Gwen Impson recalls there was no such organization when she moved to Bay St. Louis even though the city had
been named one of the 100 Top Best Art Towns in America. “There was clearly a need for one,” she says. “I approached the Hancock County Chamber of Commerce, Tourism Bureau and County Library. They were very receptive
to the idea and became our first partners.” The Sea Coast Echo was another partner.
“They were extremely helpful as we began to formulate this new arts organization. They printed a survey to determine what the level of interest might be. At our first meeting held in the library, there was standing room only,” Impson said.
Open meetings were then held where
story by Lynn Lofton photos courtesy of The Arts Hancock County
artists and friends of the arts could speak. “We determined
that the organization would represent all of Hancock County not just Bay St. Louis,” Impson said. “We also wanted to be inclusive so anyone could join irrespective of their experience. So we had professionals, hobbyists, artisans, performers, writers, musicians, sculptors, printmakers.”
“Membership fluctuates from year to year, but the group remains strong, holding year-round programming, initiatives and events,” Stieffel said. “We will celebrate our anniversary with events throughout the year. Some of these include establishing a Members Gallery for artists to show and sell their artwork, special speakers at our monthly meetings and an expanded list of art classes for adults and children.”
Last year, thanks to a generous benefactor, The Arts purchased a building at 405 Blaize Avenue in Bay St. Louis. “Grants and donations for renovations enabled
us to open Hancock Arts Center last fall. Although the Art Center is located in Bay St Louis, the facility continues to serve all
of Hancock County,” Impson said. “With this facility, The Arts has become an anchor in the Historic Depot Art District.”
405 Blaize Ave., Bay St Louis www.hancockarts.org
16 | May 2023
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