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 artist Barbara Robinette’s works will be featured inside OzSBI’s first floor March 31 through the end of June 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, “Barbara’s watercolors are loose, colorful, and nostalgic; reminding one of times gone by.”

About the artist:

Though she minored in art, Barbara Robinette dropped out of college to go to work and learn on her own. She is a member of West Plains Ventures in Art group and is self-taught in the art of watercolor.  Robinette also is a free verse poet, leaning today towards haiga art, which combines images with haiku. Daily Haiga has posted online five of her haiga, and Quill and Parchment poetry journal has featured some of her art online. Highland Park Poetry Publications has published one of her haiga in their book, The Majesty of Trees.  The Haiku Foundation has scheduled some of her haiga art to be posted online in April 2023.

Remembering that one of her professors said that a painting should be “pleasing to the eye,” she enjoys playing with paint and water to see what might develop.

A Meet-the-Artist event will be held on Thursday, April 27, 2-4 p.m. in OzSBI’s lobby at 408 Washington Ave. in West Plains. The public is invited to attend to meet Robinette 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.

Robinette artwork – “Singing at the Met”

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.

The West Plains Council on the Arts (WPCA) and West Plains Public Library (WPPL) will partner to bring quarterly art displays to the library. Art teachers from West Plains R-7 schools will be featured March 9 through the end of June 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.

WPCA Coordinator Janey Hale says, “West Plains is fortunate to have art teachers that excel in drawing out their students’ creative abilities. WPCA is excited to showcase the teachers’ artwork. This is an opportunity to view what they do that inspires them to inspire their students.”

WPPL Director Shawnie Kennedy shares, “We are so excited to have the art teachers of our community displaying their work in the library.  Not only are they artists, but they use their talent and love for art to inspire our youth. They are true masters!”

About the Artists:

Mary-Louise Grisham Nash – West Plains based artist/art teacher, Mary-Louise Grisham Nash has been passionate about art for the majority of her life.  Originally from West Plains, Mary-Louise attended Drury University in Springfield, Missouri, where she received her bachelor’s in design arts, emphasis in photography, with a minor in art history. During her studies, she traveled and studied at the Santa Reparata International School for the Arts in Florence, Italy, where she was influenced and inspired by the art history, architecture, and landscapes of the region.  Upon graduation, she went on to receive her Master of Arts of Teaching at Missouri State University.  After earning her Masters, she returned to West Plains to start a career in Art Education at West Plains R-7 school district.  She is currently in her 11th year as the middle school visual art instructor.  She is passionate and inspired by student’s love and drive to learn new creative things, and also by the beautiful colors that she is surrounded by every day right here in the Ozarks.

Kathy Grigsby is a retired West Plains R-7 Art Teacher. While enjoying retirement she also teaches part time at South Fork Elementary. Kathy has painted many murals over the years for businesses and homes. Her most recent being the murals at The Truck Patch she and artist Cindy Temple collaborated with together. She also has donated many paintings including Santa’s as auction items for various fundraisers and events.

In her retirement she has found more time to be in front of her easel with opportunities to take many workshops with Regina Willard exploring painting techniques. As a result, she has carried this over to her teaching which has enlightened her instruction in the process of art. She states that “art is a process of mark making” and enjoys her students’ art more with that perspective. Kathy is married to Rick Grigsby and they have 3 grown children and 3 grandchildren.

Karen Pitts is currently in her third year of teaching art at West Plains High School and spent thirteen years teaching art at Willow Springs Middle School.  She also teaches art at the Harlin Museum in West Plains and is the owner and operator of a painting party business “Treat Your Palette” teaching adult painting.  Karen started her lifelong love of the arts at the early age of seven.  Her first acrylic paints at the age of nine started her love for painting and have continued that love to today.  Her goal after retirement is to continue teaching art, hosting painting parties, and starting an online kid’s art program.  Karen has three daughters and seven grandkids and enjoys visiting family and grandkids back home in Oklahoma City.

Audrey Scott is a painter and art educator from West Plains, MO. “I have been painting since I was a child, always entranced by color and the emotional depth it is able to capture and evoke. In high school I developed a keenness for working in a more abstract approach, and that style has continued to evolve over the years. After high school, I obtained a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree with a Minor in Art History from Missouri State University, and have had the opportunity to exhibit my work in galleries including Cottey College in Nevada, MO and Obelisk Home in Springfield, MO. I currently have the privilege of teaching art at West Plains High School.”

A Meet-the-Artists event will be held on Monday, April 17, 2023, 4-6 p.m. at the library, 750 W. Broadway, in West Plains. The public is invited to attend, meet the artists, view, and discuss the pieces on display. Partial funding for this exhibit is provided by the Missouri Arts Council, a state agency.

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.

Ozark Artery is hosting a “Plants and Pollinators” Art Show at the Yellow House to recognize and celebrate the importance of pollinators and their habitat. Native plants will be featured in the works along with insects, birds, and other subjects related to the theme. Educational information on the topic will also be part of the show.

The show is set to be on display during the regular hours of operation of the Yellow House (Wednesdays, 11-3, and Thursdays, 10-2) through the month of May. Free admission to view the show.

See Ozark Artery on Facebook or ozarkartery.art for more information.

• Photo courtesy of Bob Cunningham

West Plains Council on the Arts (WPCA) will host an exhibition of works by members of the West Plains Photography Club in the Gallery at the Center (mezzanine), West Plains Civic Center from April 15 through May 20, 2023.

Fourteen area artists will participate to showcase some of their best pieces. Artists include:

Jason Adolphson
Anna Bolhis
Marc Brannan
Dennis Crider
Bob Cunningham
Rachel Hendricks
Justin Lowe
Samantha McFarland
Ralph Moore
Sally Robinson
Tammy Schulz
Regina Stone
Carr Ward
Susan Zallar

WPCA will host a Meet the Artist event on Saturday, April 22, from 2-4 p.m., in the Gallery at the Center. All are invited to attend, meet the artists, and discuss the pieces.

Complete information, including Photography Club information and artists statements:

West Plains Council on the Arts (WPCA) will host an exhibition of works by fourteen area artists in the Gallery at the Center, West Plains Civic Center from April 15 through May 20, 2023. The Gallery, on the mezzanine, is open to the public during regular Civic Center hours.

The West Plains Photography Club, which was unable to meet for three years because of the Covid pandemic, has enjoyed a rebirth beginning in January of this year. The club currently has 34 members and meetings are at 6:30 p.m. the second Monday of each month in the Missouri State University-West Plains Creative Discovery Center, 411 West Main Street, Suite 1. Everyone regardless of age or ability is invited to join the club which has no membership dues.

The purpose of the club is to share and support everyone’s passion for photography arts whether they are a beginner or have been engaged in photography for many years. Present members include some who do not even own a camera to professionals who make a living by selling their art. For more information on the club feel free to call Bob Cunningham at 417-257-8206 or Dennis Crider at 417-274-7101.

“The exhibit this spring should appeal to a wide range of viewers. You will see precision lighting in-studio portraits, amazing wildlife, beautiful scenics, still life and close-up macro subjects.,” Crider says.

Featured artists include:

 Jason Adolphson

“I have been a photographer for twenty years. My goal from the beginning has been to show others the wonderful creation that God has gifted us with. As I travel, I can’t help but think about how many people never even stop to see what’s around them in their daily travels. I want to share with others all that I see. God gave us beauty for everyday of our lives, so I feel why only stare at asphalt.

I started my business to share with the world. My goal is some day to have taken photographs in all 50 states. Every state holds some secret treasure. Our country has some of the most diverse landscapes in the world, and few of us ever get to experience them all. Through my photographs I hope to share a piece of each of my experiences with others.”

Anna Fokina-Bolhis

“I am Anna Fokina-Bolhis. My little Kodak camera got stolen from my husband’s car at work, so about a year later we bought our first DSLR camera. That was twelve years ago. Not knowing anything about photography I dove straight into learning all aspects of portrait photography using YouTube and the internet. It was a great hobby for me to pick up as I stayed home with my kids, which gave me a creative outlet from the daily routine. For a little bit I started doing family portraits professionally but had to stop doing that to concentrate on caring for our growing family, which now has seven kids. Photography has become our “family hobby,” as almost every child has their moment in wanting to photograph a project, event, or a moment. Recently I have taught a high school course of photography at our local homeschool co-op. It was a great hit. The work of my students got displayed at West Plains Public Library and had a great response rate and interest. I got to do many interesting projects and meet many interesting people, due to my hobby. I am excited to see where photography will take me in the future.”

Marc Brannan

Marc Brannan grew up on the family farm near Willow Springs, MO., and currently lives and works in West Plains, MO. He started playing with cameras and taking pictures at a very young age. He loved playing in the old barn and enjoyed being outdoors as much as possible surrounded by nature. His parents nurtured his desire to travel and see new places. His dad encouraged him to learn and enjoy history, especially the history of his family and where they came from.

