Facebook: Homecoming Postgame Party at KC’s Sports Bistro
February Scavenger Hunt event page on Facebook.
• Ice cream mural – Spring Dipper, 675 Missouri Avenue.
• Tooth Fairy mural – Healthy Smiles Dental Clinic, 1710 W. Broadway
• Locks and Lashes mural, 133 Jefferson Avenue
Free admission, donations welcome.
harlinmuseum.com or Harlin Museum of West Plains on Facebook for more information.
February Scavenger Hunt event page on Facebook.
• Ice cream mural – Spring Dipper, 675 Missouri Avenue.
• Tooth Fairy mural – Healthy Smiles Dental Clinic, 1710 W. Broadway
• Locks and Lashes mural, 133 Jefferson Avenue
The Ozarks Small Business Incubator (OzSBI) has extended the Art and Words in Motion exhibit by Shane Baker through the end of May. The exhibit is available for viewing on the second floor of OzSBI during business hours, between 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Shane Baker, an Ozark native, was born and raised in Mammoth Spring, Arkansas. As an undergraduate at Arkansas State University, Shane took art classes and explored his artistic side, but decided that teaching was his calling. After graduating with a degree in Elementary Education, he taught for 32 years. He became an Elementary Reading Specialist, curriculum director, college professor and education consultant. Throughout his career, Baker maintained his interest and love of art and the artistic process.
In 2010, while visiting a local furniture dealer, Baker saw a pile of corrugated cardboard. The cardboard was to be thrown out, but Baker asked if he could take the cardboard and recycle it. He took it home and began experimenting. Using some of that recycled cardboard, and other recycled items, Shane created his first mobile. During the years that followed, his technique for creating objects from cardboard, hot glue and paint has improved and he now creates items full of detail and nuance. In this exhibit, you’ll see kayaks, french fries, jester hats, fish, roses and much more.
Each mobile has a theme and they range from darker subjects like hate crimes and COVID-19 to words of endearment and even floating on the river. Some mobiles look at the lives of well-known personalities such as Picasso and Gertrude Stein. Others consider the reincarnation of diabetics, political pumpkins and even a celebration of our humble shoes.
The mobiles will be available for viewing in OzSBI’s upstairs gallery through May 2023. Visitors may view the display at the incubator during OzSBI’s business hours, anytime between 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.
February Scavenger Hunt event page on Facebook.
• Ice cream mural – Spring Dipper, 675 Missouri Avenue.
• Tooth Fairy mural – Healthy Smiles Dental Clinic, 1710 W. Broadway
• Locks and Lashes mural, 133 Jefferson Avenue

The West Plains Council on the Arts (WPCA) and Ozarks Small Business Incubator (OzSBI) have partnered to bring quarterly art displays to the incubator. Local photographer Melissa Wharton’s works will be featured inside OzSBI’s first floor January 3 through the end of March 2023. Visitors may view the display at the incubator during OzSBI’s business hours, anytime between 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday.
WPCA Coordinator Janey Hale describes the works, “Capturing the beauty of her surroundings, Melissa reveals a true understanding of all nature has to offer. Her photography presents an opportunity for the viewer to experience places they might not see otherwise.”
Growing up in West Plains, Wharton has always had an interest in the Ozarks mills and springs. Starting with her grandparents taking her on frequent visits to Rockbridge Mill, Wharton began photographing travel outings at a young age. This interest led her to a bachelor’s degree in studio art with an emphasis in graphic design and photography. A career spanning three decades has always included roles where she can be creative.
Wharton recently won first place in the People Category in a photography contest in Terrain Magazine. The photo features Wharton’s son, Sawyer Smith, in the wheel at Turner Mill.
Her current position as tourism manager for the City of West Plains embodies all her previous work into one: graphic design, photography, writing, public relations, and retail. Being able to explore the Ozarks and capture its beauty in photos is now one of her job duties. Sharing the Ozarks with others is just a perk of the job. She is embarrassed to admit that all her photos are captured on her cell phone, but it is the years of training and the artistic eye that make the difference.
Artist Statement:
“Having grown up and lived in the West Plains area most of my life, I have always had an interest in photographing the Ozarks. Two years ago, when I was hired by the City of West Plains, this passion became a part of my job. I now have the honor to photograph and promote our beautiful area that we get to call home.
