Celebrate true Southern Culture in Mississippi
Jackson, Miss. (March 1, 2011) – Southern literature was born in Mississippi. The state’s literary greats have distinguished themselves the world over with a special talent for capturing the true south and the heart of America in their works. As a creative bedrock, Mississippi has also produced artists in every genre from painting and sculpture to stage and film.
“Mississippi is the birthplace of so many artistic spirits. Their skills and originality in the visual arts, film and stage, literature and other areas continue to touch the world and demonstrate what an inspired and prolific place Mississippi truly is,” said Mary Beth Wilkerson, director of the Mississippi Development Authority’s Tourism Division.
This year, Mississippi celebrates the centennial birthday of Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Tennessee Williams. Activities around the state, particularly in Clarksdale and Columbus, will pay homage to this native son and his influence on America’s literary heritage. Annual events also recognize the genius of William Faulkner. And while you’re in Faulkner’s hometown of Oxford, stop by Rowan Oak, a beautiful Greek Revival house, which was the author’s longtime residence. There, visitors can experience the world of Faulkner, including the outline for his Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, “A Fable,” written directly on the wall of the study. Other literary legends like Richard Wright, Shelby Foote, Margaret Walker Alexander and Eudora Welty and more contemporary authors like Willie Morris, John Grisham, Nevada Barr, Greg Iles and Kathryn Stockett have called Mississippi home as well.
Not only has Mississippi provided a backdrop for television series like “Between the Lions” and “True Blood” or films like “O Brother Where Art Thou,” “Double Jeopardy,” “Walk the Line” and most recently “The Help,” but the state continues to produce a wealth of performers for film and stage. Talents like Morgan Freeman, Sela Ward, James Earl Jones, Jim Henson and many more hail from the most Southern state.
“The Mad Potter of Biloxi,” George Ohr was a turn-of-the-century artist of abstract pottery recognized as genius by all who view his unusual designs. The Ohr-O’Keefe Museum in Biloxi celebrates the independent, innovative and creative spirit of its namesake and recently opened three new buildings to expand its collections and programs. Walter Anderson, another eccentric artist known worldwide for his unusual sculptures and paintings, also called the Mississippi Gulf Coast home. A museum dedicated to his works and legacy is located in Ocean Springs. But Ohr and Anderson are only the tip of the iceberg that represents the artistic treasures hidden across Mississippi. A stop at Mama’s Dream World in Belzoni will reveal the genius of Ethel Wright Mohamed, world renowned for her unique style of art stitchery and whose works are now on permanent display at the Smithsonian Institute. The Mississippi Museum of Art in Jackson features a comprehensive permanent collection of photographs, prints, sculptures and paintings by Mississippi artists. And galleries around the state exhibit contemporary, primitive and classical works of art by local artists. Visit a local flea market or festival any weekend and soak up even more of the unique talent that permeates the state.
From local artisans and craftsmen to award-winning authors and performers, Mississippi’s creative spirit celebrates the state’s diverse culture and captures the authentic Southern experience. To learn more, visit the Mississippi Tourism website, www.VisitMississippi.org.
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