Page 27 - South Mississippi Living - June, 2021

is more of a ‘feel’ process,” said Ray. “The methodical precision cuts follow as the inside/outside surfaces are created and the walls are thinned.” His favorite creations are what he calls “closed form” vessels. He feels that hollowing these out to a uniform wall thickness through a tiny hole on the top is the “ultimate challenge.”
Hyla’s focus is ceramics, and her interest grew through her love of color. “I have never been good at drawing and am not very interested in painting, so the ceramics fill the creative side of me quite well.” She learned from her friend Lisa Fazio, who she credits with teaching her both hand building and wheel thrown pottery.
“Ray and I work exceptionally well on projects,” adds Hyla. “We bring different strengths and perspectives but it always seems to meld seamlessly into a great finished product.” When renovating My Happy Place, they worked with Village Builders to bring the over-100-year-old building to new life. With a variety of artists and mediums, the gallery offers something for everyone.
Each month, My Happy Place, offers gallery nights featuring different artists and themes. Local artists are on hand as well as people from around Ocean Springs and beyond. The gallery is also available for rent, offering a beautiful space for small private functions. As Hyla says, “What better way to celebrate a special occasion than to surround yourself with beautiful art?”
Ray and Hyla feel fortunate to be part of their community and are happy to be able to share their love of art with others. “Ocean Springs is a special community filled with talented artists, and we want to honor both with our gift back,” adds Hyla. “Hopefully that is exactly the feeling people have when they walk into My Happy Place – a joyful community gallery.”
1209 Government St., Ocean Springs 228.215.1343 www.myhappyplacegallery.com Hours: Tuesday-Saturday
10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and by appointment
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