“I bought my first digital camera in the early 2000’s, and it allowed me to slowly learn the craft of digital photography. In the last two years, I have really gotten more in depth, using a newer digital camera, and working hard to learn more camera techniques. I have focused more on bringing the art out in my pictures, taking a simple pic, and showing the viewer that there is so much more around us then we typically take time to see. I have found the best teacher is just going out and doing it – trying different shots, compositions, angles, lighting, and just seeing first- hand what works.

My pieces show the continued efforts I put into traveling to these places and doing my best to preserve their spirit by bringing them to life in various creative ways. To give life back to a historical place is one of the greatest gifts we can give to others.”

Dennis Crider

Photography has been a constant source of challenges for Dennis Crider beginning at the age of 4 when he picked up a Kodak Brownie box camera and started clicking the shutter. That passion began to gain momentum when he was a sophomore in high school in his hometown of Wichita, Kansas. That year he received an Ansco camera for Christmas and began an interest in sports photography. Two of his images of wrestling action made it into the West High School yearbook. The next year he was assistant photographer at a new school, Wichita High School South. He was head photographer at South his senior year, then was head photographer at Oklahoma Christian College in Oklahoma City the next four years.

Following a brief stint as owner of a photo studio in Edmond, Oklahoma he moved to West Plains in 1969 then spent the next 39 years as reporter/photographer/sports editor at The Daily Quill Newspaper. Since retirement in 2008 he aims his camera at things that don’t talk back. Wildlife, nature, scenic and still life are among his favorites as well as following Cowboy Rick Hamby’s stagecoach on its travels.

Images in this display include a 40×12-inch shot of the stagecoach rolling through the Glade Top Trail in Ozark County last year; a 24×18-inch black and white image of a blurry-on-purpose horse running at dusk; an 18×24-inch black and white photo of a bison taken at Yellowstone National Park; a 24×18-inch image of cowboys approaching an area called Devil’s Gap in northwest Oklahoma (ruts shown in this image were made by the 7th Cavalry led by Lt. Col. George Armstrong Custer beginning in 1868); and a 24×18 shot of a bison braving snow and ice in the Black Hills of South Dakota.

Bob Cunningham

Cunningham is a life-long Missourian who has lived primarily in the Ozarks. He developed an interest in photography after completing a photo-journalism class at the University of Missouri–Columbia in the early 1970s. Cunningham graduated from the University of Missouri in 1976 with a B.S. in Forest Management, and has resided in West Plains, Missouri since 1988.

Cunningham retired in 2010 after 34 years of service with the Missouri Department of Conservation working as a professional forester, and since that time has owned and operated a forest and wildlife management consulting business, plus freelance outdoor photography. His photographic works have appeared in books, videos, and other publications. His wildlife, nature, and landscape images have been captured from the South Pacific, Central America, Caribbean countries, and throughout all North America.

Artist Statement – “My photography goal is to create artistic images worthy of a lengthy view. Otherwise, the picture is merely a snapshot.”

Rachel Hendricks

Rachel is a local nature photographer and avid birder that lives in Oregon County Missouri.  Her photographic journey began in earnest back in early 2020, when she pressed pause on a career as a food safety auditor and consultant to spend more time at home with her six children and assist in their family ranching operation during the pandemic.  She hopes to capture images that inspire people to explore and appreciate the natural beauty of the Ozarks and to conserve and protect ecologically sensitive spaces for future generations.

Justin Lowe

Justin Lowe was born and raised in the Ozarks. From an early age, he demonstrated a propensity for creativity. His first creative endeavor was music. During his high school years, Justin’s passion for music propelled him to All-State Band and Choir. He then moved on to study music at the university level performing in venues such as Carnegie Hall in New York City.

While Justin still enjoys creating music, he has found another creative avenue to pursue – photography. Justin purchased his first DSLR camera in 2020. He thought he was buying a camera to capture video of worship at his church, New Hope Baptist Church in Peace Valley, where he is blessed to serve as pastor. But, when Justin started learning the camera settings to make creative compositions, he quickly discovered a passion for nature photography. Now, in Justin’s spare time, you will often find him with a camera in hand practicing the art of capturing images of God’s creation. While he has only been learning photography for a short time, Justin has already had photos published in the news media.

Samantha McFarland

A native of the area, Samantha Hawkins McFarland moved back to the Ozarks to raise a family and further her education. She has practiced photography since childhood, and describes her photos as attempts to capture a feeling or a fleeting moment in time. She also enjoys shooting images that represent her heritage.

Ralph Moore

Ralph Moore is retired from Viola Public School, where he was a teacher and counselor for many years. After retirement he became interested in photography. Today, he travels far and wide searching for interesting subjects in perfect light. His favorite subjects are landscapes, animals, travel, night photography, birds, flowers, micro, and sunrise/sunsets. Really just about anything except people!

Sally Robinson

“I started photographing when I was 17 after my brother gave me his old half-frame Yashica camera. I loved the idea of capturing a moment in time and being able to freeze a memory. Moving to West Plains in 1996 and seeing the Ozarks ignited a love of nature and landscape photography as well as appreciating the beauty of nature’s color alongside old buildings and land that probably looks the same as it did over a hundred years ago. I see pictures everywhere and find that it’s the ones I don’t take that haunt me.”

Tammy Schulz

Tammy (Gunter) Schulz was raised in West Plains, Missouri and is a West Plains High School Graduate. Tammy currently resides in Mountain View, MO with her husband Ricky. She has a degree in Advertising Design and her ability to compose an image stems from that design training. She’s had a camera in her hand since she was 10 years old and sold seeds to her neighbors and relatives to earn her first camera. She didn’t delve into 35 mm photography until 1999 when she wanted better photographs of her daughter’s dance performances. For years her favorite photography subject was her daughter, especially when she was dancing. She ventured into digital photography with her first DSLR in the early 2000’s with a Sony a100. She currently shoots with her fourth Sony and recently upgraded to the full frame Sony a7 III Mirrorless Camera.

Tammy’s photography was first published in an issue of Country Lifestyle magazine in 2008. Her photo was a Christmas lights photo taken during a Christmas festival in San Marcos, Texas. Tammy has no formal training in photography and continues to learn and practice to perfect her craft. She learns from other photographers, researching online, and practicing what she’s learned. She loves to capture old churches, mills and schools and prefers candid shots of people over formal poses. She particularly loves to capture scenes she later turns into paintings.  “Art is feeling more than seeing.”

Regina Stone

From taking pictures as a young girl to shooting professionally since 2008, Gina Stone has made photography a job that she truly loves. She enjoys making beautiful memories for family and friends, but especially photographing life’s special moments such as newborn/children’s photos, senior pictures, weddings, or even your best furry friend. In her spare time, she shoots the occasional wildflower, countryside, old barn, or really all the above. Gina Stone Photography is located on West 8th Street in West Plains.

Carr Ward

Carr “Chad” Ward was raised in West Plains, MO, graduated from West Plains High, then joined the US Navy traveling the Asia Pacific. After serving in the Navy, he traveled the country with Bechtel from 2005 to 2018 before settling back down in his hometown of West Plains.

Carr has always loved the outdoors and art. He began his photography journey as a boy, playing with various film cameras and became serious about his pursuit in the summer of 2010. Upon moving back, Carr set out to photograph the Ozarks like no one has before, often visiting places most have never seen or knew existed. Carr uses his photography to showcase the beauty and diversity of the Ozarks. His passion is shown in each photograph he captures. With each photograph he hopes to capture the natural elements in a way that the viewer is drawn in to feel as if they are there.

Carr has dedicated himself to the craft of photography, often traveling many miles just to capture a scene under the right light. Planning, scouting, traveling, and hiking are all elements that are combined with a deep passion to capture the beautiful scenery in the Ozarks. Every photo is a labor of love and enjoyment. Carr wants to accomplish two things with his photography, to glorify his Creator and to be a blessing to the viewer.

Susan Zallar

“I started taking pictures back in the 1970s with a little 35mm camera. I really enjoyed driving around Cleveland, OH, and getting black and white shots of the city and its surroundings. But life happens, and the camera was put away decades ago. A couple years ago I was getting frustrated with the quality of my cell phone photos and got my first “real” camera. Three years, three cameras, and multiple photography accouterments later, I now spend just about every free moment either taking pictures, editing pictures, or learning about taking and editing pictures. I like all kinds of photography, but I particularly enjoy taking pictures of plants and insects, macro photography, and pet portraiture.”

WPCA will host a Meet the Artists event on Saturday, April 22, from 2-4 p.m., in the Gallery at the Center. All are invited to attend, meet the artists, and discuss the pieces.  The exhibit is co-sponsored by the West Plains Civic Center and West Plains Council on the Arts, with partial funding provided by Missouri Arts Council, a state agency.

