Page 16 - South Mississippi Living - November, 2024

COAST NOTE
story and photos courtesy of Walter Anderson
Museum of Art
The Walter Anderson Museum of
Art (WAMA) is excited to announce
the return of the Silent Light Festival, presented by Hancock Whitney, a dazzling two-night event that will transform the museum and its grounds into a glittering wonderland inspired by the artwork and imagination of Walter Inglis Anderson. This year’s celebration kicks off with the inaugural Wonderland Illuminated Gala on Friday, December 6, 2024, followed by the Silent Light Festival on Saturday, December 7, 2024.
The Silent Light Festival transforms WAMA and downtown Ocean Springs into a radiant celebration of art and light, while also supporting the museum’s mission to foster creativity and preserve Southern artistic genius through ongoing programming and educational initiatives.
“Our goal with the Silent Light Festival and the Wonderland Illuminated Gala is to bring Walter Anderson’s artistic vision to life in a way that sparks joy, curiosity, and creativity for all who attend,” said
Julian Rankin, Executive Director at the Walter Anderson Museum of Art.
The festivities begin with Wonderland Illuminated, an exclusive VIP gala that will transport guests into an otherworldly evening inspired by whimsy, curiosity, and high fashion. Stepping into a magical atmosphere reminiscent of a journey down the rabbit hole, attendees will enjoy bespoke food and drinks, costumed performers, and psychedelic art experiences throughout the museum’s illuminated grounds. This extraordinary evening will blend fashion, design,
and creativity in a one-of-a-kind gala experience not to be missed.
On Saturday, the Silent Light Festival will open its doors to the public, inviting thousands of attendees to celebrate in a dazzling display of light, music, and art. This free event will transform downtown Ocean Springs into an electrifying celebration of creativity, with performers, dancers, multimedia art installations, and projections of Walter Anderson’s timeless
designs illuminating the streets.
The highlight of the evening will be the
silent disco, featuring dueling DJs and animated light projections. Guests can rent headphones for $15 to experience the full magic of the silent disco.
Proceeds from both the Wonderland Illuminated Gala and the Silent Light Festival will support WAMA’s ongoing programming and educational initiatives, which foster creativity and inspire
new generations of artists throughout Mississippi. The funds raised will ensure that WAMA can continue to celebrate the rich artistic heritage of Walter
Inglis Anderson and provide cultural experiences that impact the community and beyond.
510 Washington Ave.
Ocean Springs
228.872.3164 www.walterandersonmuseum.org
16 | November 2024
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