Artist Spotlight: Interview with Jim Huckabay

Jim Huckabay talks about his piece After Covid, and how the pandemic influenced not  only artists, but art itself.

I’m thrilled to be sitting here with you today, Jim! I was enamored by your piece, After  Covid. Before we delve into the details of the piece, tell me a little bit about yourself  and how you got started with the Mississippi Art Colony. 

I’m thrilled to be chatting with you as well. I’m Jim Huckabay and reside in Shreveport,  Louisiana. I grew up in an Air Force family, so we moved frequently as I was growing up. After pursuing a solid fine art curriculum at Louisiana Tech, I graduated with a BA in  Advertising Design. Entering the profession as a junior designer in ad agencies, I became an art director, creative director and eventually began my own design firm. Business was good  and eventually; my little firm grew into a full-service advertising/marketing agency.  

Upon my exit from the world of business, I began working with watercolor (a medium I had  become familiar with in commercial assignments), then transitioned to acrylics and oils.  Currently, I work in both oils and watercolor. 

What has your experience being a part of The Art Colony been like? 

My experience has been delightful. Being part of Mississippi Art Colony, I’ve been given the  opportunity to go shoulder-to-shoulder with accomplished artists. It’s inspiring to observe  their individual/unique approaches to their creative processes. In turn, hopefully they enjoy  

observing mine. I have been in the art field for several decades. At Colony, it’s a give and  take – we share, we receive, and we will reap the benefits of our collective energy. 

Your piece is titled After Covid. How did the pandemic affect, or even inspire you as an  artist? 

Well, many of us continued painting during the pandemic. The Art Colony sessions ended for two years, but I was painting at home using watercolors and oils a lot. One day, I was out  at a local restaurant. In a way, it was one of the first times people were getting out and  about and dropping down their masks since the start of the pandemic. I captured images  around the restaurant that inspired me to paint them. In one of the photos, everybody had  just finished breakfast, and there was a man seated alone finishing up his meal. He really  captured the look of the whole scene. That man is the principal character in the foreground of the painting, and you can see that there’s a mask hanging from around his neck. Most of  my pieces are nature-oriented, so figures like the one displayed in my image are kind of an  exception for me. 

What advice would you give to a young artist when it comes to advancing themselves  artistically and learning about this field? 

I would say that these days, there’s so much inspiration and instruction that can be found  online. The internet and YouTube are tremendous educational resources that offer great  materials to accelerate growth for individuals and their unique creative paths. In my  opinion, it does help to attend specific workshops when you feel drawn to specific work  that’s aligned with what you’re doing.  

Richard Stephens was extremely helpful and inspiring to me during my initiation into the  world of watercolor. I have other artists whom I admire, and I do indeed draw enthusiasm  and momentum from them, but the end of the day, I am my own person and follow my path  (and brush strokes) in my evolving style and approach to painting.  

Find Jim: 

Jimhuckart.com

Artist Spotlight: Interview with George Ann McCullough

Pictured: George Ann McCullough’s piece, A Patch of Blue, on display at the Mississippi Art  Colony’s Traveling Spring Showcase in Canton, Mississippi. In this sit-down, George Ann  delves into her start with The Colony, and the style that shapes her artwork.

Tell me a little bit about yourself, George Ann! When did you join the Mississippi Art  Colony? 

Well, my roots are in teaching! I have a background as an art teacher and have a teaching certification for all levels. After teaching for several years, I decided I wanted to start  making my own art. When I moved to Mississippi, I got involved with the Mississippi Art  Colony. I personally knew one of the founding members, Hosford Latimer Fontaine, and  she was the one that got me involved. That was in the early 80’s; and I have to say, it was  the best thing that ever happened to me. Since joining The Colony over 30 years ago, I have  only missed one Colony gathering. We’re the oldest artist-ran Art Colony in the United  States, and we’re still going strong, trying to recruit younger artists who are interested so  we can continue this legacy.  

To go a bit further into the beginnings of not only my journey with The Colony, but The  Colony itself, I must mention how Colony came to be, from my understanding. My friend,  Hosford Latimer Fontaine, and her sister-in-law, Leigh Latimer, whose family owned  Allison’s Wells, were trying to figure out what they could do with it in the off season. So, a  couple - Carl and Mildred Wolfe, were tasked with that challenge. Mildred went to Alabama  where the Dixie Art Colony was located. The Mississippi Art Colony was originally founded  on the same premises as the one in Alabama. However, the Dixie Colony wavered and  dissipated over time. I remember a member from that group coming to one of our sessions  in Mississippi. They wanted to revive the Dixie Art Colony, so they came to see what we  were doing. Then, they went back to Alabama and started their own Colony. I thought it was  interesting how everything really came full circle. 