“For this show, I wanted to share some of my travels from 2022. My husband owns Bartlett Moving Services, and I am lucky enough to tag along sometimes. The show will feature a few photos of the Ozarks, but also will feature photos from a couple of moves that I went along on: Seattle and Vermont. The journey there is half the fun (especially in a moving truck).”
A Meet-the-Artist event will be held on Thursday, January 19, 2-4 p.m. in OzSBI’s lobby at 408 Washington Ave. in West Plains. The public is invited to attend to meet Wharton and view and discuss the pieces on display.
For more information about the exhibit, contact Madison Sutterfield madisonsutterfield@ozsbi.com at OzSBI or WPCA Coordinator Janey Hale at jhale2129@gmail.com.
The Ozarks Small Business Incubator (OzSBI) has extended the Art and Words in Motion exhibit by Shane Baker through the end of May. The exhibit is available for viewing on the second floor of OzSBI during business hours, between 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Shane Baker, an Ozark native, was born and raised in Mammoth Spring, Arkansas. As an undergraduate at Arkansas State University, Shane took art classes and explored his artistic side, but decided that teaching was his calling. After graduating with a degree in Elementary Education, he taught for 32 years. He became an Elementary Reading Specialist, curriculum director, college professor and education consultant. Throughout his career, Baker maintained his interest and love of art and the artistic process.
In 2010, while visiting a local furniture dealer, Baker saw a pile of corrugated cardboard. The cardboard was to be thrown out, but Baker asked if he could take the cardboard and recycle it. He took it home and began experimenting. Using some of that recycled cardboard, and other recycled items, Shane created his first mobile. During the years that followed, his technique for creating objects from cardboard, hot glue and paint has improved and he now creates items full of detail and nuance. In this exhibit, you’ll see kayaks, french fries, jester hats, fish, roses and much more.
Each mobile has a theme and they range from darker subjects like hate crimes and COVID-19 to words of endearment and even floating on the river. Some mobiles look at the lives of well-known personalities such as Picasso and Gertrude Stein. Others consider the reincarnation of diabetics, political pumpkins and even a celebration of our humble shoes.
The mobiles will be available for viewing in OzSBI’s upstairs gallery through May 2023. Visitors may view the display at the incubator during OzSBI’s business hours, anytime between 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Ten vendors from Go Farm Farmers Market will be selling indoors at the OzSBI Pop Up Shop in Downtown West Plains starting January 9 through the end of March.
Participating vendors include:
Brassfield Farms
Falling Spring Farms – Kombucha & Fine Ferments
Foodie’s Fare
Garden Worx
JUS’ FARMIN’
Ozark Fruit Company LLC
Pure Beth
Ron’s Microgreens & More
Secret Springs Farms
Sullana Farm & Homestead
February Scavenger Hunt event page on Facebook.
• Ice cream mural – Spring Dipper, 675 Missouri Avenue.
• Tooth Fairy mural – Healthy Smiles Dental Clinic, 1710 W. Broadway
• Locks and Lashes mural, 133 Jefferson Avenue

The West Plains Council on the Arts (WPCA) and Ozarks Small Business Incubator (OzSBI) have partnered to bring quarterly art displays to the incubator. Local photographer Melissa Wharton’s works will be featured inside OzSBI’s first floor January 3 through the end of March 2023. Visitors may view the display at the incubator during OzSBI’s business hours, anytime between 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday.
WPCA Coordinator Janey Hale describes the works, “Capturing the beauty of her surroundings, Melissa reveals a true understanding of all nature has to offer. Her photography presents an opportunity for the viewer to experience places they might not see otherwise.”
Growing up in West Plains, Wharton has always had an interest in the Ozarks mills and springs. Starting with her grandparents taking her on frequent visits to Rockbridge Mill, Wharton began photographing travel outings at a young age. This interest led her to a bachelor’s degree in studio art with an emphasis in graphic design and photography. A career spanning three decades has always included roles where she can be creative.
Wharton recently won first place in the People Category in a photography contest in Terrain Magazine. The photo features Wharton’s son, Sawyer Smith, in the wheel at Turner Mill.
Her current position as tourism manager for the City of West Plains embodies all her previous work into one: graphic design, photography, writing, public relations, and retail. Being able to explore the Ozarks and capture its beauty in photos is now one of her job duties. Sharing the Ozarks with others is just a perk of the job. She is embarrassed to admit that all her photos are captured on her cell phone, but it is the years of training and the artistic eye that make the difference.
