The Meridian Museum of Art (MMA) is housed in the historic Old Carnegie Library building, which was constructed in 1912-13, and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and as a Mississippi Landmark. The Museum seeks to promote and support the art, artists, and art programs of our area and region through art education, exhibitions, collections, collaborations with other organizations, special events, and community involvement. MMA programs are designed to further these goals and to make art accessible to everyone in the community. The Museum serves an audience from across the state and region, but primarily from Meridian and Lauderdale County and the surrounding counties: Kemper, Neshoba, Newton, Jasper, and Clarke (in MS), and Sumter and Choctaw (in AL). Major Museum programs include:
Art Education – Museum School programs include classes for youths and adults, Model Studios, tours, gallery talks, talk-back programs, the Art Library, and support of the education efforts of other organizations. Youth programs include seasonal arts & crafts workshops, a full slate of Summer Classes, youth membership, and exhibits – with accompanying receptions – of children’s artwork from local schools and organizations. Artist Group – Artists meet monthly for painting sessions, demonstrations, workshops and classes, plein aire painting expeditions, exhibits, and field trips. Community Involvement – Programs that support other organizations, promote the Museum, foster involvement in the arts, and allow the MMA to be an active and valuable part of the community
Exhibitions – Excitingly diverse exhibits that feature the finest artists in Mississippi and Alabama in solo and group shows, invitational exhibits, and the Bi-State and People’s Choice Competitions. Exhibits are designed to support and promote the artists of our region while also entertaining and educating Museum visitors. Outreach – Support of the art programs of schools and other organizations, area economic development efforts, participation in community events, and “satellite exhibits” that take Museum artwork “on the road”
Permanent Collection – Focusing on collecting and displaying the work of renowned regional and Mississippi artists
Special Events & Membership Programs – Including the Members Shows, Black History Month Program, Patron’s Party, Martinis at the Museum, the Art Auction, and Membership Gala.