So, you would say The Colony has been a big part of your life? 

It has. I was on the board for 18 years and President for three. I’ve been quite involved with  the workings of the organization. 

Being involved with the organization so closely for so many years, how do you think  The Colony has evolved over time? 

I would say The Colony has gone through different phases (relocating, etc.), but at the end  of the day, it’s just a continuation of people that are heavily vested in the arts. We’re like  one big family and are very supportive of one another. However, I won’t say that we are not 

competitive, haha. I can’t imagine that I would have had the growth I’ve had as an artist if I  wasn’t involved in the Colony. 

Every artist I’ve spoken to has told me how supportive The Colony is. What an  incredible organization to be a part of! Can you tell me a little bit about your piece  that’s on display? 

Yes, of course! My piece on display is called A Patch of Blue, an acrylic and mixed media  piece. I throw everything but the kitchen sink into my work sometimes. I love using different  materials and combining them into one piece. A Patch of Blue is comprised of collage,  layers upon layers of paint, paper, acrylic paint peel, etc. I think I would have to look at the  piece again to remember everything I put into it.  

What draws you to mixed media? Do you gravitate towards that style often? 

I do! Due to my art teaching background, I have a lot of tools and techniques in my arsenal.  I’ve always been drawn to collage and printmaking. Putting things together and it all just  working is a magical thing. I generally just keep layering until I feel I can’t say anything more.  

Can you tell me about your time in Canton? What support do you think the arts would  benefit from in a town like ours?  

Well, I’ve lived right down the road in Madison for thirty years, but my husband is originally  from Canton, so I do certainly feel a connection to the area. Canton is a great little town  with so much history. I know the town really strives to bring people together. When talking  about supporting the arts in a community like yours, I think community outreach is the  most important thing. 

We absolutely agree! If you could offer one piece of advice or tell a young artist  anything whilst they’re finding their creative voice, what would you tell them? 

I would tell them to keep working and be true to themselves. Don’t depend on other people’s opinions of your work. You must accept criticism, but also know yourself – know  what makes you happy and lights you up. 

Find George Ann: 

Facebook: McCullough George Ann Instagram: @mcculloughgeorgeann

Artist Spotlight: Interview with The Mississippi Art Colony Director, Kim Whitt

Canton Tourism sits down with Mississippi Art Colony director, Kim Whitt, to discuss her  distinct artistic style and the importance of having a creative community to lean on.

Good morning, Kim! We’re thrilled to be chatting with you today.  

I’m happy to be here. You just caught me on a cross country road trip! 

Oh, wow! I hope you’re having an amazing time! 

Definitely. I just made it back home to Mississippi.

Are you originally from Mississippi?  

I’m not. I’ve been here for about fifty years, but I grew up in Charleston, South Carolina. I  went to college at USM.  

A true southern bell! Can you tell me about your roots as an artist? How did you get involved with the Mississippi Art Colony?  

I’ve always been an artist. I’ve been surrounded by creativity my entire life. When I was  younger, I was a dancer and majored in cultural anthropology. In school, I studied the arts  and crafts of cultures around the world. I think I was just born with a very creative mind, and I was lucky enough to have parents that fully encouraged me to express myself. 

I began working for the MS Arts Commission as the Arts Education Director for nine years  until I retired in 2014. I worked with the Art Colony quite a bit during my time at the Art  Commission. When I retired from MAC, I realized I had the opportunity to go to this  organization that I had worked with. I was aware of how they operated, and the people  involved, so I dove at the chance to be a part of it and learn how to be a better artist. I joined  the group and was asked if I would like to serve as the Director because of my experience at  the Art Commission. I loved the Art Colony group tremendously and thought that I could  use the resources I learned from the Commission to help them grow, so I happily accepted  the offer. After 2020 and the pandemic, we've hosted our Spring and Fall retreats at Lake  Tiak-O'Khata every year, who have been so supportive of The Colony and a beautiful oasis  to look forward to every year. 