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 artist Barbara Robinette’s works will be featured inside OzSBI’s first floor March 31 through the end of June 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, “Barbara’s watercolors are loose, colorful, and nostalgic; reminding one of times gone by.”

About the artist:

Though she minored in art, Barbara Robinette dropped out of college to go to work and learn on her own. She is a member of West Plains Ventures in Art group and is self-taught in the art of watercolor.  Robinette also is a free verse poet, leaning today towards haiga art, which combines images with haiku. Daily Haiga has posted online five of her haiga, and Quill and Parchment poetry journal has featured some of her art online. Highland Park Poetry Publications has published one of her haiga in their book, The Majesty of Trees.  The Haiku Foundation has scheduled some of her haiga art to be posted online in April 2023.

Remembering that one of her professors said that a painting should be “pleasing to the eye,” she enjoys playing with paint and water to see what might develop.

A Meet-the-Artist event will be held on Thursday, April 27, 2-4 p.m. in OzSBI’s lobby at 408 Washington Ave. in West Plains. The public is invited to attend to meet Robinette 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.

Robinette artwork – “Singing at the Met”

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.

The West Plains Council on the Arts (WPCA) and West Plains Public Library (WPPL) will partner to bring quarterly art displays to the library. Art teachers from West Plains R-7 schools will be featured March 9 through the end of June 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.

WPCA Coordinator Janey Hale says, “West Plains is fortunate to have art teachers that excel in drawing out their students’ creative abilities. WPCA is excited to showcase the teachers’ artwork. This is an opportunity to view what they do that inspires them to inspire their students.”

WPPL Director Shawnie Kennedy shares, “We are so excited to have the art teachers of our community displaying their work in the library.  Not only are they artists, but they use their talent and love for art to inspire our youth. They are true masters!”

About the Artists:

Mary-Louise Grisham Nash – West Plains based artist/art teacher, Mary-Louise Grisham Nash has been passionate about art for the majority of her life.  Originally from West Plains, Mary-Louise attended Drury University in Springfield, Missouri, where she received her bachelor’s in design arts, emphasis in photography, with a minor in art history. During her studies, she traveled and studied at the Santa Reparata International School for the Arts in Florence, Italy, where she was influenced and inspired by the art history, architecture, and landscapes of the region.  Upon graduation, she went on to receive her Master of Arts of Teaching at Missouri State University.  After earning her Masters, she returned to West Plains to start a career in Art Education at West Plains R-7 school district.  She is currently in her 11th year as the middle school visual art instructor.  She is passionate and inspired by student’s love and drive to learn new creative things, and also by the beautiful colors that she is surrounded by every day right here in the Ozarks.

Kathy Grigsby is a retired West Plains R-7 Art Teacher. While enjoying retirement she also teaches part time at South Fork Elementary. Kathy has painted many murals over the years for businesses and homes. Her most recent being the murals at The Truck Patch she and artist Cindy Temple collaborated with together. She also has donated many paintings including Santa’s as auction items for various fundraisers and events.

In her retirement she has found more time to be in front of her easel with opportunities to take many workshops with Regina Willard exploring painting techniques. As a result, she has carried this over to her teaching which has enlightened her instruction in the process of art. She states that “art is a process of mark making” and enjoys her students’ art more with that perspective. Kathy is married to Rick Grigsby and they have 3 grown children and 3 grandchildren.

Karen Pitts is currently in her third year of teaching art at West Plains High School and spent thirteen years teaching art at Willow Springs Middle School.  She also teaches art at the Harlin Museum in West Plains and is the owner and operator of a painting party business “Treat Your Palette” teaching adult painting.  Karen started her lifelong love of the arts at the early age of seven.  Her first acrylic paints at the age of nine started her love for painting and have continued that love to today.  Her goal after retirement is to continue teaching art, hosting painting parties, and starting an online kid’s art program.  Karen has three daughters and seven grandkids and enjoys visiting family and grandkids back home in Oklahoma City.

Audrey Scott is a painter and art educator from West Plains, MO. “I have been painting since I was a child, always entranced by color and the emotional depth it is able to capture and evoke. In high school I developed a keenness for working in a more abstract approach, and that style has continued to evolve over the years. After high school, I obtained a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree with a Minor in Art History from Missouri State University, and have had the opportunity to exhibit my work in galleries including Cottey College in Nevada, MO and Obelisk Home in Springfield, MO. I currently have the privilege of teaching art at West Plains High School.”

A Meet-the-Artists event will be held on Monday, April 17, 2023, 4-6 p.m. at the library, 750 W. Broadway, in West Plains. The public is invited to attend, meet the artists, view, and discuss the pieces on display. Partial funding for this exhibit is provided by the Missouri Arts Council, a state agency.

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.

Ozark Artery is hosting a “Plants and Pollinators” Art Show at the Yellow House to recognize and celebrate the importance of pollinators and their habitat. Native plants will be featured in the works along with insects, birds, and other subjects related to the theme. Educational information on the topic will also be part of the show.

The show is set to be on display during the regular hours of operation of the Yellow House (Wednesdays, 11-3, and Thursdays, 10-2) through the month of May. Free admission to view the show.

See Ozark Artery on Facebook or ozarkartery.art for more information.

Registration and fee required. More information at OZsbi.com.

For more information and required pre-registration: ozsbi.com

May 5 – May 27: Annual Photography Show Competition 

This non-juried annual competition show is open to all photographers. Possible categories* include color photography, monotone photography, altered photography, photo collage, macro photography, etc. Awards are given for Best of Show, 1st Place, 2nd Place, and 3rd Place entries in each category of both adult & youth divisions. People’s Choice is awarded by popular vote. No admission charged to see the show. Donations welcome.

Visit harlinmuseum.com or Harlin Museum of West Plains on Facebook for more information.

*categories are determined by the entries received for the competition

All invited to 2nd annual academic symposium at MSU-WP

Members of the Public Affairs Committee at Missouri State University-West Plains (MSU-WP) invite all area residents to attend their second annual Academic Symposium and Regional Conference May 11 on the MSU-WP campus.

The event is designed to celebrate the academic endeavors of students by shining a spotlight on their evidence-based research projects. Students from different degree programs and disciplines will display posters of their work, and several will give presentations outlining their discoveries.

In addition, community leaders and representatives from MSU-WP, the Missouri Department of Conservation and the University of Missouri Extension will join in to present their current projects regarding African American historical places in West Plains, sportfish management and feral hog eradication efforts in the region, organizers said.

The event begins at 4 p.m. with a welcome message and the poster session in the Carol Silvey Student Union at Hass-Darr Hall. At 5 p.m., presentations will begin in Melton and Looney Halls at 30-minute intervals until 8 p.m. General presentations will take place in Melton Hall Room 112, while nursing presentations will be given in the Marvin L. Fowler Lecture Hall (Room 108) in Looney Hall.

“Our goal is to grow this event as the biggest conference in the region where the general public has the opportunity to connect with students, academics and experts while learning more about the projects happening in this area,” said Public Affairs Committee Chair Ana Estrella. “We would like to invite the community to save the date and join us for this unique event.”

Refreshments will be served. Admission is free.

For more information, contact Estrella at AnaEstrellaRiollano@MissouriState.edu.

“My Mother, My Friend”

Treat Your Palette guided painting on Facebook.

• Photo courtesy of Bob Cunningham

West Plains Council on the Arts (WPCA) will host an exhibition of works by members of the West Plains Photography Club in the Gallery at the Center (mezzanine), West Plains Civic Center from April 15 through May 20, 2023.

Fourteen area artists will participate to showcase some of their best pieces. Artists include:

Jason Adolphson
Anna Bolhis
Marc Brannan
Dennis Crider
Bob Cunningham
Rachel Hendricks
Justin Lowe
Samantha McFarland
Ralph Moore
Sally Robinson
Tammy Schulz
Regina Stone
Carr Ward
Susan Zallar

WPCA will host a Meet the Artist event on Saturday, April 22, from 2-4 p.m., in the Gallery at the Center. All are invited to attend, meet the artists, and discuss the pieces.

Complete information, including Photography Club information and artists statements:

West Plains Council on the Arts (WPCA) will host an exhibition of works by fourteen area artists in the Gallery at the Center, West Plains Civic Center from April 15 through May 20, 2023. The Gallery, on the mezzanine, is open to the public during regular Civic Center hours.

The West Plains Photography Club, which was unable to meet for three years because of the Covid pandemic, has enjoyed a rebirth beginning in January of this year. The club currently has 34 members and meetings are at 6:30 p.m. the second Monday of each month in the Missouri State University-West Plains Creative Discovery Center, 411 West Main Street, Suite 1. Everyone regardless of age or ability is invited to join the club which has no membership dues.