Artist Statement:
“Having grown up and lived in the West Plains area most of my life, I have always had an interest in photographing the Ozarks. Two years ago, when I was hired by the City of West Plains, this passion became a part of my job. I now have the honor to photograph and promote our beautiful area that we get to call home.
“For this show, I wanted to share some of my travels from 2022. My husband owns Bartlett Moving Services, and I am lucky enough to tag along sometimes. The show will feature a few photos of the Ozarks, but also will feature photos from a couple of moves that I went along on: Seattle and Vermont. The journey there is half the fun (especially in a moving truck).”
A Meet-the-Artist event will be held on Thursday, January 19, 2-4 p.m. in OzSBI’s lobby at 408 Washington Ave. in West Plains. The public is invited to attend to meet Wharton and view and discuss the pieces on display.
For more information about the exhibit, contact Madison Sutterfield madisonsutterfield@ozsbi.com at OzSBI or WPCA Coordinator Janey Hale at jhale2129@gmail.com.
The Ozarks Small Business Incubator (OzSBI) has extended the Art and Words in Motion exhibit by Shane Baker through the end of May. The exhibit is available for viewing on the second floor of OzSBI during business hours, between 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Shane Baker, an Ozark native, was born and raised in Mammoth Spring, Arkansas. As an undergraduate at Arkansas State University, Shane took art classes and explored his artistic side, but decided that teaching was his calling. After graduating with a degree in Elementary Education, he taught for 32 years. He became an Elementary Reading Specialist, curriculum director, college professor and education consultant. Throughout his career, Baker maintained his interest and love of art and the artistic process.
In 2010, while visiting a local furniture dealer, Baker saw a pile of corrugated cardboard. The cardboard was to be thrown out, but Baker asked if he could take the cardboard and recycle it. He took it home and began experimenting. Using some of that recycled cardboard, and other recycled items, Shane created his first mobile. During the years that followed, his technique for creating objects from cardboard, hot glue and paint has improved and he now creates items full of detail and nuance. In this exhibit, you’ll see kayaks, french fries, jester hats, fish, roses and much more.
Each mobile has a theme and they range from darker subjects like hate crimes and COVID-19 to words of endearment and even floating on the river. Some mobiles look at the lives of well-known personalities such as Picasso and Gertrude Stein. Others consider the reincarnation of diabetics, political pumpkins and even a celebration of our humble shoes.
The mobiles will be available for viewing in OzSBI’s upstairs gallery through May 2023. Visitors may view the display at the incubator during OzSBI’s business hours, anytime between 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Ten vendors from Go Farm Farmers Market will be selling indoors at the OzSBI Pop Up Shop in Downtown West Plains starting January 9 through the end of March.
Participating vendors include:
Brassfield Farms
Falling Spring Farms – Kombucha & Fine Ferments
Foodie’s Fare
Garden Worx
JUS’ FARMIN’
Ozark Fruit Company LLC
Pure Beth
Ron’s Microgreens & More
Secret Springs Farms
Sullana Farm & Homestead
Ozark Artery, in partnership with The Yellow House, is hosting a multi-media, red-themed art exhibit in February. RED, a specially curated art event, will kick off with a free reception, open to all, to be held on Feb. 14, 6-8 p.m. It will also be available for viewing on Wednesdays, Feb. 15 and 22, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Thursdays, Feb. 16 and 23, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
For more information, see ‘Ozark Artery’ on Facebook.
February Scavenger Hunt event page on Facebook.
• Ice cream mural – Spring Dipper, 675 Missouri Avenue.
• Tooth Fairy mural – Healthy Smiles Dental Clinic, 1710 W. Broadway
• Locks and Lashes mural, 133 Jefferson Avenue

The West Plains Council on the Arts (WPCA) and Ozarks Small Business Incubator (OzSBI) have partnered to bring quarterly art displays to the incubator. Local photographer Melissa Wharton’s works will be featured inside OzSBI’s first floor January 3 through the end of March 2023. Visitors may view the display at the incubator during OzSBI’s business hours, anytime between 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday.