One of your paintings, Shady Grove, is on display as part of the Spring 2024 Exhibit in  Canton, MS. What’s the story behind this piece? 

Shady Grove is an oil landscape on canvas. I’ve always been attracted to landscapes as my  subject because I live in beautiful South Mississippi. Trees have always been a significant part of my work and I wanted to approach them in a more explorative way. I did a body of  work last summer that focused primarily on color. I called that series “Dreamscapes” and  really dove into working with color and texture. I wanted to approach landscapes in a more  imaginative and abstract way. That series was incredibly unique. In that body of work, I tried  to bring the language of textiles to paint. 

Shady Grove by Kim Whitt, on display in the Allison’s Wells School of Arts and Crafts in  Canton, Mississippi 

Can you tell me more about your use of textiles? 

Absolutely! So, I’m also a textile artist (weaving, more specifically) and have been doing  that for 45 years. I was introduced to weaving in the early 70’s. It was an art form that was  being explored back then, and I think we are rediscovering it now. I aim to explore the  intersection between weaving and painting and find a way to integrate the two styles. I do  so by practicing a technique called “painted warp.” In my painted warp work, I use  unconventional material to create landscape references. I wove copper wire, moss, and  various other materials into the pieces. I like using those materials instead of just using  yarn because it allows me to create sculptural landscapes through weaving. By doing this,  I’m trying to create a new artform – perhaps a mixed media form – using elements of textiles and elements of painting. Currently, I’m working on a body of work that will be  shown at the Columbus Arts Council in November.  

How amazing! The technique you described is very unique and inspiring. What gives  you inspiration to create such distinctive pieces? 

I would have to say that my environment and nature is my greatest inspiration. 

What advice would you give to young artists that are trying to find a creative voice that’s unique to them? 

I would tell a young artist that if there’s not a creative, artistic community near them - they  should start their own. You need to find your tribe of people who are like-minded,  supportive, and serious about their work. For example, in Hattiesburg, there’s a group of  about fifteen female artists, called The Women’s Art Collective. We were creative friends  that got together to talk about our artwork and support one another. The MS Arts Colony is  also a great resource. It was made for not only experienced, but also aspiring artists in  mind. We host sessions that basically act as Professional Development Training for artists  and are taught by nationally acclaimed artists.  

For a smaller town, such as Canton, what do you think strengthens and brings the art  community together? 

This is my arts education background speaking, but for Canton, I think having that genuine  authentic brand tremendously helps the arts community prosper. Canton wants to grow  and serve the arts, so providing opportunities for artists in the area is a great way to go  about that. Now that we are slated to have Canton Tourism host The Colony’s Traveling Spring Art show in Canton every year moving forward, I think the town is moving in a  marvelous direction. 

That being said, I also think it’s important for Canton to know what makes Canton special.  As far as the arts go, I would say the Allison’s Wells history is a great start to educate people  about art history in the town, as those are the bones that built Canton’s art community. 

Find Kim: 

Website: kimwhittart.com

Instagram: @kimcwhitt

Facebook: Kim Whitt Art

Artist Spotlight: Interview with Biloxi artist, Paulette Dove

Incognito and Yet

Today, we’re sitting down with Biloxi artist, Paulette Dove. Her artwork challenges the norms and encourages the viewer to reflect on the actions of not only those around them, but also their own.

Good afternoon, Paulette! I absolutely adore your piece, Incognito and Yet, displayed in the MS Art Colony’s Spring Showcase. I’d love to know more about your background and how you came to be where you are now, artistically speaking. 

Good afternoon to you as well! I’m from Biloxi, Mississippi and have lived there most of my life. Biloxi is truly such a good mecca for artists since there are so many there. To go back to my roots, I was always interested in art as a child. As I grew up, I realized that it was what I was best at – that I had found my thing. I took many lessons and majored in art in college. I received my B.F.A and Med from MUW and William Carey University. I went on to teach art in schools for thirty years. My favorite was teaching High School students. I always wanted to create an environment where they felt comfortable to express themselves, and I believe I achieved that. Currently, I teach adult classes at the Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art and am a full-time artist. 

Amazing! I bet teaching children was such a rewarding experience. Can you tell me a bit about what went into creating “Incognito and Yet?” It’s such a unique piece. 