The purpose of the club is to share and support everyone’s passion for photography arts whether they are a beginner or have been engaged in photography for many years. Present members include some who do not even own a camera to professionals who make a living by selling their art. For more information on the club feel free to call Bob Cunningham at 417-257-8206 or Dennis Crider at 417-274-7101.

“The exhibit this spring should appeal to a wide range of viewers. You will see precision lighting in-studio portraits, amazing wildlife, beautiful scenics, still life and close-up macro subjects.,” Crider says.

Featured artists include:

 Jason Adolphson

“I have been a photographer for twenty years. My goal from the beginning has been to show others the wonderful creation that God has gifted us with. As I travel, I can’t help but think about how many people never even stop to see what’s around them in their daily travels. I want to share with others all that I see. God gave us beauty for everyday of our lives, so I feel why only stare at asphalt.

I started my business to share with the world. My goal is some day to have taken photographs in all 50 states. Every state holds some secret treasure. Our country has some of the most diverse landscapes in the world, and few of us ever get to experience them all. Through my photographs I hope to share a piece of each of my experiences with others.”

Anna Fokina-Bolhis

“I am Anna Fokina-Bolhis. My little Kodak camera got stolen from my husband’s car at work, so about a year later we bought our first DSLR camera. That was twelve years ago. Not knowing anything about photography I dove straight into learning all aspects of portrait photography using YouTube and the internet. It was a great hobby for me to pick up as I stayed home with my kids, which gave me a creative outlet from the daily routine. For a little bit I started doing family portraits professionally but had to stop doing that to concentrate on caring for our growing family, which now has seven kids. Photography has become our “family hobby,” as almost every child has their moment in wanting to photograph a project, event, or a moment. Recently I have taught a high school course of photography at our local homeschool co-op. It was a great hit. The work of my students got displayed at West Plains Public Library and had a great response rate and interest. I got to do many interesting projects and meet many interesting people, due to my hobby. I am excited to see where photography will take me in the future.”

Marc Brannan

Marc Brannan grew up on the family farm near Willow Springs, MO., and currently lives and works in West Plains, MO. He started playing with cameras and taking pictures at a very young age. He loved playing in the old barn and enjoyed being outdoors as much as possible surrounded by nature. His parents nurtured his desire to travel and see new places. His dad encouraged him to learn and enjoy history, especially the history of his family and where they came from.

“I bought my first digital camera in the early 2000’s, and it allowed me to slowly learn the craft of digital photography. In the last two years, I have really gotten more in depth, using a newer digital camera, and working hard to learn more camera techniques. I have focused more on bringing the art out in my pictures, taking a simple pic, and showing the viewer that there is so much more around us then we typically take time to see. I have found the best teacher is just going out and doing it – trying different shots, compositions, angles, lighting, and just seeing first- hand what works.

My pieces show the continued efforts I put into traveling to these places and doing my best to preserve their spirit by bringing them to life in various creative ways. To give life back to a historical place is one of the greatest gifts we can give to others.”

Dennis Crider

Photography has been a constant source of challenges for Dennis Crider beginning at the age of 4 when he picked up a Kodak Brownie box camera and started clicking the shutter. That passion began to gain momentum when he was a sophomore in high school in his hometown of Wichita, Kansas. That year he received an Ansco camera for Christmas and began an interest in sports photography. Two of his images of wrestling action made it into the West High School yearbook. The next year he was assistant photographer at a new school, Wichita High School South. He was head photographer at South his senior year, then was head photographer at Oklahoma Christian College in Oklahoma City the next four years.

Following a brief stint as owner of a photo studio in Edmond, Oklahoma he moved to West Plains in 1969 then spent the next 39 years as reporter/photographer/sports editor at The Daily Quill Newspaper. Since retirement in 2008 he aims his camera at things that don’t talk back. Wildlife, nature, scenic and still life are among his favorites as well as following Cowboy Rick Hamby’s stagecoach on its travels.

Images in this display include a 40×12-inch shot of the stagecoach rolling through the Glade Top Trail in Ozark County last year; a 24×18-inch black and white image of a blurry-on-purpose horse running at dusk; an 18×24-inch black and white photo of a bison taken at Yellowstone National Park; a 24×18-inch image of cowboys approaching an area called Devil’s Gap in northwest Oklahoma (ruts shown in this image were made by the 7th Cavalry led by Lt. Col. George Armstrong Custer beginning in 1868); and a 24×18 shot of a bison braving snow and ice in the Black Hills of South Dakota.

Bob Cunningham

Cunningham is a life-long Missourian who has lived primarily in the Ozarks. He developed an interest in photography after completing a photo-journalism class at the University of Missouri–Columbia in the early 1970s. Cunningham graduated from the University of Missouri in 1976 with a B.S. in Forest Management, and has resided in West Plains, Missouri since 1988.

Cunningham retired in 2010 after 34 years of service with the Missouri Department of Conservation working as a professional forester, and since that time has owned and operated a forest and wildlife management consulting business, plus freelance outdoor photography. His photographic works have appeared in books, videos, and other publications. His wildlife, nature, and landscape images have been captured from the South Pacific, Central America, Caribbean countries, and throughout all North America.

Artist Statement – “My photography goal is to create artistic images worthy of a lengthy view. Otherwise, the picture is merely a snapshot.”

Rachel Hendricks

Rachel is a local nature photographer and avid birder that lives in Oregon County Missouri.  Her photographic journey began in earnest back in early 2020, when she pressed pause on a career as a food safety auditor and consultant to spend more time at home with her six children and assist in their family ranching operation during the pandemic.  She hopes to capture images that inspire people to explore and appreciate the natural beauty of the Ozarks and to conserve and protect ecologically sensitive spaces for future generations.

Justin Lowe

Justin Lowe was born and raised in the Ozarks. From an early age, he demonstrated a propensity for creativity. His first creative endeavor was music. During his high school years, Justin’s passion for music propelled him to All-State Band and Choir. He then moved on to study music at the university level performing in venues such as Carnegie Hall in New York City.

While Justin still enjoys creating music, he has found another creative avenue to pursue – photography. Justin purchased his first DSLR camera in 2020. He thought he was buying a camera to capture video of worship at his church, New Hope Baptist Church in Peace Valley, where he is blessed to serve as pastor. But, when Justin started learning the camera settings to make creative compositions, he quickly discovered a passion for nature photography. Now, in Justin’s spare time, you will often find him with a camera in hand practicing the art of capturing images of God’s creation. While he has only been learning photography for a short time, Justin has already had photos published in the news media.

Samantha McFarland

A native of the area, Samantha Hawkins McFarland moved back to the Ozarks to raise a family and further her education. She has practiced photography since childhood, and describes her photos as attempts to capture a feeling or a fleeting moment in time. She also enjoys shooting images that represent her heritage.

Ralph Moore

Ralph Moore is retired from Viola Public School, where he was a teacher and counselor for many years. After retirement he became interested in photography. Today, he travels far and wide searching for interesting subjects in perfect light. His favorite subjects are landscapes, animals, travel, night photography, birds, flowers, micro, and sunrise/sunsets. Really just about anything except people!

Sally Robinson

“I started photographing when I was 17 after my brother gave me his old half-frame Yashica camera. I loved the idea of capturing a moment in time and being able to freeze a memory. Moving to West Plains in 1996 and seeing the Ozarks ignited a love of nature and landscape photography as well as appreciating the beauty of nature’s color alongside old buildings and land that probably looks the same as it did over a hundred years ago. I see pictures everywhere and find that it’s the ones I don’t take that haunt me.”

Tammy Schulz

Tammy (Gunter) Schulz was raised in West Plains, Missouri and is a West Plains High School Graduate. Tammy currently resides in Mountain View, MO with her husband Ricky. She has a degree in Advertising Design and her ability to compose an image stems from that design training. She’s had a camera in her hand since she was 10 years old and sold seeds to her neighbors and relatives to earn her first camera. She didn’t delve into 35 mm photography until 1999 when she wanted better photographs of her daughter’s dance performances. For years her favorite photography subject was her daughter, especially when she was dancing. She ventured into digital photography with her first DSLR in the early 2000’s with a Sony a100. She currently shoots with her fourth Sony and recently upgraded to the full frame Sony a7 III Mirrorless Camera.

Tammy’s photography was first published in an issue of Country Lifestyle magazine in 2008. Her photo was a Christmas lights photo taken during a Christmas festival in San Marcos, Texas. Tammy has no formal training in photography and continues to learn and practice to perfect her craft. She learns from other photographers, researching online, and practicing what she’s learned. She loves to capture old churches, mills and schools and prefers candid shots of people over formal poses. She particularly loves to capture scenes she later turns into paintings.  “Art is feeling more than seeing.”

Regina Stone

From taking pictures as a young girl to shooting professionally since 2008, Gina Stone has made photography a job that she truly loves. She enjoys making beautiful memories for family and friends, but especially photographing life’s special moments such as newborn/children’s photos, senior pictures, weddings, or even your best furry friend. In her spare time, she shoots the occasional wildflower, countryside, old barn, or really all the above. Gina Stone Photography is located on West 8th Street in West Plains.