WPCA Coordinator Janey Hale describes the works, “Capturing the beauty of her surroundings, Melissa reveals a true understanding of all nature has to offer. Her photography presents an opportunity for the viewer to experience places they might not see otherwise.”
Growing up in West Plains, Wharton has always had an interest in the Ozarks mills and springs. Starting with her grandparents taking her on frequent visits to Rockbridge Mill, Wharton began photographing travel outings at a young age. This interest led her to a bachelor’s degree in studio art with an emphasis in graphic design and photography. A career spanning three decades has always included roles where she can be creative.
Wharton recently won first place in the People Category in a photography contest in Terrain Magazine. The photo features Wharton’s son, Sawyer Smith, in the wheel at Turner Mill.
Her current position as tourism manager for the City of West Plains embodies all her previous work into one: graphic design, photography, writing, public relations, and retail. Being able to explore the Ozarks and capture its beauty in photos is now one of her job duties. Sharing the Ozarks with others is just a perk of the job. She is embarrassed to admit that all her photos are captured on her cell phone, but it is the years of training and the artistic eye that make the difference.
Artist Statement:
“Having grown up and lived in the West Plains area most of my life, I have always had an interest in photographing the Ozarks. Two years ago, when I was hired by the City of West Plains, this passion became a part of my job. I now have the honor to photograph and promote our beautiful area that we get to call home.
“For this show, I wanted to share some of my travels from 2022. My husband owns Bartlett Moving Services, and I am lucky enough to tag along sometimes. The show will feature a few photos of the Ozarks, but also will feature photos from a couple of moves that I went along on: Seattle and Vermont. The journey there is half the fun (especially in a moving truck).”
A Meet-the-Artist event will be held on Thursday, January 19, 2-4 p.m. in OzSBI’s lobby at 408 Washington Ave. in West Plains. The public is invited to attend to meet Wharton and view and discuss the pieces on display.
For more information about the exhibit, contact Madison Sutterfield madisonsutterfield@ozsbi.com at OzSBI or WPCA Coordinator Janey Hale at jhale2129@gmail.com.
The Ozarks Small Business Incubator (OzSBI) has extended the Art and Words in Motion exhibit by Shane Baker through the end of May. The exhibit is available for viewing on the second floor of OzSBI during business hours, between 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Shane Baker, an Ozark native, was born and raised in Mammoth Spring, Arkansas. As an undergraduate at Arkansas State University, Shane took art classes and explored his artistic side, but decided that teaching was his calling. After graduating with a degree in Elementary Education, he taught for 32 years. He became an Elementary Reading Specialist, curriculum director, college professor and education consultant. Throughout his career, Baker maintained his interest and love of art and the artistic process.
In 2010, while visiting a local furniture dealer, Baker saw a pile of corrugated cardboard. The cardboard was to be thrown out, but Baker asked if he could take the cardboard and recycle it. He took it home and began experimenting. Using some of that recycled cardboard, and other recycled items, Shane created his first mobile. During the years that followed, his technique for creating objects from cardboard, hot glue and paint has improved and he now creates items full of detail and nuance. In this exhibit, you’ll see kayaks, french fries, jester hats, fish, roses and much more.
Each mobile has a theme and they range from darker subjects like hate crimes and COVID-19 to words of endearment and even floating on the river. Some mobiles look at the lives of well-known personalities such as Picasso and Gertrude Stein. Others consider the reincarnation of diabetics, political pumpkins and even a celebration of our humble shoes.
The mobiles will be available for viewing in OzSBI’s upstairs gallery through May 2023. Visitors may view the display at the incubator during OzSBI’s business hours, anytime between 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Ozark Artery, in partnership with The Yellow House, is hosting a multi-media, red-themed art exhibit in February. RED, a specially curated art event, will kick off with a free reception, open to all, to be held on Feb. 14, 6-8 p.m. It will also be available for viewing on Wednesdays, Feb. 15 and 22, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Thursdays, Feb. 16 and 23, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Ten vendors from Go Farm Farmers Market will be selling indoors at the OzSBI Pop Up Shop in Downtown West Plains starting January 9 through the end of March.
Participating vendors include:
Brassfield Farms
Falling Spring Farms – Kombucha & Fine Ferments
Foodie’s Fare
Garden Worx
JUS’ FARMIN’
Ozark Fruit Company LLC
Pure Beth
Ron’s Microgreens & More
Secret Springs Farms
Sullana Farm & Homestead
Free admission, donations welcome.
harlinmuseum.com or Harlin Museum of West Plains on Facebook for more information.
