WMA partners with Dothan City Schools to address grade-specific learning needs
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Melissa Rea Director of Advancement, WMA 334.794.3871 mrea@wiregrassmuseum.org Dothan, AL – November 17, 2022 – The Wiregrass Museum of Art (WMA) is continuing its partnership with Dothan City Schools (DCS) for the 2022-23 school year, and has aligned its arts learning resources to address identified learning needs for crucial educational benchmarks […]
WMA’s new fall events draw large crowds
In celebration of its upcoming 35th anniversary, the Wiregrass Museum of Art (WMA) debuted two new fall events this past weekend, The Glass Pumpkin Party, and The Pumpkin Patch, a free family art festival. These events provided fun, unique opportunities for area residents and families to experience artmaking by learning directly from artists. WMA’s slate […]
Stories from WMA
Students from the Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine (ACOM) in Dothan, collaborated with WMA this month at Write Night: Open Mic Night, a one-of-a-kind event, as part of their student body’s Diversity Week activities. ACOM students enjoyed exhibitions after hours, and gathered in the space to share their own cultural heritage and practices through musical […]
Two new exhibitions to open at Art After Hours on October 20, 2022
DOTHAN, Alabama — October 16, 2022 — The Wiregrass Museum of Art (WMA) will open new exhibitions on the evening of Thursday, October 20 at its monthly Art After Hours event, which will be on view until December 31, 2022. “entwined” is an exhibition of work by Pinky/MM Bass and Carolyn DeMeritt, long-time collaborators and […]
New family art festival and glass art party to debut at Wiregrass Museum of Art
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE DOTHAN, Alabama — October 14, 2022 — The Wiregrass Museum of Art (WMA) is introducing two new events at the end of the month, The Glass Pumpkin Party, and The Pumpkin Patch, a free family art festival. Both events are part of the museum’s series of community-focused events and programs in celebration […]
Corporate Member Spotlight: Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine
WMA is generously supported in part by the regional business community through its corporate member program. For this spotlight, we talked with Sarah Adkins-Jablonsky, a student at the Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine about the connections between art and medicine. Southeast Health and ACOM both support WMA as a Patron level corporate member. WMA: Sarah, […]
WMA announces prize winners for ‘B22: Wiregrass Biennial’
DOTHAN, Alabama — September 30, 2022 — The Wiregrass Museum of Art (WMA) has named three artists to receive awards for work included in the juried exhibition ‘B22: Wiregrass Biennial’, with two artists receiving multiple awards. ‘B22’ was on view over the last summer quarter from July 21-September 24th at WMA. Both the Judge’s Award […]
WMA awarded $12,700 in grants from Alabama State Council on the Arts
The Wiregrass Museum of Art is pleased to announce two grant awards from the Alabama State Council on the Arts (ASCA) for two programs, WMA Teens, and its Visiting Artist Series, for a total of $12,700. The first award in the amount of $6,600, supports WMA Teens, a program designed to provide arts opportunities for […]
Stories from WMA
WMA brings in visitors of all ages to learn from and enjoy art in our galleries, and this month, we welcomed a very special group from a fellow nonprofit organization here in Dothan, Vaughn-Blumberg Services, which provides services for people with intellectual disabilities. Visitors from Vaughn-Blumberg Services have visited WMA for many years, but this […]
Wiregrass Museum of Art offers CEUs for educator professional development
The Wiregrass Museum of Art is offering opportunities for K-12 educators in Alabama to receive Continuing Education Units (CEUs) for its upcoming professional development courses, as well as its studio classes and artist workshops. Professional development courses, developed by WMA’s education director, Brook McGinnis, will be available in an asynchronous, online format for educators to […]
WMA Update: Art Elevates the Everyday
As we ready for a new year, excitement continues to grow as we look ahead to our 35th year anniversary! Since 1987, WMA has evolved from an idea to a pop-up art exhibition in a commercial mall space into an active, vibrant museum with a focus on contemporary art. The museum is a platform for […]
Applications now open for WMA Teens
WMA is accepting applications for the second year of its WMA Teens program, now through September 19th. WMA is looking to select up to twelve area sophomores, juniors, and seniors from Wiregrass region public, private, or homeschools who are oriented toward the arts and creativity, and who are looking to gain experience in arts programming […]
Needs assessment for facility and operations underway at WMA
The Wiregrass Museum of Art is moving forward with work on a facility and operational needs assessment, and with support from the City of Dothan, has contracted with M. Goodwin Museum Planning (MGMP), an industry leader in museum planning with more than 35 years of experience planning over 150 art museums and civic organizations. Over […]
Stories from WMA
This past Thursday, WMA’s team welcomed artists and visitors from across the Southeast for the opening of two new exhibitions, B22: Wiregrass Biennial and Mary Ann Sampson: Puppets and Poetry at Art After Hours. Showcasing work from 38 artists in 7 states, the Biennial fills two of the museum’s galleries with sculpture, painting, drawing, multimedia, […]
WMA to host Alabama arts education grant workshop
The Wiregrass Museum of Art (WMA) will host a grant workshop session with the Alabama Arts Education Initiative on Saturday, August 6th at the museum from 10:00am until 1:00pm. The workshop will explore opportunities for schools to enhance existing arts programs or initiate new arts programs through Alabama Arts Education Initiative Grants. Through a line […]
WMA Update: A Bold Vision for the Future
Next year marks WMA’s 35th anniversary and as I reflect on the museum’s history, I’m grateful for early supporters who wanted the best for their community and who worked tirelessly to found our museum. Their vision for Dothan included the arts, and look how far we’ve come. It’s clear that “Art Elevates the Everyday”; and […]
WMA to host information session with Verdant Fund for artist project grants
WMA will host an information session for Verdant Fund, an expansion of the Warhol Foundation’s Regional Re-grant program, which supports creative practice born of and within Alabama. The fund’s goal is to reach a broad range of artists across all geographic areas of the state, and WMA is one of seven arts organizations throughout Alabama […]
Letter from the Director – Summer 2022
Dear Friends and Members, The museum is buzzing this summer! Between in-house camps, outreach and tours with community partners, and classes and workshops with visiting artists, WMA’s mission of lifelong learning can be seen on a daily basis. The most exciting thing about these programs, for me, is the opportunity for students of all ages […]
Stories from WMA
This month alone, 200 young students have been enjoying summer art camps and programs at WMA, learning and developing skills through hands-on artmaking, with many more to visit in July and August! Camps like ‘Read a Little, Art a Lot’ and ‘Mixed Media Mayhem’ gave little learners a chance to explore art mediums and fresh […]
Q&A with Photographer Jared Ragland
WMA recently announced the launch of an online exhibition, What Has Been Will Be Again, by photographer Jared Ragland. Between 2020–2021 Ragland traveled across more than 15,000 miles and 50 counties in his home state of Alabama to photograph during a critical moment of pandemic and protest, economic uncertainty, and political polarization. The interactive exhibition […]
WMA receives $13,000 in grants to support summer outreach programs and First Saturday Family Day
WMA is pleased to announce it has been awarded grants from local foundations to support two programs, including summer outreach programs and the museum’s longest running program, First Saturday Family Day. “These programs reflect the museum’s core mission to inspire lifelong learning for all ages. WMA’s programs are part of a comprehensive educational plan to […]
Stories from WMA
There’s something new in the neighborhood – Free Little Art Supplies Libraries! WMA has launched its newest project, in partnership with Dothan Leisure Services, and with support from Wiregrass Foundation. Free Little Art Supplies Libraries are now installed in three locations, Andrew Belle Community Center, Westgate Park near the entrance to the aquatics center, and […]
WMA announces the launch of What Has Been Will Be Again, an Online Exhibition by Photographer Jared Ragland
The Wiregrass Museum of Art announces the launch of an online exhibition, What Has Been Will Be Again, by photographer Jared Ragland. Between 2020–2021 Ragland traveled across more than 15,000 miles and 50 counties in his home state of Alabama to photograph during a critical moment of pandemic and protest, economic uncertainty, and political polarization. […]
WMA Announces Artists Selected for ‘B22: Wiregrass Biennial’
WMA announces its selection of 37 works of art from 38 artists from across the Southeast U.S. for its upcoming juried exhibition, B22: Wiregrass Biennial, to open this summer on July 21st at Art After Hours. The Wiregrass Biennial is a juried exhibition open to all artists living and working in the Southeast over 18 […]
Prom Night at WMA’s Annual Member Party
WMA celebrated its vibrant member community with this year’s annual member party, One Night Only: Prom Night on Thursday, May 5th. Attendees enjoyed taking inspiration from the theme, wearing their favorite prom looks over the decades, and posed for classic prom photos within the museum’s galleries. One Night Only offered members a chance to connect […]