Carr Ward

Carr “Chad” Ward was raised in West Plains, MO, graduated from West Plains High, then joined the US Navy traveling the Asia Pacific. After serving in the Navy, he traveled the country with Bechtel from 2005 to 2018 before settling back down in his hometown of West Plains.

Carr has always loved the outdoors and art. He began his photography journey as a boy, playing with various film cameras and became serious about his pursuit in the summer of 2010. Upon moving back, Carr set out to photograph the Ozarks like no one has before, often visiting places most have never seen or knew existed. Carr uses his photography to showcase the beauty and diversity of the Ozarks. His passion is shown in each photograph he captures. With each photograph he hopes to capture the natural elements in a way that the viewer is drawn in to feel as if they are there.

Carr has dedicated himself to the craft of photography, often traveling many miles just to capture a scene under the right light. Planning, scouting, traveling, and hiking are all elements that are combined with a deep passion to capture the beautiful scenery in the Ozarks. Every photo is a labor of love and enjoyment. Carr wants to accomplish two things with his photography, to glorify his Creator and to be a blessing to the viewer.

Susan Zallar

“I started taking pictures back in the 1970s with a little 35mm camera. I really enjoyed driving around Cleveland, OH, and getting black and white shots of the city and its surroundings. But life happens, and the camera was put away decades ago. A couple years ago I was getting frustrated with the quality of my cell phone photos and got my first “real” camera. Three years, three cameras, and multiple photography accouterments later, I now spend just about every free moment either taking pictures, editing pictures, or learning about taking and editing pictures. I like all kinds of photography, but I particularly enjoy taking pictures of plants and insects, macro photography, and pet portraiture.”

WPCA will host a Meet the Artists event on Saturday, April 22, from 2-4 p.m., in the Gallery at the Center. All are invited to attend, meet the artists, and discuss the pieces.  The exhibit is co-sponsored by the West Plains Civic Center and West Plains Council on the Arts, with partial funding provided by Missouri Arts Council, a state agency.

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 artist Barbara Robinette’s works will be featured inside OzSBI’s first floor March 31 through the end of June 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, “Barbara’s watercolors are loose, colorful, and nostalgic; reminding one of times gone by.”

About the artist:

Though she minored in art, Barbara Robinette dropped out of college to go to work and learn on her own. She is a member of West Plains Ventures in Art group and is self-taught in the art of watercolor.  Robinette also is a free verse poet, leaning today towards haiga art, which combines images with haiku. Daily Haiga has posted online five of her haiga, and Quill and Parchment poetry journal has featured some of her art online. Highland Park Poetry Publications has published one of her haiga in their book, The Majesty of Trees.  The Haiku Foundation has scheduled some of her haiga art to be posted online in April 2023.

Remembering that one of her professors said that a painting should be “pleasing to the eye,” she enjoys playing with paint and water to see what might develop.

A Meet-the-Artist event will be held on Thursday, April 27, 2-4 p.m. in OzSBI’s lobby at 408 Washington Ave. in West Plains. The public is invited to attend to meet Robinette 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.

Robinette artwork – “Singing at the Met”

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.

Free admission & Parking.  Gates open at 9 am, concession stands open at 10 am. Show Grounds: 310 Cannaday Cabool, MO. Phone: (417) 259-0648.

Tractor Pull Friday @ 5 pm – Weigh in at 2 pm
Tractor Pull Saturday @ 3 pm – Weigh in at noon.

See more information at Ozarks Older Iron Club on Facebook.

The West Plains Council on the Arts (WPCA) and West Plains Public Library (WPPL) will partner to bring quarterly art displays to the library. Art teachers from West Plains R-7 schools will be featured March 9 through the end of June 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.

WPCA Coordinator Janey Hale says, “West Plains is fortunate to have art teachers that excel in drawing out their students’ creative abilities. WPCA is excited to showcase the teachers’ artwork. This is an opportunity to view what they do that inspires them to inspire their students.”

WPPL Director Shawnie Kennedy shares, “We are so excited to have the art teachers of our community displaying their work in the library.  Not only are they artists, but they use their talent and love for art to inspire our youth. They are true masters!”

About the Artists:

Mary-Louise Grisham Nash – West Plains based artist/art teacher, Mary-Louise Grisham Nash has been passionate about art for the majority of her life.  Originally from West Plains, Mary-Louise attended Drury University in Springfield, Missouri, where she received her bachelor’s in design arts, emphasis in photography, with a minor in art history. During her studies, she traveled and studied at the Santa Reparata International School for the Arts in Florence, Italy, where she was influenced and inspired by the art history, architecture, and landscapes of the region.  Upon graduation, she went on to receive her Master of Arts of Teaching at Missouri State University.  After earning her Masters, she returned to West Plains to start a career in Art Education at West Plains R-7 school district.  She is currently in her 11th year as the middle school visual art instructor.  She is passionate and inspired by student’s love and drive to learn new creative things, and also by the beautiful colors that she is surrounded by every day right here in the Ozarks.

Kathy Grigsby is a retired West Plains R-7 Art Teacher. While enjoying retirement she also teaches part time at South Fork Elementary. Kathy has painted many murals over the years for businesses and homes. Her most recent being the murals at The Truck Patch she and artist Cindy Temple collaborated with together. She also has donated many paintings including Santa’s as auction items for various fundraisers and events.

In her retirement she has found more time to be in front of her easel with opportunities to take many workshops with Regina Willard exploring painting techniques. As a result, she has carried this over to her teaching which has enlightened her instruction in the process of art. She states that “art is a process of mark making” and enjoys her students’ art more with that perspective. Kathy is married to Rick Grigsby and they have 3 grown children and 3 grandchildren.

Karen Pitts is currently in her third year of teaching art at West Plains High School and spent thirteen years teaching art at Willow Springs Middle School.  She also teaches art at the Harlin Museum in West Plains and is the owner and operator of a painting party business “Treat Your Palette” teaching adult painting.  Karen started her lifelong love of the arts at the early age of seven.  Her first acrylic paints at the age of nine started her love for painting and have continued that love to today.  Her goal after retirement is to continue teaching art, hosting painting parties, and starting an online kid’s art program.  Karen has three daughters and seven grandkids and enjoys visiting family and grandkids back home in Oklahoma City.

Audrey Scott is a painter and art educator from West Plains, MO. “I have been painting since I was a child, always entranced by color and the emotional depth it is able to capture and evoke. In high school I developed a keenness for working in a more abstract approach, and that style has continued to evolve over the years. After high school, I obtained a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree with a Minor in Art History from Missouri State University, and have had the opportunity to exhibit my work in galleries including Cottey College in Nevada, MO and Obelisk Home in Springfield, MO. I currently have the privilege of teaching art at West Plains High School.”

A Meet-the-Artists event will be held on Monday, April 17, 2023, 4-6 p.m. at the library, 750 W. Broadway, in West Plains. The public is invited to attend, meet the artists, view, and discuss the pieces on display. Partial funding for this exhibit is provided by the Missouri Arts Council, a state agency.

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.

May 5 – May 27: Annual Photography Show Competition 

This non-juried annual competition show is open to all photographers. Possible categories* include color photography, monotone photography, altered photography, photo collage, macro photography, etc. Awards are given for Best of Show, 1st Place, 2nd Place, and 3rd Place entries in each category of both adult & youth divisions. People’s Choice is awarded by popular vote. No admission charged to see the show. Donations welcome.

Visit harlinmuseum.com or Harlin Museum of West Plains on Facebook for more information.

*categories are determined by the entries received for the competition

From organizers: Come out and enjoy some music from Sean Clarke Allen new original songs and a variety of music from our talented friend. This is a a free show but please support local music and art by tips or donations — it’s greatly appreciated.

Sean Clarke Allen Live on Facebook.

Acoustic country.

Dance or just enjoy the music. All ages invited. 7:00 P.M., admission is $6.00.

• Photo courtesy of Bob Cunningham

West Plains Council on the Arts (WPCA) will host an exhibition of works by members of the West Plains Photography Club in the Gallery at the Center (mezzanine), West Plains Civic Center from April 15 through May 20, 2023.

Fourteen area artists will participate to showcase some of their best pieces. Artists include:

Jason Adolphson
Anna Bolhis
Marc Brannan
Dennis Crider
Bob Cunningham
Rachel Hendricks
Justin Lowe
Samantha McFarland
Ralph Moore
Sally Robinson
Tammy Schulz
Regina Stone
Carr Ward
Susan Zallar

WPCA will host a Meet the Artist event on Saturday, April 22, from 2-4 p.m., in the Gallery at the Center. All are invited to attend, meet the artists, and discuss the pieces.

