Page 14 - South Mississippi Living - February, 2026

COAST NOTE
The Ohr Enters Phase Two
Frank Gehry’s Vision, Fully Realized
story by Lynn Lofton photos courtesy of Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art
There’s a lot happening at the Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art with regularly changing exhibits and readiness to begin the final chapter of construction to complete the Biloxi campus.
“It’s the most exciting kind of construction. We are on the verge of beginning Phase Two, the final chapter that completes Frank Gehry’s vision for the Ohr O’Keefe campus, the Grand Staircase,” says Development Director Amanda Wymer. “More than a functional connection, it is a signature gesture, an architectural through-line that will allow the campus to read as one unified, fully realized Gehry experience.”
The campus will be considered complete when Phase Two
is finished. “The thrilling part is that we’re not talking about a small add-on. This final phase is what ties the campus together in the way Gehry intended—turning the walk-through experience itself into something visitors will remember as much as the exhibitions,” she added.
Exhibitions are always evolving, and the easiest way to see what’s currently on view—with photos and descriptions— is the museum’s Current Exhibitions page.
Asked about visitation to the museum, Wymer responded
that it’s trending upward. “We feel real momentum. People come for exhibitions, but they also come for the full experience, including classes, workshops, special events, and the creative community centered around the Biloxi Center for Ceramics.”
She says Frank Gehry’s passing in December was felt deeply by staff, Board of Trustees, members, and the wider community. “We remain committed to honoring his legacy in ways that are meaningful and lasting. Above all, we
look forward to completing his vision for this Gulf Coast masterpiece and sharing the fully realized campus with the public.”
The museum has also continued to present content and programming that situates the Ohr O’Keefe campus within the larger story of Gehry’s influence in architecture and culture. “As the campus reaches completion, we look forward to expanding that commitment through public lectures, educational partnerships, and opportunities to welcome architecture students and design enthusiasts to learn, reflect, and celebrate the life and work of Frank Gehry in the very place where his vision lives,” Wymer said.
Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art
386 Beach Blvd., Biloxi • 228.374.5547 • www.georgeohr.org
14 | February 2026
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