WMA to host ALC workshop for teaching artists
The Wiregrass Museum of Art is partnering with the Alabama Artistic Literacy Consortium to host a training workshop for artists who currently work in schools, and for those who may wish to. The workshop will be held at WMA on Saturday, May 14th, from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. in the museum’s classrooms. During the […]
Stories from WMA
What a great week it’s been at WMA — and it’s not over yet! WMA opened new exhibitions last night at Art After Hours, with exhibiting artists Sonya Yong James and Sarah Marshall in attendance. Each artist took the time to chat at length with the many guests and museum members about their work, and […]
New exhibitions to open at Art After Hours
WMA will open new exhibitions on the evening of Thursday, April 21 at its monthly Art After Hours event, which will be on view until June 25, 2022. Sonya Yong James: The Eye of a Needle features an installation of works from the Atlanta-based artist, with a focus on repurposed cloth and thread as mediums […]
Letter from the Director – Spring 2022
Dear Friends and Members, A member recently told me, “WMA is the place to be these days”, and I couldn’t agree more! With thousands of school students coming through our doors, the museum feels as lively as ever. First Saturday Family Day is also back in person, with close to 150 people attending last month. […]
Youth Art Month at WMA sees high student participation, awards winners
The Wiregrass Museum of Art opened its annual Youth Art Month exhibition this month, selecting 151 works of art to display from its record-breaking total of 728 submissions. Selected works represent students from 31 schools, including Dothan City Schools, Houston County Schools, Dale County Schools, Coffee County Schools, private, and homeschool. Held every March, Youth […]
Stories from WMA
We’re celebrating a return to in-person programs, like First Saturday Family Day! Khloe B. and her family showed up at First Saturday Family Day last month. She and her brother have been in classes and camps before at WMA, and she, her brother, and her mom stayed for 45 minutes and created print after print. […]
WMA hosts elected officials for Museums Advocacy Day
WMA celebrated Museums Advocacy Day on March 2nd, hosting area elected officials to learn more about the museum’s work and impact within the Wiregrass community. Created by the American Alliance of Museums in 2009, Museums Advocacy Day has been a unique opportunity to unite museum colleagues and supporters from across the country as one voice […]
Arts and Philanthropy: Unpacking Public Funding
WMA introduces a new interview series in 2022, focusing on connections between the arts and philanthropy. In this interview, Melissa Rea, the museum’s Director of Advancement, chatted with Alabama Representative Paul Lee, who has represented the State’s 86th District since 2010. Melissa: Paul, thanks for taking the time to talk with us and explore some […]
Stories from WMA
We’ve had so much fun taking the tour groups through the new exhibitions. The kids seem to really respond to the work. One of the 3rd graders said that he wants to work in a museum one day, but he also wants to be a teacher. We pointed out that Ms. Brook is an educator in […]
Corporate Member Spotlight: CDG Engineers & Associates, Inc.
WMA is generously supported in part by the regional business community through its corporate member program. We sat down with Scott W. Trott, P.E., the Chief Strategy Officer of CDG Engineers & Associates, Inc. to talk about their company’s culture and priorities. CDG is a proud Patron level corporate member. WMA: Scott, please tell us [...]
Letter from the Director – Winter 2022
The arts play a critical role in the well-being of our communities by driving economic growth, tourism, and quality of life for our residents. As the Executive Director and Curator at the Wiregrass Museum of Art, I believe that the arts are the great connector of people, places, and ideas, and my role is an […]
WMA Teens Take Charge
WMA Teens, a new museum initiative for high school juniors and seniors, began their work this semester to create programs and events for teens, by teens for the current school year. Their bi-weekly afternoon meetings create a space for the group of 12 to plan, learn new skills, interact with guest speakers and teachers, share […]
WMA Education Director Presents at AAEA Conference
Brook McGinnis, Education Director at the Wiregrass Museum of Art, recently presented at the Alabama Art Education Association Conference in Mobile, providing instruction and inspiration for early education (preK-2nd grade) educators in her seminar, “Creating art is LIT! Igniting LITeracy skills through talking about and making art!” McGinnis explained how WMA has reimagined their school […]
Corporate Member Spotlight
WMA works with our corporate members to make the Wiregrass region a more creative, connected place to live, work, and visit. We talked with Elaine Taylor of RealTime, LLC, to talk about their support for the museum, and their company’s culture and priorities. RealTime, LLC, proudly supports WMA as a Supporter level corporate member. WMA: […]
Letter from the Director – Fall
Dear Friends and Members, Art elevates the everyday. And WMA elevates the Wiregrass. Through diverse programs that highlight quality art, lifelong learning, and that promote community gathering and sharing, WMA contributes to a rich local experience and quality of life that impacts the lives of those in our region. This quarter we open new exhibitions […]
WMA awarded $30,800 in grants for Sydney A. Foster artist residency and exhibition
Pictured Above: Sydney Foster, Photo by Frank Jackson. The Wiregrass Museum of Art (WMA) is pleased to announce grant support for an artist residency and upcoming exhibition with Sydney A. Foster, from the Elizabeth Firestone Graham Foundation and the Alabama State Council on the Arts, in the amounts of $25,000 and $5,800, respectively. Foster, an […]
WMA Reinvigorates Collection with Spanish Language and Photo Labels
WMA has recently launched a new initiative to make its Permanent Collection more accessible for its visitors. Labels for Permanent Collection objects, located in its Entrance Galleries and on long term display, now have added interpreted text in Spanish, and have provided photos of the artists whose works are displayed. These labels allow visitors and […]
Beyond the Box: ArtBox 2021
Two young artists. Three artist mentors. One project to change the world. During the last week of February for the last ten years, WMA would transform into a beautiful realm of chaos as teams of high school students took over the galleries to create installation art works from scratch in less than 48 hours. Teams […]
Corporate Member Spotlight – Wiregrass Home Team
WMA is generously supported in part by the regional business community through its corporate member program. We sat down with Bev Arnold of Wiregrass Home Team to talk about their company’s culture and priorities. Wiregrass Home Team proudly supports WMA as a new Friend level corporate member. WMA: Tell us a little bit about your […]
CAC Member Selection Announcement
The Wiregrass Museum of Art (WMA) announces its selection of community advisory committee members, following a public call for community participation earlier this spring through an application process. This committee is focused on working alongside museum board and staff to provide community feedback and to be ambassadors for the museum’s mission and vision. Community Advisory […]
Letter from the Director – Summer
Dear Friends and Members, We can see the light at the end of the tunnel. As other organizations and businesses begin the process of reopening, WMA is doing the same. Although we continue to prioritize the health and safety of our staff and visitors, we’re all eager to return to a sense of normalcy. Following […]
Wiregrass Museum of Art Receives $25,000 Grant from Henry Luce Foundation
DOTHAN, AL – May 24, 2021 – The Wiregrass Museum of Art (WMA) is pleased to announce it has received a grant in the amount of $25,000 from the Henry Luce Foundation to support three collections-based exhibitions in 2021. A leader in art funding since 1982, the Luce Foundation’s American Art Program supports innovative museum […]
Wiregrass Museum of Art awarded Wiregrass Foundation grant for summer outreach programs
DOTHAN, AL – May 12, 2021 – The Wiregrass Museum of Art recently received a grant award totaling $19,296 from Dothan’s Wiregrass Foundation to be used in support of the museum’s long-running First Saturday Family Day program and Wiregrass-area summer outreach programs, which will begin in June. WMA will dedicate $9,296 of the award to First […]
Wiregrass Museum of Art launches new community advisory committee
DOTHAN, AL – April 20, 2021 – Wiregrass Museum of Art invites residents of the Wiregrass region to become more involved in the museum’s planning through the launch of a new community advisory committee. The museum aims to deepen its understanding of its community’s needs through authentic conversation and participation and to infuse its day-to-day operations […]
NEH Grant Advances WMA’s Work in Collections Care
Wiregrass Museum of Art holds more than 1,100 objects of art in its care, including over 700 of those within its permanent collections, and is proud to care for, exhibit, and preserve these objects for future generations to enjoy and learn from. WMA recently completed a project within its ongoing collections care priorities with assistance […]
Letter from the Director – Spring
Dear Friends and Members, This quarter marks a year since our temporary closure in 2020, when exhibitions were postponed and programs and events canceled. Although we adapted quickly – pivoting to outreach efforts, supplying art kits to thousands, and increasing our digital presence — we’re all looking forward to a steady return to normal. It […]
