Neighborhood Philanthropy: Yoknapatawpha Arts Council
Oxford is host to some wonderful non-profit organizations that provide for our community in so many ways. We want to provide a glimpse of these organizations each month. We asked Wayne Andrews, Executive Director of the Yoknapatawpha Arts Council, “Why should we have an arts council in our community?” He shared, “Arts Councils are an important part of any town by providing artists with resources and community members with access. Arts Councils provide support to local artists whether it’s through grants, physical teaching or studio space, festival opportunities, or continuing education. They are also a major driver of economic development in our community.”
The Yoknapatawpha Arts Council (YAC) was founded in 1972. Named after the fictional Mississippi county created by the American author William Faulkner, it remains committed to a diverse offering of artistic and cultural opportunities. Each year the staff (four primary staff members, a handful of event staff and an AmeriCorp VISTA), the board and volunteers work to present over 300 days of art programs ranging from student programs, exhibits by emerging artists, live theatre productions, concerts, classes, and independent film screenings. YAC’s mission is to create the space and support for someone with an idea to grow. If you want to put on a fashion show, produce a play, teach a class, display your art, learn something new - call them!
There is always something going on at the Powerhouse, YAC’s main event space. From a rotating schedule of free art exhibits, to Theatre Oxford productions, to art camps for children to 3 Blind Wines (Wine Tasting) to its annual ornament auction, the Powerhouse serves as a melting pot of different arts experiences. The Old Armory Pavilion located at the corner of Bramlett Blvd. and University Ave. is managed by YAC and provides numerous outdoor experiences and festivals, such as the Oxford Community Market, Visit Oxford’s Ice Skating rink in December and countless others. The last venue partially managed by YAC is the Lafayette County Multi-Purpose Arena. It offers educational, recreational, and cultural programs for all residents of Lafayette County. YAC has hosted its annual Steak Cook-Off Contest, Cocktail Classes and Pro Rodeo there.
The Powerhouse
The Yoknapatawpha Arts Council has some exciting Summer offerings. My personal favorite is the Summer Sunset Series in The Grove at Ole Miss. Live music is offered every Sunday in June providing opportunities for the entire family to attend, picnic, and maybe even dance. It’s open to everyone and starts at 6:00 PM. It also kicks off their annual Membership Drive.
Executive Director Wayne Andrews shared, “I enjoy my role with the Arts Council as it involves helping community members achieve their goals. It could be learning how to paint or launch a creative business. Our next goal is the raising of funds to match the National Endowment for the Humanities leadership gift of $750,000 to build a community hub. The new space would offer a place for classes, interaction with scholars and artists, and a makerspace providing the tools for community members and visiting artist to share their ideas.”
Taariq David’s Cocktail Class
We are thankful that the Yoknapatawpha Arts Council serves all of our artistic needs. We are a better community because of YAC! Learn more about them, consider donating or attend one of their many art events and camps throughout the year. See you in The Grove this June!