February Scavenger Hunt event page on Facebook.
• Ice cream mural – Spring Dipper, 675 Missouri Avenue.
• Tooth Fairy mural – Healthy Smiles Dental Clinic, 1710 W. Broadway
• Locks and Lashes mural, 133 Jefferson Avenue

The West Plains Council on the Arts (WPCA) and Ozarks Small Business Incubator (OzSBI) have partnered to bring quarterly art displays to the incubator. Local photographer Melissa Wharton’s works will be featured inside OzSBI’s first floor January 3 through the end of March 2023. Visitors may view the display at the incubator during OzSBI’s business hours, anytime between 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday.
WPCA Coordinator Janey Hale describes the works, “Capturing the beauty of her surroundings, Melissa reveals a true understanding of all nature has to offer. Her photography presents an opportunity for the viewer to experience places they might not see otherwise.”
Growing up in West Plains, Wharton has always had an interest in the Ozarks mills and springs. Starting with her grandparents taking her on frequent visits to Rockbridge Mill, Wharton began photographing travel outings at a young age. This interest led her to a bachelor’s degree in studio art with an emphasis in graphic design and photography. A career spanning three decades has always included roles where she can be creative.
Wharton recently won first place in the People Category in a photography contest in Terrain Magazine. The photo features Wharton’s son, Sawyer Smith, in the wheel at Turner Mill.
Her current position as tourism manager for the City of West Plains embodies all her previous work into one: graphic design, photography, writing, public relations, and retail. Being able to explore the Ozarks and capture its beauty in photos is now one of her job duties. Sharing the Ozarks with others is just a perk of the job. She is embarrassed to admit that all her photos are captured on her cell phone, but it is the years of training and the artistic eye that make the difference.
Artist Statement:
“Having grown up and lived in the West Plains area most of my life, I have always had an interest in photographing the Ozarks. Two years ago, when I was hired by the City of West Plains, this passion became a part of my job. I now have the honor to photograph and promote our beautiful area that we get to call home.
“For this show, I wanted to share some of my travels from 2022. My husband owns Bartlett Moving Services, and I am lucky enough to tag along sometimes. The show will feature a few photos of the Ozarks, but also will feature photos from a couple of moves that I went along on: Seattle and Vermont. The journey there is half the fun (especially in a moving truck).”
A Meet-the-Artist event will be held on Thursday, January 19, 2-4 p.m. in OzSBI’s lobby at 408 Washington Ave. in West Plains. The public is invited to attend to meet Wharton and view and discuss the pieces on display.
For more information about the exhibit, contact Madison Sutterfield madisonsutterfield@ozsbi.com at OzSBI or WPCA Coordinator Janey Hale at jhale2129@gmail.com.
The Ozarks Small Business Incubator (OzSBI) has extended the Art and Words in Motion exhibit by Shane Baker through the end of May. The exhibit is available for viewing on the second floor of OzSBI during business hours, between 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Shane Baker, an Ozark native, was born and raised in Mammoth Spring, Arkansas. As an undergraduate at Arkansas State University, Shane took art classes and explored his artistic side, but decided that teaching was his calling. After graduating with a degree in Elementary Education, he taught for 32 years. He became an Elementary Reading Specialist, curriculum director, college professor and education consultant. Throughout his career, Baker maintained his interest and love of art and the artistic process.
In 2010, while visiting a local furniture dealer, Baker saw a pile of corrugated cardboard. The cardboard was to be thrown out, but Baker asked if he could take the cardboard and recycle it. He took it home and began experimenting. Using some of that recycled cardboard, and other recycled items, Shane created his first mobile. During the years that followed, his technique for creating objects from cardboard, hot glue and paint has improved and he now creates items full of detail and nuance. In this exhibit, you’ll see kayaks, french fries, jester hats, fish, roses and much more.
Each mobile has a theme and they range from darker subjects like hate crimes and COVID-19 to words of endearment and even floating on the river. Some mobiles look at the lives of well-known personalities such as Picasso and Gertrude Stein. Others consider the reincarnation of diabetics, political pumpkins and even a celebration of our humble shoes.