Wiregrass Museum of Art selected to participate in national Museum Assessment Program
DOTHAN, Alabama – April 6, 2021 – Wiregrass Museum of Art (WMA) has been selected to participate in the Museum Assessment Program (MAP), which is administered by the American Alliance of Museums. Through guided self-study assessment and on-site consultation with a museum professional, participation in MAP will empower Wiregrass Museum of Art to better serve […]
Alabama State Council on the Arts awards $10,400 to WMA for artist residencies and professional development
DOTHAN, Alabama – March 24, 2021 – The Alabama State Council on the Arts (ASCA) has awarded two grants totaling $10,400 to the Wiregrass Museum of Art through its organizational grants program. WMA was awarded $5,200 to support its artist residency program, and another $5,200 for professional development and training in 2021. ASCA receives annual […]
Wiregrass Museum of Art receives proceeds from 31st annual Michelin Charity Golf Tournament
DOTHAN, Alabama – February 5, 2021 – Wiregrass Museum of Art (WMA) is the recipient of an award totaling $33,100 from the Michelin North America Charity Golf Tournament, held annually in Greenville, S.C. The 2020 tournament was held virtually in October and raised more than $330,000, with proceeds supporting 10 charities in communities where Michelin employees […]
Letter from the Director – Winter
Dear Friends and Members, Like me, I’m sure many of you are glad to see a new year. 2020 was a challenge for many of us personally, and we experienced our own trials at WMA. Through temporary closure, adjusted hours, new operational models, and the innovation of technology, we prioritized the people of this community […]
WMA receives technology and publication awards at 2020 Southeastern Museums Conference
DOTHAN, Alabama – November 5, 2020 – The Wiregrass Museum of Art (WMA) is the recipient of five awards at the 2020 Southeastern Museums Conference (SEMC), including three in the technology category and two in publications. Award winners were recognized at SEMC’s annual conference, held virtually this year in October. The designations recognize WMA’s contribution to professional […]
Alabama State Council on the Arts awards $11,200 to WMA for artist projects and annual Art Box program
DOTHAN, Alabama – October 26, 2020 – The Alabama State Council on the Arts (ASCA) has awarded two grants totaling $11,200 to the Wiregrass Museum of Art through its organizational grants program. WMA was awarded $5,600 to support its newly restructured Out of the (Art) Box program for middle and high school students, and another $5,600 for […]
WMA and Dothan City Schools partner to bring art education programs to area teachers and students
DOTHAN, Alabama – October 20, 2020 – The Wiregrass Museum of Art is partnering with Dothan City Schools (DCS) to provide online professional development for DCS’s A+ Art schools teachers and a virtual museum tours program for all teachers, students and families in Dothan’s public schools. DCS has committed $30,000 to the development of both […]
‘Sara Garden Armstrong: Threads and Layers’ set to open October 16 at WMA
DOTHAN, Alabama — October 13, 2020 — “Sara Garden Armstrong: Threads and Layers,” an exhibition surveying works by Alabama native Sara Garden Armstrong, will open at the Wiregrass Museum of Art (WMA) on October 16. The exhibition represents an artistic legacy in Alabama and New York spanning six decades, bringing together handmade artist books, paintings, sculpture, and mechanical, light- and […]
Art + Community Connection
Wiregrass Museum of Art thanks Southeast Health for their generous support in 2020! By upholding their commitment to Screen on the Green sponsorship during the museum’s temporary closure and reopening, and program cancellations due to COVID-19, their support provided WMA with funding to remain flexible and responsive to community needs in a challenging year. Southeast […]
Letter from the Director – Fall
Our mission at WMA is to create experiences that bring art and artists together with members of our community. While this year has challenged us in many ways, the museum continues to find ways to do this important work, by providing safe in-person visitation, as well as virtual resources that allow the public to engage […]
WMA announces prize winners for ‘B20: Wiregrass Biennial’
DOTHAN, Alabama — September 30, 2020 — The Wiregrass Museum of Art (WMA) has named six artists to receive awards for work included in the exhibition “B20: Wiregrass Biennial,” the museum’s first virtual exhibition. The Judge’s Prize will be given to Lauren O’Connor-Korb (Athens, Georgia) for her sculpture “The Soloist,” and the Alabama Prize will go to Jasper […]
B20 Artist Interview with Tara Stallworth Lee
B20: Wiregrass Biennial is a juried exhibition that encourages innovative and progressive work and showcases the South’s most talented contemporary artists, illustrating the region’s rich cultural heritage. Selected work utilizes a variety of art forms and media, including paintings, sculptures, mixed media, new media, and installation art. Three jurors chose from a field of over 130 entries for […]
B20 Artist Interview with Lilian Garcia-Roig
B20: Wiregrass Biennial is a juried exhibition that encourages innovative and progressive work and showcases the South’s most talented contemporary artists, illustrating the region’s rich cultural heritage. Selected work utilizes a variety of art forms and media, including paintings, sculptures, mixed media, new media, and installation art. Three jurors chose from a field of over 130 entries for […]
WMA’s Impact: Art + Artists
How do artists contribute to the communities where we live, work, and learn? What role do artists play here in the Wiregrass? Artists teach us how to use creativity and innovation to solve everyday problems, cultivate social and cultural sharing, and enliven our neighborhoods by bringing diverse groups of people together through active arts participation. […]
B20 Artist Interview with Heidi Carlsen-Rogers
B20: Wiregrass Biennial is a juried exhibition that encourages innovative and progressive work and showcases the South’s most talented contemporary artists, illustrating the region’s rich cultural heritage. Selected work utilizes a variety of art forms and media, including paintings, sculptures, mixed media, new media, and installation art. Three jurors chose from a field of over 130 entries for […]
B20 Artist Interview with Jessica Caldas
B20: Wiregrass Biennial is a juried exhibition that encourages innovative and progressive work and showcases the South’s most talented contemporary artists, illustrating the region’s rich cultural heritage. Selected work utilizes a variety of art forms and media, including paintings, sculptures, mixed media, new media, and installation art. Three jurors chose from a field of over 130 entries for […]
B20 Artist Interview with Maggie Evans
B20: Wiregrass Biennial is a juried exhibition that encourages innovative and progressive work and showcases the South’s most talented contemporary artists, illustrating the region’s rich cultural heritage. Selected work utilizes a variety of art forms and media, including paintings, sculptures, mixed media, new media, and installation art. Three jurors chose from a field of over 130 entries for […]
B20 Artist Interview with Jasper Lee
B20: Wiregrass Biennial is a juried exhibition that encourages innovative and progressive work and showcases the South’s most talented contemporary artists, illustrating the region’s rich cultural heritage. Selected work utilizes a variety of art forms and media, including paintings, sculptures, mixed media, new media, and installation art. Three jurors chose from a field of over 130 entries for […]
B20 Artist Interview with Jonathan Adams
B20: Wiregrass Biennial is a juried exhibition that encourages innovative and progressive work and showcases the South’s most talented contemporary artists, illustrating the region’s rich cultural heritage. Selected work utilizes a variety of art forms and media, including paintings, sculptures, mixed media, new media, and installation art. Three jurors chose from a field of over 130 entries for […]
National Endowment for the Humanities awards Preservation Assistance Grant to WMA
DOTHAN, Alabama — August 25, 2020 — The National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) has awarded the Wiregrass Museum of Art (WMA) a grant totaling $9,987 through its Preservation Assistance Grants for Smaller Institutions program. WMA is one of five institutions in Alabama, and the only museum, to receive NEH funding from its latest round […]
B20 Artist Interview with Chieko Murasugi
B20: Wiregrass Biennial is a juried exhibition that encourages innovative and progressive work and showcases the South’s most talented contemporary artists, illustrating the region’s rich cultural heritage. Selected work utilizes a variety of art forms and media, including paintings, sculptures, mixed media, new media, and installation art. Three jurors chose from a field of over 130 entries for […]
B20 Artist Interview with Bryce Lafferty
B20: Wiregrass Biennial is a juried exhibition that encourages innovative and progressive work and showcases the South’s most talented contemporary artists, illustrating the region’s rich cultural heritage. Selected work utilizes a variety of art forms and media, including paintings, sculptures, mixed media, new media, and installation art. Three jurors chose from a field of over 130 entries for […]
House Party for Art brings art + music + tech to viewers across the region
WMA recently concluded House Party for Art, its first virtual festival during August 13-15th, which included artist hangouts, spoken word, and music performances from artists and musicians across the Southeast. In a time of extended physical distancing and preventative health measures to protect our Wiregrass community, WMA created the virtual festival as an alternative to [...]