Complete information, including Photography Club information and artists statements:

West Plains Council on the Arts (WPCA) will host an exhibition of works by fourteen area artists in the Gallery at the Center, West Plains Civic Center from April 15 through May 20, 2023. The Gallery, on the mezzanine, is open to the public during regular Civic Center hours.

The West Plains Photography Club, which was unable to meet for three years because of the Covid pandemic, has enjoyed a rebirth beginning in January of this year. The club currently has 34 members and meetings are at 6:30 p.m. the second Monday of each month in the Missouri State University-West Plains Creative Discovery Center, 411 West Main Street, Suite 1. Everyone regardless of age or ability is invited to join the club which has no membership dues.

The purpose of the club is to share and support everyone’s passion for photography arts whether they are a beginner or have been engaged in photography for many years. Present members include some who do not even own a camera to professionals who make a living by selling their art. For more information on the club feel free to call Bob Cunningham at 417-257-8206 or Dennis Crider at 417-274-7101.

“The exhibit this spring should appeal to a wide range of viewers. You will see precision lighting in-studio portraits, amazing wildlife, beautiful scenics, still life and close-up macro subjects.,” Crider says.

Featured artists include:

 Jason Adolphson

“I have been a photographer for twenty years. My goal from the beginning has been to show others the wonderful creation that God has gifted us with. As I travel, I can’t help but think about how many people never even stop to see what’s around them in their daily travels. I want to share with others all that I see. God gave us beauty for everyday of our lives, so I feel why only stare at asphalt.

I started my business to share with the world. My goal is some day to have taken photographs in all 50 states. Every state holds some secret treasure. Our country has some of the most diverse landscapes in the world, and few of us ever get to experience them all. Through my photographs I hope to share a piece of each of my experiences with others.”

Anna Fokina-Bolhis

“I am Anna Fokina-Bolhis. My little Kodak camera got stolen from my husband’s car at work, so about a year later we bought our first DSLR camera. That was twelve years ago. Not knowing anything about photography I dove straight into learning all aspects of portrait photography using YouTube and the internet. It was a great hobby for me to pick up as I stayed home with my kids, which gave me a creative outlet from the daily routine. For a little bit I started doing family portraits professionally but had to stop doing that to concentrate on caring for our growing family, which now has seven kids. Photography has become our “family hobby,” as almost every child has their moment in wanting to photograph a project, event, or a moment. Recently I have taught a high school course of photography at our local homeschool co-op. It was a great hit. The work of my students got displayed at West Plains Public Library and had a great response rate and interest. I got to do many interesting projects and meet many interesting people, due to my hobby. I am excited to see where photography will take me in the future.”

Marc Brannan

Marc Brannan grew up on the family farm near Willow Springs, MO., and currently lives and works in West Plains, MO. He started playing with cameras and taking pictures at a very young age. He loved playing in the old barn and enjoyed being outdoors as much as possible surrounded by nature. His parents nurtured his desire to travel and see new places. His dad encouraged him to learn and enjoy history, especially the history of his family and where they came from.

“I bought my first digital camera in the early 2000’s, and it allowed me to slowly learn the craft of digital photography. In the last two years, I have really gotten more in depth, using a newer digital camera, and working hard to learn more camera techniques. I have focused more on bringing the art out in my pictures, taking a simple pic, and showing the viewer that there is so much more around us then we typically take time to see. I have found the best teacher is just going out and doing it – trying different shots, compositions, angles, lighting, and just seeing first- hand what works.

My pieces show the continued efforts I put into traveling to these places and doing my best to preserve their spirit by bringing them to life in various creative ways. To give life back to a historical place is one of the greatest gifts we can give to others.”

Dennis Crider

Photography has been a constant source of challenges for Dennis Crider beginning at the age of 4 when he picked up a Kodak Brownie box camera and started clicking the shutter. That passion began to gain momentum when he was a sophomore in high school in his hometown of Wichita, Kansas. That year he received an Ansco camera for Christmas and began an interest in sports photography. Two of his images of wrestling action made it into the West High School yearbook. The next year he was assistant photographer at a new school, Wichita High School South. He was head photographer at South his senior year, then was head photographer at Oklahoma Christian College in Oklahoma City the next four years.

Following a brief stint as owner of a photo studio in Edmond, Oklahoma he moved to West Plains in 1969 then spent the next 39 years as reporter/photographer/sports editor at The Daily Quill Newspaper. Since retirement in 2008 he aims his camera at things that don’t talk back. Wildlife, nature, scenic and still life are among his favorites as well as following Cowboy Rick Hamby’s stagecoach on its travels.

Images in this display include a 40×12-inch shot of the stagecoach rolling through the Glade Top Trail in Ozark County last year; a 24×18-inch black and white image of a blurry-on-purpose horse running at dusk; an 18×24-inch black and white photo of a bison taken at Yellowstone National Park; a 24×18-inch image of cowboys approaching an area called Devil’s Gap in northwest Oklahoma (ruts shown in this image were made by the 7th Cavalry led by Lt. Col. George Armstrong Custer beginning in 1868); and a 24×18 shot of a bison braving snow and ice in the Black Hills of South Dakota.

Bob Cunningham

Cunningham is a life-long Missourian who has lived primarily in the Ozarks. He developed an interest in photography after completing a photo-journalism class at the University of Missouri–Columbia in the early 1970s. Cunningham graduated from the University of Missouri in 1976 with a B.S. in Forest Management, and has resided in West Plains, Missouri since 1988.

Cunningham retired in 2010 after 34 years of service with the Missouri Department of Conservation working as a professional forester, and since that time has owned and operated a forest and wildlife management consulting business, plus freelance outdoor photography. His photographic works have appeared in books, videos, and other publications. His wildlife, nature, and landscape images have been captured from the South Pacific, Central America, Caribbean countries, and throughout all North America.

Artist Statement – “My photography goal is to create artistic images worthy of a lengthy view. Otherwise, the picture is merely a snapshot.”

Rachel Hendricks

Rachel is a local nature photographer and avid birder that lives in Oregon County Missouri.  Her photographic journey began in earnest back in early 2020, when she pressed pause on a career as a food safety auditor and consultant to spend more time at home with her six children and assist in their family ranching operation during the pandemic.  She hopes to capture images that inspire people to explore and appreciate the natural beauty of the Ozarks and to conserve and protect ecologically sensitive spaces for future generations.

Justin Lowe

Justin Lowe was born and raised in the Ozarks. From an early age, he demonstrated a propensity for creativity. His first creative endeavor was music. During his high school years, Justin’s passion for music propelled him to All-State Band and Choir. He then moved on to study music at the university level performing in venues such as Carnegie Hall in New York City.

While Justin still enjoys creating music, he has found another creative avenue to pursue – photography. Justin purchased his first DSLR camera in 2020. He thought he was buying a camera to capture video of worship at his church, New Hope Baptist Church in Peace Valley, where he is blessed to serve as pastor. But, when Justin started learning the camera settings to make creative compositions, he quickly discovered a passion for nature photography. Now, in Justin’s spare time, you will often find him with a camera in hand practicing the art of capturing images of God’s creation. While he has only been learning photography for a short time, Justin has already had photos published in the news media.

Samantha McFarland

A native of the area, Samantha Hawkins McFarland moved back to the Ozarks to raise a family and further her education. She has practiced photography since childhood, and describes her photos as attempts to capture a feeling or a fleeting moment in time. She also enjoys shooting images that represent her heritage.

Ralph Moore

Ralph Moore is retired from Viola Public School, where he was a teacher and counselor for many years. After retirement he became interested in photography. Today, he travels far and wide searching for interesting subjects in perfect light. His favorite subjects are landscapes, animals, travel, night photography, birds, flowers, micro, and sunrise/sunsets. Really just about anything except people!

Sally Robinson

“I started photographing when I was 17 after my brother gave me his old half-frame Yashica camera. I loved the idea of capturing a moment in time and being able to freeze a memory. Moving to West Plains in 1996 and seeing the Ozarks ignited a love of nature and landscape photography as well as appreciating the beauty of nature’s color alongside old buildings and land that probably looks the same as it did over a hundred years ago. I see pictures everywhere and find that it’s the ones I don’t take that haunt me.”

Tammy Schulz

Tammy (Gunter) Schulz was raised in West Plains, Missouri and is a West Plains High School Graduate. Tammy currently resides in Mountain View, MO with her husband Ricky. She has a degree in Advertising Design and her ability to compose an image stems from that design training. She’s had a camera in her hand since she was 10 years old and sold seeds to her neighbors and relatives to earn her first camera. She didn’t delve into 35 mm photography until 1999 when she wanted better photographs of her daughter’s dance performances. For years her favorite photography subject was her daughter, especially when she was dancing. She ventured into digital photography with her first DSLR in the early 2000’s with a Sony a100. She currently shoots with her fourth Sony and recently upgraded to the full frame Sony a7 III Mirrorless Camera.