The mobiles will be available for viewing in OzSBI’s upstairs gallery through May 2023. Visitors may view the display at the incubator during OzSBI’s business hours, anytime between 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Ten vendors from Go Farm Farmers Market will be selling indoors at the OzSBI Pop Up Shop in Downtown West Plains starting January 9 through the end of March.
Participating vendors include:
Brassfield Farms
Falling Spring Farms – Kombucha & Fine Ferments
Foodie’s Fare
Garden Worx
JUS’ FARMIN’
Ozark Fruit Company LLC
Pure Beth
Ron’s Microgreens & More
Secret Springs Farms
Sullana Farm & Homestead
Free admission, donations welcome.
harlinmuseum.com or Harlin Museum of West Plains on Facebook for more information.
Dance or just enjoy the music. All ages invited. 7:00 P.M., admission is $6.00.
February Scavenger Hunt event page on Facebook.
• Ice cream mural – Spring Dipper, 675 Missouri Avenue.
• Tooth Fairy mural – Healthy Smiles Dental Clinic, 1710 W. Broadway
• Locks and Lashes mural, 133 Jefferson Avenue

Free admission, donations welcome.
harlinmuseum.com or Harlin Museum of West Plains on Facebook for more information.

The West Plains Council on the Arts (WPCA) and West Plains Public Library (WPPL) will partner to bring quarterly art displays to the library. Students from West Plains High School and Middle School, along with Southfork students, will contribute to the initial display to be featured January through mid-March 2023. Visitors may view the display at the library during open hours, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday-Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday.
A Meet-the-Artists event will be held on Saturday, February 25, 2023, 12-2 p.m. at the library, 750 West Main St. in West Plains. The public is invited to attend, meet the young artists, view, and discuss the pieces on display.
WPCA Coordinator Janey Hale says, “We are fortunate to display the works of local students. The work of young artists in both fresh and exciting. To see their technical ability is amazing, but what is most exciting is their fresh approach to art; unencumbered by what one might consider traditional art.”
WPPL Director Shawnie Kennedy shares, “We are so excited to have this partnership with the Council on the Arts coming to the library! We know there are many young artists out there, and it will be a pleasure to display the talent and creativity of our great city for all the community to see.”
For more information about the exhibit, contact Shawnie Kennedy Shawnie.Kennedy@westplains.gov at the library or WPCA Coordinator Janey Hale at jhale2129@gmail.com.
From organizer:
Food, dancing, many selfie opportunities, and lots of fun.
$20.00 a couple $5 for extra daughter
PLEASE PURCHASE IN ADVANCE
2 nights to choose from
See complete information on Facebook event page. Rubydoo’s Father/Daughter Dance 6th annual.
See Jessamyn Orchard’s Pajammy Jams Sonic Electronic Experience on Facebook.
From Wages: Join us for a special Jessamyn Orchard show…. Pajammy Jams Sonic Electronic Experience!
YES! To a sweet lo-fi electronic experience
YES! need we say more?
YES! No cover charge!
February Scavenger Hunt event page on Facebook.
• Ice cream mural – Spring Dipper, 675 Missouri Avenue.
• Tooth Fairy mural – Healthy Smiles Dental Clinic, 1710 W. Broadway
• Locks and Lashes mural, 133 Jefferson Avenue
Free admission, donations welcome.
harlinmuseum.com or Harlin Museum of West Plains on Facebook for more information.
February Scavenger Hunt event page on Facebook.
• Ice cream mural – Spring Dipper, 675 Missouri Avenue.
• Tooth Fairy mural – Healthy Smiles Dental Clinic, 1710 W. Broadway
• Locks and Lashes mural, 133 Jefferson Avenue

The West Plains Council on the Arts (WPCA) and Ozarks Small Business Incubator (OzSBI) have partnered to bring quarterly art displays to the incubator. Local photographer Melissa Wharton’s works will be featured inside OzSBI’s first floor January 3 through the end of March 2023. Visitors may view the display at the incubator during OzSBI’s business hours, anytime between 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday.
WPCA Coordinator Janey Hale describes the works, “Capturing the beauty of her surroundings, Melissa reveals a true understanding of all nature has to offer. Her photography presents an opportunity for the viewer to experience places they might not see otherwise.”