B20 Artist Interview with Sarah Bryant
B20: Wiregrass Biennial is a juried exhibition that encourages innovative and progressive work and showcases the South’s most talented contemporary artists, illustrating the region’s rich cultural heritage. Selected work utilizes a variety of art forms and media, including paintings, sculptures, mixed media, new media, and installation art. Three jurors chose from a field of over 130 entries for […]
B20 Artist Interview with Kelly Boehmer
B20: Wiregrass Biennial is a juried exhibition that encourages innovative and progressive work and showcases the South’s most talented contemporary artists, illustrating the region’s rich cultural heritage. Selected work utilizes a variety of art forms and media, including paintings, sculptures, mixed media, new media, and installation art. Three jurors chose from a field of over 130 entries for […]
B20 Artist Interview with Leah Hamel
B20: Wiregrass Biennial is a juried exhibition that encourages innovative and progressive work and showcases the South’s most talented contemporary artists, illustrating the region’s rich cultural heritage. Selected work utilizes a variety of art forms and media, including paintings, sculptures, mixed media, new media, and installation art. Three jurors chose from a field of over 130 entries […]
B20 Artist Interview with Carrie Ann Baade
B20: Wiregrass Biennial is a juried exhibition that encourages innovative and progressive work and showcases the South’s most talented contemporary artists, illustrating the region’s rich cultural heritage. Selected work utilizes a variety of art forms and media, including paintings, sculptures, mixed media, new media, and installation art. Three jurors chose from a field of over 130 entries […]
WMA’s House Party for Art will celebrate art, music and tech
DOTHAN, Alabama — August 6, 2020 – The Wiregrass Museum of Art (WMA) will hold House Party for Art (HPA), a free virtual music, art and technology festival August 13-15. Due to current restrictions on in-person gatherings, HPA will replace Yard Party for Art this year, an event that is held annually in August in […]
B20 Artist Interview with Andrea Vail
B20: Wiregrass Biennial is a juried exhibition that encourages innovative and progressive work and showcases the South’s most talented contemporary artists, illustrating the region’s rich cultural heritage. Selected work utilizes a variety of art forms and media, including paintings, sculptures, mixed media, new media, and installation art. Three jurors chose from a field of over 130 […]
WMA’s Impact: Art + Civic Dialogue
Did you know that the arts create opportunities for residents to become more engaged in their communities’ civic dialogue? Specifically, participants in arts events, programs, and projects have more exposure to experiences that unite generations, bridge language barriers, and increase understanding and cultural sharing1. The arts bring us together. At WMA, we’re actively engaging and […]
B20 Artist Interview with Victoria Sauer
B20: Wiregrass Biennial is a juried exhibition that encourages innovative and progressive work and showcases the South’s most talented contemporary artists, illustrating the region’s rich cultural heritage. Selected work utilizes a variety of art forms and media, including paintings, sculptures, mixed media, new media, and installation art. Three jurors chose from a field of over 130 […]
B20 Artist Interview with Mär Martinez
B20: Wiregrass Biennial is a juried exhibition that encourages innovative and progressive work and showcases the South’s most talented contemporary artists, illustrating the region’s rich cultural heritage. Selected work utilizes a variety of art forms and media, including paintings, sculptures, mixed media, new media, and installation art. Three jurors chose from a field of over 130 entries for […]
‘B20: Wiregrass Biennial’ set for a virtual opening at WMA
DOTHAN, Alabama — July 14, 2020 — The Wiregrass Museum of Art announces the opening of the virtual exhibition, “B20: Wiregrass Biennial” on July 16 at wiregrassbiennial.com/. WMA’s biennial showcases the South’s most talented contemporary artists, illustrating the region’s rich cultural heritage. The juried exhibition encourages innovative and progressive work that utilizes a variety of art […]
Wells Fargo lends support to WMA for artist programs and virtual offerings
WMA has received support from Wells Fargo for museum programs and virtual offerings that respond to the community needs during the COVID-19 pandemic. A grant in the amount of $5,000 provided funding for digital lessons and activities, including “art breaks” on social media and special content from artists. This funding will also support arts-based learning […]
WMA’s Impact: Art + Innovation
Did you know artistic innovation helps build equitable communities, gives people the tools to tell complex histories, and can help build more inclusive economies? By supporting artistic innovation, arts organizations can bring about positive social change. Artists cultivate creativity and innovation within their artistic practices and share important stories through their artwork. Their use of […]
WMA Artist Interview with Laura Lucía Sanz
The exhibition Path of Entry was to have opened at WMA this spring, but due to the temporary closure of the museum, it was postponed until next year. The group show, featuring artists from around the world and guest curated by Chintia Kirana, was inspired by the poem “Remember” by U.S. poet laureate Jo Harjo, […]
Letter from the Director – Summer
On March 13, when I announced the temporary closure of WMA due to COVID-19, I was sure it would be a few weeks until we were back in our building. Instead, we were closed to the public for three months, reopening on June 17. We continue to take necessary safety precautions, for the protection of […]
WMA receives $10,000 in emergency relief from the Alabama State Council on the Arts
The Wiregrass Museum of Art (WMA) has been awarded a $10,000 grant from the Alabama State Council on the Arts (ASCA) through the Alabama CARES About the Arts: Emergency Relief Grants program. The program was established with federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) funding from the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) and […]
WMA Artist Interview with Karen Stentaford
The exhibition Path of Entry was to have opened at WMA this spring, but due to the temporary closure of the museum, it was postponed until next year. The group show, featuring artists from around the world and guest curated by Chintia Kirana, was inspired by the poem “Remember” by U.S. poet laureate Jo Harjo, […]
Visitor and Public Health Guidelines
Please take note of our current Museum hours: WEDNESDAY-FRIDAY – 10am-5pm SATURDAY – 10am–3pm SUNDAY – closed to the public MONDAY AND TUESDAY – by appointment PLEASE NOTE If you do not feel well or have had contact with someone with COVID-19, please stay home. WMA is recommending that all visitors wear masks while in […]
WMA receives funding for summer outreach and educational programming
DOTHAN, Alabama – June 9, 2020 – The Wiregrass Museum of Art (WMA) is pleased to announce it has received grant funding from the Southeast Alabama Community Foundation (SACF) and Wiregrass Foundation for education and outreach programs. SACF has awarded the museum $2,500 in support of WMA’s First Saturday Family Day and transitional virtual offerings during social […]
WMA’s Impact: Art + Access to Education
Did you know that the arts provide an open door to significant educational benefits and valuable life skills for students? Students who have arts-rich experiences are more likely to graduate high school and college, vote and be highly engaged in the community, and have a stronger development of fuller and more empathetic perspectives on other […]
WMA Artist Interview with Chintia Kirana
The exhibition Path of Entry was to have opened at WMA this spring, but due to the temporary closure of the museum, it was postponed until next year. The group show, featuring artists from around the world and guest curated by Chintia Kirana, was inspired by the poem “Remember” by U.S. poet laureate Jo Harjo, […]
WMA Artist Interview with Path of Entry artist Joe Ren
The exhibition Path of Entry was to have opened at WMA this spring, but due to the temporary closure of the museum, it was postponed until next year. The group show, featuring artists from around the world and guest curated by Chintia Kirana, was inspired by the poem “Remember” by U.S. poet laureate Jo Harjo, […]
WMA Artist Interview with Bethany Johnson
Get to know Path of Entry artist Bethany Johnson The exhibition Path of Entry was to have opened at WMA this spring, but due to the temporary closure of the museum, it was postponed until next year. The group show, featuring artists from around the world and guest curated by Chintia Kirana, was inspired by […]
WMA Re-Opening Information
Dear WMA Friends, I hope this update finds you safe and healthy. It's hard to believe that WMA has been closed to the public for two months to aid in stopping the spread of COVID-19. Although we seem to be in a state of flux hour to hour, day by day, the team at WMA [...]