Tammy’s photography was first published in an issue of Country Lifestyle magazine in 2008. Her photo was a Christmas lights photo taken during a Christmas festival in San Marcos, Texas. Tammy has no formal training in photography and continues to learn and practice to perfect her craft. She learns from other photographers, researching online, and practicing what she’s learned. She loves to capture old churches, mills and schools and prefers candid shots of people over formal poses. She particularly loves to capture scenes she later turns into paintings.  “Art is feeling more than seeing.”

Regina Stone

From taking pictures as a young girl to shooting professionally since 2008, Gina Stone has made photography a job that she truly loves. She enjoys making beautiful memories for family and friends, but especially photographing life’s special moments such as newborn/children’s photos, senior pictures, weddings, or even your best furry friend. In her spare time, she shoots the occasional wildflower, countryside, old barn, or really all the above. Gina Stone Photography is located on West 8th Street in West Plains.

Carr Ward

Carr “Chad” Ward was raised in West Plains, MO, graduated from West Plains High, then joined the US Navy traveling the Asia Pacific. After serving in the Navy, he traveled the country with Bechtel from 2005 to 2018 before settling back down in his hometown of West Plains.

Carr has always loved the outdoors and art. He began his photography journey as a boy, playing with various film cameras and became serious about his pursuit in the summer of 2010. Upon moving back, Carr set out to photograph the Ozarks like no one has before, often visiting places most have never seen or knew existed. Carr uses his photography to showcase the beauty and diversity of the Ozarks. His passion is shown in each photograph he captures. With each photograph he hopes to capture the natural elements in a way that the viewer is drawn in to feel as if they are there.

Carr has dedicated himself to the craft of photography, often traveling many miles just to capture a scene under the right light. Planning, scouting, traveling, and hiking are all elements that are combined with a deep passion to capture the beautiful scenery in the Ozarks. Every photo is a labor of love and enjoyment. Carr wants to accomplish two things with his photography, to glorify his Creator and to be a blessing to the viewer.

Susan Zallar

“I started taking pictures back in the 1970s with a little 35mm camera. I really enjoyed driving around Cleveland, OH, and getting black and white shots of the city and its surroundings. But life happens, and the camera was put away decades ago. A couple years ago I was getting frustrated with the quality of my cell phone photos and got my first “real” camera. Three years, three cameras, and multiple photography accouterments later, I now spend just about every free moment either taking pictures, editing pictures, or learning about taking and editing pictures. I like all kinds of photography, but I particularly enjoy taking pictures of plants and insects, macro photography, and pet portraiture.”

WPCA will host a Meet the Artists event on Saturday, April 22, from 2-4 p.m., in the Gallery at the Center. All are invited to attend, meet the artists, and discuss the pieces.  The exhibit is co-sponsored by the West Plains Civic Center and West Plains Council on the Arts, with partial funding provided by Missouri Arts Council, a state agency.

Free admission & Parking.  Gates open at 9 am, concession stands open at 10 am. Show Grounds: 310 Cannaday Cabool, MO. Phone: (417) 259-0648.

Tractor Pull Friday @ 5 pm – Weigh in at 2 pm
Tractor Pull Saturday @ 3 pm – Weigh in at noon.

See more information at Ozarks Older Iron Club on Facebook.

The West Plains Council on the Arts (WPCA) and West Plains Public Library (WPPL) will partner to bring quarterly art displays to the library. Art teachers from West Plains R-7 schools will be featured March 9 through the end of June 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.

WPCA Coordinator Janey Hale says, “West Plains is fortunate to have art teachers that excel in drawing out their students’ creative abilities. WPCA is excited to showcase the teachers’ artwork. This is an opportunity to view what they do that inspires them to inspire their students.”

WPPL Director Shawnie Kennedy shares, “We are so excited to have the art teachers of our community displaying their work in the library.  Not only are they artists, but they use their talent and love for art to inspire our youth. They are true masters!”

About the Artists:

Mary-Louise Grisham Nash – West Plains based artist/art teacher, Mary-Louise Grisham Nash has been passionate about art for the majority of her life.  Originally from West Plains, Mary-Louise attended Drury University in Springfield, Missouri, where she received her bachelor’s in design arts, emphasis in photography, with a minor in art history. During her studies, she traveled and studied at the Santa Reparata International School for the Arts in Florence, Italy, where she was influenced and inspired by the art history, architecture, and landscapes of the region.  Upon graduation, she went on to receive her Master of Arts of Teaching at Missouri State University.  After earning her Masters, she returned to West Plains to start a career in Art Education at West Plains R-7 school district.  She is currently in her 11th year as the middle school visual art instructor.  She is passionate and inspired by student’s love and drive to learn new creative things, and also by the beautiful colors that she is surrounded by every day right here in the Ozarks.

Kathy Grigsby is a retired West Plains R-7 Art Teacher. While enjoying retirement she also teaches part time at South Fork Elementary. Kathy has painted many murals over the years for businesses and homes. Her most recent being the murals at The Truck Patch she and artist Cindy Temple collaborated with together. She also has donated many paintings including Santa’s as auction items for various fundraisers and events.

In her retirement she has found more time to be in front of her easel with opportunities to take many workshops with Regina Willard exploring painting techniques. As a result, she has carried this over to her teaching which has enlightened her instruction in the process of art. She states that “art is a process of mark making” and enjoys her students’ art more with that perspective. Kathy is married to Rick Grigsby and they have 3 grown children and 3 grandchildren.

Karen Pitts is currently in her third year of teaching art at West Plains High School and spent thirteen years teaching art at Willow Springs Middle School.  She also teaches art at the Harlin Museum in West Plains and is the owner and operator of a painting party business “Treat Your Palette” teaching adult painting.  Karen started her lifelong love of the arts at the early age of seven.  Her first acrylic paints at the age of nine started her love for painting and have continued that love to today.  Her goal after retirement is to continue teaching art, hosting painting parties, and starting an online kid’s art program.  Karen has three daughters and seven grandkids and enjoys visiting family and grandkids back home in Oklahoma City.

Audrey Scott is a painter and art educator from West Plains, MO. “I have been painting since I was a child, always entranced by color and the emotional depth it is able to capture and evoke. In high school I developed a keenness for working in a more abstract approach, and that style has continued to evolve over the years. After high school, I obtained a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree with a Minor in Art History from Missouri State University, and have had the opportunity to exhibit my work in galleries including Cottey College in Nevada, MO and Obelisk Home in Springfield, MO. I currently have the privilege of teaching art at West Plains High School.”

A Meet-the-Artists event will be held on Monday, April 17, 2023, 4-6 p.m. at the library, 750 W. Broadway, in West Plains. The public is invited to attend, meet the artists, view, and discuss the pieces on display. Partial funding for this exhibit is provided by the Missouri Arts Council, a state agency.

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.

May 5 – May 27: Annual Photography Show Competition 

This non-juried annual competition show is open to all photographers. Possible categories* include color photography, monotone photography, altered photography, photo collage, macro photography, etc. Awards are given for Best of Show, 1st Place, 2nd Place, and 3rd Place entries in each category of both adult & youth divisions. People’s Choice is awarded by popular vote. No admission charged to see the show. Donations welcome.

Visit harlinmuseum.com or Harlin Museum of West Plains on Facebook for more information.

*categories are determined by the entries received for the competition

For movies currently playing and all show times, see https://www.glassswordcinema.com/

See legitspeedway.com for full schedule and details.

Host: Clayton Jackson. Brand Ambassador for The Beard Struggle and host of Good Time for Wine with Mr. Whiskers on YouTube.

• Photo courtesy of Bob Cunningham

West Plains Council on the Arts (WPCA) will host an exhibition of works by members of the West Plains Photography Club in the Gallery at the Center (mezzanine), West Plains Civic Center from April 15 through May 20, 2023.

Fourteen area artists will participate to showcase some of their best pieces. Artists include:

Jason Adolphson
Anna Bolhis
Marc Brannan
Dennis Crider
Bob Cunningham
Rachel Hendricks
Justin Lowe
Samantha McFarland
Ralph Moore
Sally Robinson
Tammy Schulz
Regina Stone
Carr Ward
Susan Zallar

WPCA will host a Meet the Artist event on Saturday, April 22, from 2-4 p.m., in the Gallery at the Center. All are invited to attend, meet the artists, and discuss the pieces.

Complete information, including Photography Club information and artists statements:

West Plains Council on the Arts (WPCA) will host an exhibition of works by fourteen area artists in the Gallery at the Center, West Plains Civic Center from April 15 through May 20, 2023. The Gallery, on the mezzanine, is open to the public during regular Civic Center hours.