Growing up in West Plains, Wharton has always had an interest in the Ozarks mills and springs. Starting with her grandparents taking her on frequent visits to Rockbridge Mill, Wharton began photographing travel outings at a young age. This interest led her to a bachelor’s degree in studio art with an emphasis in graphic design and photography. A career spanning three decades has always included roles where she can be creative.
Wharton recently won first place in the People Category in a photography contest in Terrain Magazine. The photo features Wharton’s son, Sawyer Smith, in the wheel at Turner Mill.
Her current position as tourism manager for the City of West Plains embodies all her previous work into one: graphic design, photography, writing, public relations, and retail. Being able to explore the Ozarks and capture its beauty in photos is now one of her job duties. Sharing the Ozarks with others is just a perk of the job. She is embarrassed to admit that all her photos are captured on her cell phone, but it is the years of training and the artistic eye that make the difference.
Artist Statement:
“Having grown up and lived in the West Plains area most of my life, I have always had an interest in photographing the Ozarks. Two years ago, when I was hired by the City of West Plains, this passion became a part of my job. I now have the honor to photograph and promote our beautiful area that we get to call home.
“For this show, I wanted to share some of my travels from 2022. My husband owns Bartlett Moving Services, and I am lucky enough to tag along sometimes. The show will feature a few photos of the Ozarks, but also will feature photos from a couple of moves that I went along on: Seattle and Vermont. The journey there is half the fun (especially in a moving truck).”
A Meet-the-Artist event will be held on Thursday, January 19, 2-4 p.m. in OzSBI’s lobby at 408 Washington Ave. in West Plains. The public is invited to attend to meet Wharton and view and discuss the pieces on display.
For more information about the exhibit, contact Madison Sutterfield madisonsutterfield@ozsbi.com at OzSBI or WPCA Coordinator Janey Hale at jhale2129@gmail.com.
The Ozarks Small Business Incubator (OzSBI) has extended the Art and Words in Motion exhibit by Shane Baker through the end of May. The exhibit is available for viewing on the second floor of OzSBI during business hours, between 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Shane Baker, an Ozark native, was born and raised in Mammoth Spring, Arkansas. As an undergraduate at Arkansas State University, Shane took art classes and explored his artistic side, but decided that teaching was his calling. After graduating with a degree in Elementary Education, he taught for 32 years. He became an Elementary Reading Specialist, curriculum director, college professor and education consultant. Throughout his career, Baker maintained his interest and love of art and the artistic process.
In 2010, while visiting a local furniture dealer, Baker saw a pile of corrugated cardboard. The cardboard was to be thrown out, but Baker asked if he could take the cardboard and recycle it. He took it home and began experimenting. Using some of that recycled cardboard, and other recycled items, Shane created his first mobile. During the years that followed, his technique for creating objects from cardboard, hot glue and paint has improved and he now creates items full of detail and nuance. In this exhibit, you’ll see kayaks, french fries, jester hats, fish, roses and much more.
Each mobile has a theme and they range from darker subjects like hate crimes and COVID-19 to words of endearment and even floating on the river. Some mobiles look at the lives of well-known personalities such as Picasso and Gertrude Stein. Others consider the reincarnation of diabetics, political pumpkins and even a celebration of our humble shoes.
The mobiles will be available for viewing in OzSBI’s upstairs gallery through May 2023. Visitors may view the display at the incubator during OzSBI’s business hours, anytime between 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Ten vendors from Go Farm Farmers Market will be selling indoors at the OzSBI Pop Up Shop in Downtown West Plains starting January 9 through the end of March.
Participating vendors include:
Brassfield Farms
Falling Spring Farms – Kombucha & Fine Ferments
Foodie’s Fare
Garden Worx
JUS’ FARMIN’
Ozark Fruit Company LLC
Pure Beth
Ron’s Microgreens & More
Secret Springs Farms
Sullana Farm & Homestead
See legitspeedway.com for full schedule and details.
February Scavenger Hunt event page on Facebook.
• Ice cream mural – Spring Dipper, 675 Missouri Avenue.
• Tooth Fairy mural – Healthy Smiles Dental Clinic, 1710 W. Broadway
• Locks and Lashes mural, 133 Jefferson Avenue

The West Plains Council on the Arts (WPCA) and Ozarks Small Business Incubator (OzSBI) have partnered to bring quarterly art displays to the incubator. Local photographer Melissa Wharton’s works will be featured inside OzSBI’s first floor January 3 through the end of March 2023. Visitors may view the display at the incubator during OzSBI’s business hours, anytime between 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday.