WMA Artist-in-Residence Lily Reeves Launches “Spirit Kin”
Above Image: Lily Reeves, from her series Spirit Kin, Image courtesy the artist WMA artist-in-residence Lily Reeves was to have launched her new project Spirit Kin in the Wiregrass this spring. Due to the museum’s temporary closure and travel restrictions, the residency became a virtual one, and Reeves presented her work during an artist takeover of WMA’s Instagram account May […]
Wiregrass Museum of Art receives second year of funding from The Daniel Foundation of Alabama
DOTHAN, Alabama – May 14, 2020 – The Wiregrass Museum of Art (WMA) is pleased to announce it has received $35,000 from The Daniel Foundation of Alabama. The award for operations funding is the second installment of a three-year grant agreement with the museum totaling $105,000. During the museum’s temporary closure due to the COVID-19 pandemic […]
WMA’s Impact: Art + Well-being
“The arts benefit patients, their caregivers, and the systems that provide the care—saving money, reducing pain medication needs and the length of hospital stays, strengthening immune levels, decreasing depression, increasing memory and cognitive function, and improving communication and behavioral skills.” While ongoing research supports the role of the arts in medical environments, we at WMA […]
Artist Profile – Beverly West Leach
Beverly West Leach’s work is currently on display at WMA, in the exhibition Telling on Myself: Recent Works by Beverly West Leach. Due to the museum’s temporary closure, the exhibition has been extended through September 2020. Here she discusses her work in more detail. What inspires you most? Well, many things and topics inspire me, […]
We miss you!
We miss you! But, our team at WMA is working hard at home to connect you with important art, artists, and ideas of our time. In accordance with health and safety guidelines,WMA is unable to reopen at this time and we are carefully considering when and how we may begin to reopen while ensuring the […]
WMA’s Impact: Art + Technology
Arts organizations overwhelmingly agree: Technology and social media have made art a more participatory experience, and have helped make art audiences more diverse1. What happens when technology and social media are the primary ways to engage with art? WMA is responding rapidly to offer its community ways to engage with, learn from, and connect with […]
Letter From The Director – Spring
Dear Friends and Members, As I write this letter to you, we find ourselves in uncertain times. The COVID-19 pandemic has been in the news for several months now, and like our art and museum colleagues around the world, we have been following the news closely. The arts are often an outlet during times of […]
WMA’s temporary closure to continue
At WMA, we’re keeping you in mind. Per the March 27, 2020 order from Governor Kay Ivey, WMA will remain temporarily closed to the public past the museum’s previously published reopening date of April 8th. As we await further notice from state and federal public health authorities on appropriate steps to take in the prevention […]
Stay connected with WMA from home
While WMA is temporarily closed to the public, we want to stay in touch with all of you! We are working from home to update online resources that will help you and your family stay connected with us, learn something new, and be #wmaINSPIRED until we can open the doors at 126 Museum Avenue again. […]
WMA’s temporary closure due to COVID-19
Wiregrass Museum of Art (WMA) today announced that, effective Tuesday at 5 p.m., the museum will temporarily close to the public to help contain the spread of COVID-19. WMA is dedicated to the art, artists, and ideas of our time and believes that museums are places of reflection and inspiration, and play a critical role […]
Statement from WMA on COVID-19 (coronavirus)
WMA values the safety and well-being of our visitors, and we make every attempt to keep the museum open and accessible to all. It is for this reason that we are carefully monitoring the news about the spread of COVID-19 (coronavirus), and we have begun to implement safety measures recommended by the Centers for Disease […]
WMA’s Impact: Art + Advocacy
Do you know how your advocacy for the arts affects funding opportunities for artists and students at WMA? Learn more about WMA’s impact in our region this month, and join WMA’s efforts to advocate for the arts by participating in Arts Advocacy Day with us on March 31st! In 2020, WMA will support 49 artists […]
Guest Post – Art and Healing: You Can’t Have Stars Without Darkness
“He doesn’t like doing art projects, so don’t be offended if he doesn’t participate,” Cindy said with a sweet smile as she rushed to set up the generous snack offerings for the evening. The gentleman she spoke of was sitting off to the side, at a table away from the group. Never one to back […]
Synchronized Swimmers – An interview with artist Jenny Fine
Jenny Fine is a visual artist and professor currently living and working in Enterprise, Alabama. Rooted in the photographic form, Fine’s practice employs time as material in an exploration of both personal and cultural memory, identity, and our shifting relationship to the photograph in our digital, image-saturated age. In Synchronized Swimmers, Fine explores her personal [...]
WMA’s Impact: Art + Tourism
Did you know that 68% of all tourism in the U.S. is driven by art, cultural heritage, and history?¹ Tourism drives economic growth, strengthens regional identity, and increases human connection. Importantly, cultural tourists spend nearly twice as much as other travelers, creating greater impact in the areas they visit! Last month, WMA opened two new […]
Wiregrass Museum of Art launches the WMA App
DOTHAN, Alabama – January 29, 2020 – The Wiregrass Museum of Art (WMA) is pleased to announce it has launched the WMA App for Apple and Android mobile devices. WMA worked with PushCrankPress (PCP), a Dothan-based design agency, to develop the app to deliver additional content about exhibitions, artists, and programming to both museum guests and offsite users. […]
Why Does WMA Matter to You?
