East Mississippi Community College invites the public to the Pine Grove Arts Festival, showcasing the school spirit and artistic achievements of its students, from March 28-31.
“EMCC places a lot of focus on helping students learn the skills that will help them take their next steps toward excellence in education — from workforce training geared toward specific industries to preparation for transfer to a four-year college or university,” said EMCC President Dr. Rick Young. “But an appreciation for the arts is part of everyone”s life, regardless of what career paths we choose. The Pine Grove Arts Festival at EMCC has been celebrating that idea for more than 40 years.”
The festival opens Monday with a gallery reception in Aust Hall on the Scooba campus from 2:30-3:30 p.m. for EMCC art instructor Lisa Spinks. This collection of her recent work showcases pieces inspired by Kemper County and her students during the four years she has called this area home.
“I have three series that are works in progress. They will be on display at EMCC during the Pine Grove Festival. The first is influenced by teaching students about how color stimulates certain emotions,” Spinks said. “The second is influenced by a lesson from my drawing class each semester; it is a series of people and places in Scooba. The third series that I am working on is of things around my own home that intrigue me and make me happy — like the pink flamingos in my garden.”
While on campus, visitors can also view three construction projects underway: The new Sullivan-Windham Field; the Student Union; and the fellowship hall at the Chapel in the Pines.
More to do
Other Pine Grove Festival highlights include:
March 28 — EMCC”s softball team plays a double-header against Southwest Tennessee Community College at 3 p.m. Tickets are $5.
March 29 — Concert by the EMCC concert and jazz bands, choir and Reflection Singers at Stennis Auditorium. Choral groups, under the direction of Wendy Smith, will perform a mix of music, from hymns to pop music. Bands are under the direction of Stephen Stringer. The concert band will play symphonic music including “Amber Waves of Grain.” The jazz band will play selections such as “Brick House.” The free concert begins at 7 p.m. and is open to the community.
Also March 29, EMCC”s baseball team takes on Bevill State-Fayette Community College in a double-header at 1 p.m. ($5).
March 30 — The EMCC baseball team will play a double-header against Northwest Mississippi Community College at 3 p.m. ($5).
March 31 — The community is invited to an Artists” Open House at Aust Hall from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. This free event will feature the work of EMCC faculty and students, as well as members of the community, who will demonstrate talents such as paper-making, pottery and carving. Come demonstrate your talent or learn from other artists.
For more information, contact Spinks at 662-476-5136 or email [email protected].
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