WPCA Coordinator Janey Hale describes the works, “Capturing the beauty of her surroundings, Melissa reveals a true understanding of all nature has to offer. Her photography presents an opportunity for the viewer to experience places they might not see otherwise.”
Growing up in West Plains, Wharton has always had an interest in the Ozarks mills and springs. Starting with her grandparents taking her on frequent visits to Rockbridge Mill, Wharton began photographing travel outings at a young age. This interest led her to a bachelor’s degree in studio art with an emphasis in graphic design and photography. A career spanning three decades has always included roles where she can be creative.
Wharton recently won first place in the People Category in a photography contest in Terrain Magazine. The photo features Wharton’s son, Sawyer Smith, in the wheel at Turner Mill.
Her current position as tourism manager for the City of West Plains embodies all her previous work into one: graphic design, photography, writing, public relations, and retail. Being able to explore the Ozarks and capture its beauty in photos is now one of her job duties. Sharing the Ozarks with others is just a perk of the job. She is embarrassed to admit that all her photos are captured on her cell phone, but it is the years of training and the artistic eye that make the difference.
Artist Statement:
“Having grown up and lived in the West Plains area most of my life, I have always had an interest in photographing the Ozarks. Two years ago, when I was hired by the City of West Plains, this passion became a part of my job. I now have the honor to photograph and promote our beautiful area that we get to call home.
“For this show, I wanted to share some of my travels from 2022. My husband owns Bartlett Moving Services, and I am lucky enough to tag along sometimes. The show will feature a few photos of the Ozarks, but also will feature photos from a couple of moves that I went along on: Seattle and Vermont. The journey there is half the fun (especially in a moving truck).”
A Meet-the-Artist event will be held on Thursday, January 19, 2-4 p.m. in OzSBI’s lobby at 408 Washington Ave. in West Plains. The public is invited to attend to meet Wharton and view and discuss the pieces on display.
For more information about the exhibit, contact Madison Sutterfield madisonsutterfield@ozsbi.com at OzSBI or WPCA Coordinator Janey Hale at jhale2129@gmail.com.
The Ozarks Small Business Incubator (OzSBI) has extended the Art and Words in Motion exhibit by Shane Baker through the end of May. The exhibit is available for viewing on the second floor of OzSBI during business hours, between 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Shane Baker, an Ozark native, was born and raised in Mammoth Spring, Arkansas. As an undergraduate at Arkansas State University, Shane took art classes and explored his artistic side, but decided that teaching was his calling. After graduating with a degree in Elementary Education, he taught for 32 years. He became an Elementary Reading Specialist, curriculum director, college professor and education consultant. Throughout his career, Baker maintained his interest and love of art and the artistic process.
In 2010, while visiting a local furniture dealer, Baker saw a pile of corrugated cardboard. The cardboard was to be thrown out, but Baker asked if he could take the cardboard and recycle it. He took it home and began experimenting. Using some of that recycled cardboard, and other recycled items, Shane created his first mobile. During the years that followed, his technique for creating objects from cardboard, hot glue and paint has improved and he now creates items full of detail and nuance. In this exhibit, you’ll see kayaks, french fries, jester hats, fish, roses and much more.
Each mobile has a theme and they range from darker subjects like hate crimes and COVID-19 to words of endearment and even floating on the river. Some mobiles look at the lives of well-known personalities such as Picasso and Gertrude Stein. Others consider the reincarnation of diabetics, political pumpkins and even a celebration of our humble shoes.
The mobiles will be available for viewing in OzSBI’s upstairs gallery through May 2023. Visitors may view the display at the incubator during OzSBI’s business hours, anytime between 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Ten vendors from Go Farm Farmers Market will be selling indoors at the OzSBI Pop Up Shop in Downtown West Plains starting January 9 through the end of March.
Participating vendors include:
Brassfield Farms
Falling Spring Farms – Kombucha & Fine Ferments
Foodie’s Fare
Garden Worx
JUS’ FARMIN’
Ozark Fruit Company LLC
Pure Beth
Ron’s Microgreens & More
Secret Springs Farms
Sullana Farm & Homestead