Dear Friends of WMA: We at Wiregrass Museum of Art care deeply about making the art and programming we share meaningful to you, our community, and all our visitors. But we need your help! To learn more about how visitors like you engage with us, we are participating in a national survey of museum-goers, sponsored […]
WMA’s winter exhibitions to feature Alabama artists
DOTHAN, Alabama – January 9, 2020 – The Wiregrass Museum of Art (WMA) is pleased to announce it will feature work from two Alabama artists during its winter quarter of exhibitions. Jenny Fine’s Synchronized Swimmers and Beverly West Leach’s Telling on Myself are set to open on January 16 at Art After Hours (5:30-8 p.m.) […]
WMA’s Impact: Art + PreK-12 Education
Did you know that a single field trip to an art museum can help students learn new skills? A recent study from The National Art Education Association (NAEA) Museum Education Division and its partner, the Association of Art Museum Directors (AAMD), shows that inquiry-based field trip experiences at an art museum help students learn crucial […]
Letter from the Director – Winter
Dear Members and Friends, I’ve been thinking a lot lately about the core values that drive decision making at the Wiregrass Museum of Art. We’re dedicated to providing our community with exceptional experiences and believe in the transformative power of art. Our permanent collection, a diverse exhibition schedule, and digital access to unique works of […]
Alabama State Council on the Arts awards $11,200 to WMA
DOTHAN, Alabama – December 17, 2019 – The Wiregrass Museum of Art (WMA) is pleased to announce it has been awarded two grants totaling $11,200 from the Alabama State Council on the Arts. Two equal awards of $5,600 will be used to support WMA’s public art programming and new artist residencies in 2020, as well […]
WMA’s Impact: Art + Intergenerational Learning
Did you know the arts make every phase of life better and more fulfilling, and that learning through the arts has proven benefits for participants at all stages of life? In early childhood, the arts can boost IQ and get kids school-ready1. For older adults, arts participation also leads to better physical and mental health, higher […]
Caring for the Wiregrass through Art program issues call to artists
Wallace Community College – Dothan (WCCD) Foundation, the Heersink Family Foundation, and the Wiregrass Museum of Art are partnering to showcase the work of artists living and working in the tri-state region including Alabama, Florida, and Georgia. Caring for the Wiregrass through Art will serve as a touchstone for WCCD Health Science programs. Artists participating in Caring […]
WMA receives technology award at Southeastern Museums Conference
DOTHAN, Alabama – November 5, 2019 – The Wiregrass Museum of Art (WMA) is pleased to announce it was awarded a bronze medal in the Southeastern Museums Conference (SEMC) Technology Competition for digital marketing. Award winners were recognized at the organization’s annual conference, held this year from October 20-23 in Charleston, South Carolina. “The Southeastern Museum […]
WMA’s Impact: Art + Economic Development
Did you know the arts play a significant role in regional economic development? The arts spark growth and innovation by creating a fast-growth, dynamic business sector; helping mature industries become more competitive; providing critical ingredients for innovative places; catalyzing community revitalization; and delivering a better prepared workforce.1 At the Wiregrass Museum of Art, we’re grateful […]
Get to know ceramic artist Jessica Smith
This summer, WMA’s communications intern, Harley Masoner, set out to learn more about ceramic artist Jessica Smith, whose exhibition, In Flux, is on display in the Dove Gallery through the end of the year. Smith will teach a Visiting Artist Workshop on Saturday, November 16. In the one-day class, students will create a functional plate […]
WMA’s Impact: Art + Empowered Conversation
Did you know visual art empowers people by making space for needed conversation? Art helps us critically and creatively imagine our communities.1 Students recently experienced this kind of empowering conversation in action at WMA. During 17 summer field trips to the museum, 664 students took in Carolyn DeMeritt’s portraits of Native American tribe members as part […]
WMA is recipient of funds from annual Michelin Charity Golf Tournament
Museum will receive more than $77,000 from this year’s tournament DOTHAN, Alabama – October 15, 2019 – The Wiregrass Museum of Art (WMA) is pleased to announce it was selected as one of ten organizations nationwide to receive proceeds from the 30th Annual Michelin Charity Golf Tournament, which was held October 7 in Greenville, South Carolina. WMA […]
Indigenous Peoples’ Day — a guest post by Jared Ragland
Today, Indigenous Peoples’ Day, is being honored as communities across the US thoughtfully reexamine our national history, critically question privileged Western narratives, and celebrate the native peoples of North America. To help mark the occasion and contribute to the national conversation, Cary Norton and I are delighted to guest here on #wmaINSPIRED and share photographs […]
Corporate Member Spotlight – PRemployer
WMA is supported by the regional business community, and welcomed PRemployer, Inc., a division of PR Companies, to its corporate member program this past spring. We spoke with Mary Beth Maddox, Senior Executive Vice President of Personnel Resources, about the company’s values and vision. PRemployer, Inc. generously gives at the Supporter level. WMA: Tell us […]
Letter from the Director – Fall
Dear Friends and Members, The Wiregrass Museum of Art is where inspiration and creativity thrive each and every day. We are a place where learning is fun and children can explore new ideas; we are a platform for artists to activate new ideas; and we provide space where the community gathers to share their stories. […]
WMA launches Educator’s Lair blog
Online platform aims to help K-12 teachers meet state art standards in the classroom DOTHAN, Alabama – October 1, 2019 – The Wiregrass Museum of Art (WMA) is pleased to announce the launch of the Educator’s Lair, an online platform that serves as a resource for all K-12 educators. The blog, created by WMA’s education department, will […]
Alabama State Council on the Arts awards $10,000 to WMA
DOTHAN, Alabama – September 24, 2019 – The Wiregrass Museum of Art (WMA) is pleased to announce that the Alabama State Council on the Arts (ASCA) has awarded the museum a combined grant in the amount of $10,000 for an upcoming exhibition and an annual youth education program. The award designates $3,800 for a 2020 exhibition […]
WMA awarded $50,000 contract with Dothan City Schools
DOTHAN, Alabama – September 6, 2019 – The Wiregrass Museum of Art (WMA) is pleased to announce that Dothan City Schools (DCS) has awarded WMA a contract in an amount not to exceed $50,000 to fund educational field trips for two area schools during the 2018-19 academic year, as well as professional development for school educators. […]
Five questions with photographer Sean Crutchfield
Film photographer Sean Crutchfield spends hours each day traveling down dirt roads and blue highways, exploring rural communities near his home in Graceville, Florida. He peers through the lens of his Leica M3 camera, swapping out lenses and types of film to see the variety of images he can capture, noticing physical reminders of the […]
Corporate Member Spotlight: Mural City Coffee Company
WMA is generously supported in part by the regional business community through its corporate member program. We sat down with Zach Swan of Mural City Coffee Company last month to talk about their company’s culture and priorities. Mural City Coffee Company is family owned and operated (Darrin and Gina Swan) and is a Supporter level […]
YPA 2019 is in the books!