Absolutely. Incognito and Yet is from a series called “Almost Human.” The series tells stories about people that have animalistic traits, as well as human characteristics. It translates these aspects into something that the viewer can imagine and relate to. All the pieces are a collection of familiarity and the uncanny. Incognito and Yet has evolved a lot. It started out as a sculpture, then emerged into something that was half-human. 

What made you choose the jackrabbit to blend these human characteristics into a subject that is of uncanny nature?

I use a jackrabbit because it has a more human form when standing. The subjects in my paintings started out sitting in social situations. Then, I began to paint my friends, but in a more animal-like form. Now, it has evolved into the subjects wearing a hair mask or googles. This is representative of the fake personas many people project onto the world.

Who or what inspires you when creating these collections?

I try to go to a lot of art galleries seeking inspiration. I have to say that my teachers were very inspirational. I also belong to a group on the coast. We meet to discuss and bounce ideas off each other. The Mississippi Art Colony is a huge influence on my life. The Art Colony fully embraces creating artwork, not just art. 

Having a group of supportive artists adds such instrumental value to an artists’ life. In your opinion, how can a town like Canton bring the community together through art?

I think what you’re doing right now is exactly how to do that – by giving the community a chance to stop by and see artwork. I’m very impressed that Canton wants to have original art and showcase it. Using social media, like you are, is an incredible way to go about getting the word out there. Not all small towns embrace it, but I’ve found throughout my career that small towns are most successful when they relish the arts and support local artists. Canton is doing exactly that. 

Author: Ace Henley

Artist Spotlight: Interview with Ocean Springs Artist, Faith Williston

Faith Williston; an artist from Birmingham, AL, sits down to talk about her career, what  inspires her creatively, and Canton’s small-town charm. Her piece, Cuive et Fleurs, is  displayed in Canton as part of the Mississippi Art Colony’s traveling exhibit.  

We’re so happy to be sitting down with you, Faith. You’re originally from Birmingham;  what led you to Mississippi? 

I’m so thrilled to be speaking with you! My husband and I met in High School. He was in the  Navy for 20 years, so we lived everywhere – from Virginia to California. We lived all across the United States. That experience gave me the opportunity to see all types of landscapes, 

cultures, and people. So, when he [my husband] finished his Navy career in Pascagoula, we  were trying to decide if we wanted to stay there or wanted to move. 

We had three boys and wanted a change of pace, so we moved to Ocean Springs. We’ve  now lived here for 24 years and absolutely love it. I never thought, being from Birmingham, that I would end up in Mississippi, but it has been such a nice little surprise. 

We are so happy you have enjoyed the Coast. It’s such a beautiful slice of our great  state. Can you tell me a bit about your piece on display, Cuive et Fleurs?  

Absolutely. I really love to challenge myself. Still lifes and landscapes challenge me (in a  good way). They make you go back to the roots of your training. We did them all the time in  college, and that’s where I learned how to really look at objects and how they’re put  together to paint them. This piece was a good example of that training in action. With the  copper pots, fruits, and the flowers – it was an excellent way to see how light floats across a  still-life and trying to capture that feeling when painting. Seeing how those shapes relate to  each other and being able to pull light through the image is such a fun experience as a  painter. 

What draws you to still lifes and landscapes? 

The simplicity of these styles is really what interests me. I don’t want my painting to look  “photo real.” At the end of the day, it’s not a photograph. It’s a painting, so I like it when they  are simple and get the point across. I love it when the viewer is able to see the brushstrokes  and imagine the work that was put into the painting.  

Who or what inspires you in your creative process? 

This is a tough question. I think you always have people that influence you throughout life.  All kinds of people inspired me to pursue my art. I guess I’ve always just found it easier to  paint what I’m feeling or want to communicate. For me, it’s easier to paint it, rather than  communicate it. It’s just easier. I love being outside and seeing all kinds of landscapes and 

still-life’s that just exist freely in our world. I’m inspired by everything that’s out there and  the beauty of what we’re surrounded by. 

Mississippi Art Colony’s 2024 exhibit is currently located on the Canton Square. Tell us  a bit about your experience in Canton and your time visiting there.  

Canton really reminds me of Ocean Springs. It’s kind of artsy. It’s different and not the  norm. It’s a small town but has a huge personality. The people there are so kind, and I’ve  met so many friends there. They are all just so kind and open to talk with you.

Author: Ace Henley