Saturday evening, August 10th found WMA’s garden filled with hundreds of people enjoying live music, art demonstrations, amazing food, and the occasional cool breeze during Yard Party for Art, the museum’s annual one-night celebration of its mission to bring engaging art and accessible educational programming to the Wiregrass. The crowd was treated to four incredible […]
Yard Party for Art returns to WMA on August 10
DOTHAN, Alabama – July 30, 2019 – The Wiregrass Museum of Art (WMA) is pleased to announce that Yard Party for Art (YPA) will return to the museum’s garden on Saturday, August 10, 2019. The annual, one-night art and music festival, billed as “the hottest party of the year,” will include a diverse lineup of live, original music from regional musicians,art demonstrations, an interactive virtual-reality experience, yard games, great drinks, […]
WMA’s Art After Hours celebrates summer exhibitions
DOTHAN, Alabama – July 18, 2019 – The Wiregrass Museum of Art (WMA) is pleased to announce the opening of its summer exhibitions, “As Long as the Waters Flow: Native Americans in the South and East,” featuring photographs of Native American communities by Carolyn DeMeritt; “Sight Lines,” a multi-media installation by artists Katie Hargrave and Meredith Lynn; and […]
Letter from the Director – Summer
Dear Friends and Members, We are in full swing for summer at WMA, with new exhibitions being installed, a total of 12 summer camps including in-house and outreach programs, and #theHOTTESTpartyoftheyear. We’re halfway through summer camp programming this year and we’ve already seen hundreds of students. In-house camps have provided opportunities for students to create […]
WMA awarded $105,000 from The Daniel Foundation of Alabama
DOTHAN, Alabama – July 2, 2019 – The Wiregrass Museum of Art (WMA) is pleased to announce it has received a multi-year grant award for operations funding totaling $105,000 from The Daniel Foundation of Alabama. The museum will receive $35,000 per year from the foundation for three years — 2019, 2020 and 2021. WMA has […]
WMA awarded more than $15,000 for arts education programs
DOTHAN, Alabama – June 18, 2019 – The Wiregrass Museum of Art (WMA) is pleased to announce it has received three separate grant awards totaling $15,800 to be used for existing art education programs in the coming year. WMA received a $9,300 micro-grant award from Wiregrass Foundation for summer outreach camps with partner organizations, as well […]
On the road with artists Katie Hargrave and Meredith Lynn
Even with WMA’s spring quarter still in full swing, the museum’s staff is hard at work making final arrangements for summer exhibitions. Included in the upcoming schedule is Sight Lines, a collaborative project by artists Katie Hargrave and Meredith Lynn, that “explores the mediation of nature through the lens, the vehicle, air conditioning–through modern machines.” […]
Get to Know Artist Carlton Nell
WMA’s exhibition Carlton Nell: Compositions showcases large-scale, abstracted landscapes by artist Carlton Nell. Nell is a professor at Auburn University and his paintings have been exhibited in museums and galleries nationwide and are included in various public and private collections. His illustrations have appeared in numerous publications, most recently on the cover of the historical […]
WMA awarded $50,000 from Wiregrass Foundation for tech improvements
DOTHAN, Alabama – May 10, 2019 – The Wiregrass Museum of Art (WMA) is pleased to announce it has received a capital project grant award exceeding $50,000 from Wiregrass Foundation to upgrade technological capabilities to better serve the broad needs of the public and daily museum visitors. The award will be used to purchase devices, […]
‘Continuum: 1808 to 2017/ Goya to Erdreich’ examines the effects of war and violence
DOTHAN, Alabama – April 11, 2019 – The Wiregrass Museum of Art (WMA) is pleased to announce the opening of Continuum: 1808-2017/Goya to Erdreich on the evening of Thursday, April 18 at WMA’s spring quarter Art After Hours event. The exhibition, comprised of a series of mixed-media works by artist Beverly Erdreich, takes an unflinching look at […]
‘Where You Come From is Gone’ to document Native American sites in the Wiregrass
DOTHAN, Alabama – April 4, 2019 – The Wiregrass Museum of Art (WMA) is pleased to announce that Birmingham, Alabama-based photographers Cary Norton and Jared Ragland, collectively known as GUSDUGGER, will be in residence at WMA April 18-20. The residency, a regional extension of Norton and Ragland’s project Where You Come From is Gone, will […]
Letter from the Director – Spring
Dear Friends and Members, WMA has seen tremendous growth in the past year, including a 13% increase in quarterly attendance from this time last year, a 72% increase in student artwork submissions for Youth Art Month, and a 24% increase in member households and 126% increase in corporate membership. These are exciting times at your […]
Get to Know Artist Sheri Schumacher
Sheri Schumacher is a designer and educator whose work is at the interface of architecture, public-interest design, and craft practices. In her WMA exhibition, textile | assemblage | place, Schumacher sets out to “map” the sensory experience of place by recording cultural landscapes with textiles. Schumacher uses repurposed materials, including linens and clothing in her work, often combining them […]
Get to know artist Sydney A. Foster
WMA had a chance to sit down and chat with artist Sydney A. Foster this past January while she was in Dothan installing her current exhibition, Walks in the South. In 2016, while walking through downtown Montgomery on her lunch break, Sydney was compelled to begin photographing people she met along the way. The series, […]
Wiregrass Museum of Art awarded $9,000 to support Youth Art Month
The Wiregrass Museum of Art (WMA) is pleased to announce it has received grant awards totaling $9,000 from the Alabama State Council on the Arts (ASCA), The Caring Foundation of Blue Cross and Blue Shield, Publix Supermarket Charities, and Dothan Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics to support Youth Art Month, a national program held annually to recognize […]
Corporate Member Spotlight: Econo Lodge and Team Linda Simmons
WMA is supported by companies throughout diverse sectors, from construction and transportation, to banking and architecture, and more. We spoke with Vimal Patel, a young professional in the hospitality and real estate industries, about his support for the museum through his companies. Vimal also serves as an officer on WMA’s Board of Trustees. Econo Lodge […]
“Home: Where I Live” offers a glimpse into homelessness in Dothan
DOTHAN, Alabama – January 16, 2019 – The Wiregrass Museum of Art is pleased to announce the opening of Home: Where I Live on the evening of January 17 at Art After Hours. Home explores the unique perspective of Dothan and Wiregrass area citizens that are either homeless or housing insecure. Artists were each given a […]
Letter from the Director – Winter
Dear Friends and Members, January marks a new year at WMA, and we have created a number of programs to inspire you throughout the year. From new exhibitions, to classes and workshops for all ages, and extended hours with Third Thursday every month, there is always an opportunity to enjoy the museum. Remember, WMA is […]
Charity Ponter on “Ground Beneath My Feet: Collaborative Portraits with Visual Artists in My Hometown”
We recently asked Birmingham, Alabama-based artist Charity Ponter a few questions about her exhibition, Ground Beneath My Feet: Collaborative Portraits with Visual Artists in My Hometown, on display now in the Coleman Gallery at WMA. She published the series of photographs that make up the show in a book by the same name earlier this year, a […]
Just eight days left to see “Echoes” at WMA
WMA is hosting a unique exhibition this quarter, and there are only a few more days to take it all in. Echoes: A response to objects in WMA’s permanent collection by the Alabama Women’s Caucus for Art is the first exhibition in WMA’s history to feature artworks created in response to or inspired by pieces in […]
WE MADE IT THROUGH HURRICANE MICHAEL!
The Wiregrass Museum of Art made it through Hurricane Michael with very little damage and just a couple of days without power. The staff would like to thank the City of Dothan (especially for the generator to run portable dehumidifiers and fans in the vault), the utilities crews, the local media, and everyone who has […]
Corporate Member Spotlight: Georgia-Pacific
WMA’s regional reach extends beyond Alabama, touching residents in the Florida panhandle and southwest Georgia. One out-of-state corporate member, Georgia-Pacific, understands the regional draw of the museum, and supports its mission to serve the tri-state area. We spoke with Peggy Jaye, Public Affairs Manager, about their company’s philanthropy toward arts and culture in the Southeast. […]
WMA announces ‘B18: Wiregrass Biennial’ award winners
The Wiregrass Museum of Art is pleased to announce two exhibition award winners for the recently closed B18: Wiregrass Biennial. The Judge’s Prize will be given to Elysia Mann for her weaving, Reading Narcissus; and the People’s Choice Award goes to Chiharu Roach for her painting, My American Ears. The Judge’s Prize winner was chosen by Douglas Pierre Baulos, […]
Letter from the Director – Fall
Dear WMA Members and Friends, As we come to the end of a very busy summer at the museum, I hope that you had a chance to visit us during one of our many programs or events. We hosted over 330 students during summer camps this year and have been planning new classes and workshops […]
Get to know the artists of ‘B18: Wiregrass Biennial’ – Part 5 (final segment)
WMA asked several of the 41 artists whose work is currently on display in B18: Wiregrass Biennial to answer questions about their artistic practice. This is the last post in our five-part series of B18 artist interviews on the #wmaINSPIRED blog. If you have missed the previous four, you can find them archived on the blog. Thanks […]
Get to know the artists of ‘B18: Wiregrass Biennial’ – Part 4
WMA asked several of the 41 artists whose work is currently on display in B18: Wiregrass Biennial to answer questions about their artistic practice. Get to know them better during the next few posts here on the #wmaINSPIRED blog. Jacob Phillips – Dothan, Alabama Suspended Memory, 2018 Spanish moss, cheese cloth, paint, wire, audio WMA: Tell us about […]
WMA receives $6,300 grant from Alabama State Council on the Arts
DOTHAN, Alabama – September 25, 2018 – The Wiregrass Museum of Art (WMA) is pleased to announce it has received an award in the amount of $6,300 from the Alabama State Council on the Arts (ASCA). The award will be used to support the museum’s mission of connecting contemporary artists in Alabama with the Wiregrass […]
Get to know the artists of ‘B18: Wiregrass Biennial’ – Part 3
WMA asked several of the 41 artists whose work is currently on display in B18: Wiregrass Biennial to answer questions about their artistic practice. Get to know them better during the next few posts here on the #wmaINSPIRED blog. Amy Fleming – Tallahassee, Florida Florence, 2018 Screen print, drawing WMA: Tell us about your work in B18. […]
Get to know the artists of ‘B18: Wiregrass Biennial’ – Part 2
WMA asked several of the 41 artists whose work is currently on display in B18: Wiregrass Biennial to answer questions about their artistic practice. Get to know them better during the next few posts here on the #wmaINSPIRED blog. Vivian Liddell – Athens, Georgia Troll with Talisman, 2016 Soft sculpture with embroidered fabric, googly eyes, and synthetic […]
Get to know the artists of ‘B18: Wiregrass Biennial’ – Part 1
WMA asked several of the 41 artists whose work is currently on display in B18: Wiregrass Biennial to answer questions about their artistic practice. Get to know them better during the next few posts here on the #wmaINSPIRED blog. Tom Wegrzynowski – Tuscaloosa, Alabama The Death of Caesar, 2017 Oil on canvas WMA: Tell us about your […]
Alabama Bicentennial Commission grants $20,000 for Stories of the Wiregrass project
DOTHAN, Alabama – September 11, 2018 – The Wiregrass Museum of Art (WMA) is pleased to announce it has been awarded $20,000 from the Alabama Bicentennial Commission in support of Stories of the Wiregrass, a collaborative project to celebrate the 200th anniversary of Alabama’s statehood. Previous funding for bicentennial activities was awarded from the Alabama […]
WMA summer interns experience museum life first hand
What does it take to run a museum? Sarah Ivey and Brandon Rice got a behind-the-scenes look this summer as they completed internships at WMA. The two art students from Troy University’s main campus gained experience serving as docents, assisting in summer camps, installing exhibitions, and volunteering at museum events. WMA’s staff loved working with […]
Yard Party for Art, the HOTTEST party of the year, returns to WMA’s garden
On Saturday, August 11, with the support of our community, the Wiregrass Museum of Art turned its garden into a summertime oasis at Yard Party for Art. It was a beautiful evening of music, art, entertainment, and food and drinks. Yard Party for Art goes beyond just one night. This year’s proceeds will fund innovative […]
Corporate Member Spotlight: SunSouth Bank
The corporate member program at WMA is supported by diverse industries across the Wiregrass business community; what unifies them all is their belief in WMA’s ability to be a cultural-gathering place for local residents. Leila Smith, Vice President and Branch Manager of SunSouth Bank, spoke with WMA about how the arts can impact communities in […]
Letter from the Director – Summer
Dear Friends and Members, It is officially the summer season, and the museum is buzzing with activity. As I write this letter, I keep reflecting on the students in our first summer camp last week, learning about what we do behind the scenes, before heading to our studio to make unique pieces inspired by works […]
WMA and City of Dothan select summer artist-in-residence for Highway 84 E corridor project
DOTHAN, Alabama – July 3, 2018 – The Wiregrass Museum of Art (WMA), in partnership with the City of Dothan, is pleased to announce it has selected mural artist Cosby Hayes to serve as an artist-in-residence in Dothan from June 1 through August 31 to gather community input for the City’s Highway 84 East corridor improvement project. The […]
Wiregrass Museum of Art Hosts Alabama History Institute, June 18-21
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Andi Martin, Alabama Bicentennial Commission 334-242-5864, andi.martin@bicentennial.alabama.gov Wiregrass Museum of Art Hosts Alabama History Institute, June 18-21 Montgomery, AL (June 18, 2018) – The Wiregrass Museum of Art in Dothan will host an Alabama History Institute (AHI) for grades 3-5 teachers and administrators entitled Our Roots Run Deep: Digging Up Alabama’s Rich Farming History. Sponsored by the Alabama Bicentennial Commission and the Alabama […]
WMA and City of Dothan partner in Call for Artists for Highway 84 E corridor project
DOTHAN, Alabama – May 15, 2018 – The Wiregrass Museum of Art (WMA), in partnership with the City of Dothan, is pleased to announce a Call for Artists for a summer residency to take place between June 1 and August 31 to study transportation needs along the U.S. 84 East corridor — a stretch of highway […]
WMA receives $10,000 for youth education programs
DOTHAN, Alabama – April 26, 2018 – The Wiregrass Museum of Art (WMA) is pleased to announce it has received two grants for youth art education totaling $10,000. A $5,000 award from Wiregrass Foundation will fund WMA’s six summer camp offerings, as well as outreach camps to the Hawk Houston Youth Enrichment Center and the […]
‘Alabama Reckoner’ honors the state’s living artists and unique ecology
DOTHAN, Ala. – April 11, 2017- The Wiregrass Museum of Art (WMA) announces the opening of “Alabama Reckoner,” featuring the work of Birmingham-based artist Douglas Pierre Baulos. The exhibition is an exploration of Baulos’ process-driven work and the role the state of Alabama plays in his art. “Alabama Reckoner” will present twelve mixed-media portraits of […]
Corporate Member Spotlight: LBA
WMA’s corporate members believe in the transformative power of art, and are committed to supporting the museum’s programs and exhibitions. We chatted with Beau Benton, President of LBA, about their company’s role in the Wiregrass community. LBA supports WMA as a Supporter level corporate member. WMA: What would you like our other corporate members and […]
Letter from the Director – Spring
Dear WMA Members and Friends, WMA is a place to be inspired, to learn, and to gather as a community year-round. This quarter we are making meaningful connections through new exhibitions, programs, and initiatives that are bringing artists and ideas together, right here in the Wiregrass. Last quarter I mentioned to you all that we […]
Youth Write Night 2018
To coincide with the national celebration of Youth Art Month and WMA’s exhibition, we hosted our first ever Youth Write Night, inviting 7th-12th grade students to share an original written work. The night was a wonderful success with 15 students presenting! Participants came out from Girard Middle School, Beverlye Magnet School, Dothan High School, Chipley […]
WMA accepted into national preservation program
DOTHAN, Alabama – March 6, 2018 – The Wiregrass Museum of Art (WMA) is pleased to announce its acceptance to the 2018 Collections Assessment for Preservation (CAP) program with the American Institute for the Conservation of Historic and Artistic Works. WMA was selected into the CAP program in a highly competitive year, with 60% more […]
WMA Participates in Geneva Program Outreach
As an educator, nothing makes me happier than being able to share my passion for art with students. While the galleries provide the ideal platform to show incredible artwork from astounding artists, not everyone is able to make the trip out. Thankfully, WMA is able to go outside our walls with outreach programs, including Artful […]
WMA receives oak tree during Arbor Day celebration
The Wiregrass Museum of Art was recently selected by the City of Dothan to be the recipient of its annual Arbor Day tree planting. A live oak was chosen and was planted on the museum’s grounds. Dothan is an official Tree City USA community, one of 71 in the state, and the City has participated […]
WMA Receives $5,000 ASCA Grant
WMA receives $5,000 ASCA grant for digital learning DOTHAN, Alabama – January 30, 2018 – The Wiregrass Museum of Art (WMA) is pleased to announce it has received grant funding in the amount of $5,000 from the Alabama State Council on the Arts (ASCA). The money will be used to support the implementation of technology […]
Corporate Member Spotlight: ServisFirst Bank
WMA’s corporate members believe in the transformative power of art, and are committed to supporting the museum’s programs and exhibitions. We chatted with Harrison Morris, CEO and President of ServisFirst Bank, about their company’s role in the Wiregrass community. ServisFirst supports WMA as a Patron level corporate member. WMA: ServisFirst Bank will celebrate the 10th […]
Letter from the Director – Winter
Dear Friends and Members, January is the month most associated with fresh starts, and a new year. While we are always looking forward here at WMA, and there is much to look forward to, none of our work is exactly “new,” as much of our upcoming plans center on great experiences that the museum offers […]