The West Plains Photography Club, which was unable to meet for three years because of the Covid pandemic, has enjoyed a rebirth beginning in January of this year. The club currently has 34 members and meetings are at 6:30 p.m. the second Monday of each month in the Missouri State University-West Plains Creative Discovery Center, 411 West Main Street, Suite 1. Everyone regardless of age or ability is invited to join the club which has no membership dues.

The purpose of the club is to share and support everyone’s passion for photography arts whether they are a beginner or have been engaged in photography for many years. Present members include some who do not even own a camera to professionals who make a living by selling their art. For more information on the club feel free to call Bob Cunningham at 417-257-8206 or Dennis Crider at 417-274-7101.

“The exhibit this spring should appeal to a wide range of viewers. You will see precision lighting in-studio portraits, amazing wildlife, beautiful scenics, still life and close-up macro subjects.,” Crider says.

Featured artists include:

 Jason Adolphson

“I have been a photographer for twenty years. My goal from the beginning has been to show others the wonderful creation that God has gifted us with. As I travel, I can’t help but think about how many people never even stop to see what’s around them in their daily travels. I want to share with others all that I see. God gave us beauty for everyday of our lives, so I feel why only stare at asphalt.

I started my business to share with the world. My goal is some day to have taken photographs in all 50 states. Every state holds some secret treasure. Our country has some of the most diverse landscapes in the world, and few of us ever get to experience them all. Through my photographs I hope to share a piece of each of my experiences with others.”

Anna Fokina-Bolhis

“I am Anna Fokina-Bolhis. My little Kodak camera got stolen from my husband’s car at work, so about a year later we bought our first DSLR camera. That was twelve years ago. Not knowing anything about photography I dove straight into learning all aspects of portrait photography using YouTube and the internet. It was a great hobby for me to pick up as I stayed home with my kids, which gave me a creative outlet from the daily routine. For a little bit I started doing family portraits professionally but had to stop doing that to concentrate on caring for our growing family, which now has seven kids. Photography has become our “family hobby,” as almost every child has their moment in wanting to photograph a project, event, or a moment. Recently I have taught a high school course of photography at our local homeschool co-op. It was a great hit. The work of my students got displayed at West Plains Public Library and had a great response rate and interest. I got to do many interesting projects and meet many interesting people, due to my hobby. I am excited to see where photography will take me in the future.”

Marc Brannan

Marc Brannan grew up on the family farm near Willow Springs, MO., and currently lives and works in West Plains, MO. He started playing with cameras and taking pictures at a very young age. He loved playing in the old barn and enjoyed being outdoors as much as possible surrounded by nature. His parents nurtured his desire to travel and see new places. His dad encouraged him to learn and enjoy history, especially the history of his family and where they came from.

“I bought my first digital camera in the early 2000’s, and it allowed me to slowly learn the craft of digital photography. In the last two years, I have really gotten more in depth, using a newer digital camera, and working hard to learn more camera techniques. I have focused more on bringing the art out in my pictures, taking a simple pic, and showing the viewer that there is so much more around us then we typically take time to see. I have found the best teacher is just going out and doing it – trying different shots, compositions, angles, lighting, and just seeing first- hand what works.

My pieces show the continued efforts I put into traveling to these places and doing my best to preserve their spirit by bringing them to life in various creative ways. To give life back to a historical place is one of the greatest gifts we can give to others.”

Dennis Crider

Photography has been a constant source of challenges for Dennis Crider beginning at the age of 4 when he picked up a Kodak Brownie box camera and started clicking the shutter. That passion began to gain momentum when he was a sophomore in high school in his hometown of Wichita, Kansas. That year he received an Ansco camera for Christmas and began an interest in sports photography. Two of his images of wrestling action made it into the West High School yearbook. The next year he was assistant photographer at a new school, Wichita High School South. He was head photographer at South his senior year, then was head photographer at Oklahoma Christian College in Oklahoma City the next four years.

Following a brief stint as owner of a photo studio in Edmond, Oklahoma he moved to West Plains in 1969 then spent the next 39 years as reporter/photographer/sports editor at The Daily Quill Newspaper. Since retirement in 2008 he aims his camera at things that don’t talk back. Wildlife, nature, scenic and still life are among his favorites as well as following Cowboy Rick Hamby’s stagecoach on its travels.

Images in this display include a 40×12-inch shot of the stagecoach rolling through the Glade Top Trail in Ozark County last year; a 24×18-inch black and white image of a blurry-on-purpose horse running at dusk; an 18×24-inch black and white photo of a bison taken at Yellowstone National Park; a 24×18-inch image of cowboys approaching an area called Devil’s Gap in northwest Oklahoma (ruts shown in this image were made by the 7th Cavalry led by Lt. Col. George Armstrong Custer beginning in 1868); and a 24×18 shot of a bison braving snow and ice in the Black Hills of South Dakota.

Bob Cunningham

Cunningham is a life-long Missourian who has lived primarily in the Ozarks. He developed an interest in photography after completing a photo-journalism class at the University of Missouri–Columbia in the early 1970s. Cunningham graduated from the University of Missouri in 1976 with a B.S. in Forest Management, and has resided in West Plains, Missouri since 1988.

Cunningham retired in 2010 after 34 years of service with the Missouri Department of Conservation working as a professional forester, and since that time has owned and operated a forest and wildlife management consulting business, plus freelance outdoor photography. His photographic works have appeared in books, videos, and other publications. His wildlife, nature, and landscape images have been captured from the South Pacific, Central America, Caribbean countries, and throughout all North America.

Artist Statement – “My photography goal is to create artistic images worthy of a lengthy view. Otherwise, the picture is merely a snapshot.”

Rachel Hendricks

Rachel is a local nature photographer and avid birder that lives in Oregon County Missouri.  Her photographic journey began in earnest back in early 2020, when she pressed pause on a career as a food safety auditor and consultant to spend more time at home with her six children and assist in their family ranching operation during the pandemic.  She hopes to capture images that inspire people to explore and appreciate the natural beauty of the Ozarks and to conserve and protect ecologically sensitive spaces for future generations.

Justin Lowe

Justin Lowe was born and raised in the Ozarks. From an early age, he demonstrated a propensity for creativity. His first creative endeavor was music. During his high school years, Justin’s passion for music propelled him to All-State Band and Choir. He then moved on to study music at the university level performing in venues such as Carnegie Hall in New York City.

While Justin still enjoys creating music, he has found another creative avenue to pursue – photography. Justin purchased his first DSLR camera in 2020. He thought he was buying a camera to capture video of worship at his church, New Hope Baptist Church in Peace Valley, where he is blessed to serve as pastor. But, when Justin started learning the camera settings to make creative compositions, he quickly discovered a passion for nature photography. Now, in Justin’s spare time, you will often find him with a camera in hand practicing the art of capturing images of God’s creation. While he has only been learning photography for a short time, Justin has already had photos published in the news media.

Samantha McFarland

A native of the area, Samantha Hawkins McFarland moved back to the Ozarks to raise a family and further her education. She has practiced photography since childhood, and describes her photos as attempts to capture a feeling or a fleeting moment in time. She also enjoys shooting images that represent her heritage.

Ralph Moore

Ralph Moore is retired from Viola Public School, where he was a teacher and counselor for many years. After retirement he became interested in photography. Today, he travels far and wide searching for interesting subjects in perfect light. His favorite subjects are landscapes, animals, travel, night photography, birds, flowers, micro, and sunrise/sunsets. Really just about anything except people!

Sally Robinson

“I started photographing when I was 17 after my brother gave me his old half-frame Yashica camera. I loved the idea of capturing a moment in time and being able to freeze a memory. Moving to West Plains in 1996 and seeing the Ozarks ignited a love of nature and landscape photography as well as appreciating the beauty of nature’s color alongside old buildings and land that probably looks the same as it did over a hundred years ago. I see pictures everywhere and find that it’s the ones I don’t take that haunt me.”

Tammy Schulz

Tammy (Gunter) Schulz was raised in West Plains, Missouri and is a West Plains High School Graduate. Tammy currently resides in Mountain View, MO with her husband Ricky. She has a degree in Advertising Design and her ability to compose an image stems from that design training. She’s had a camera in her hand since she was 10 years old and sold seeds to her neighbors and relatives to earn her first camera. She didn’t delve into 35 mm photography until 1999 when she wanted better photographs of her daughter’s dance performances. For years her favorite photography subject was her daughter, especially when she was dancing. She ventured into digital photography with her first DSLR in the early 2000’s with a Sony a100. She currently shoots with her fourth Sony and recently upgraded to the full frame Sony a7 III Mirrorless Camera.

Tammy’s photography was first published in an issue of Country Lifestyle magazine in 2008. Her photo was a Christmas lights photo taken during a Christmas festival in San Marcos, Texas. Tammy has no formal training in photography and continues to learn and practice to perfect her craft. She learns from other photographers, researching online, and practicing what she’s learned. She loves to capture old churches, mills and schools and prefers candid shots of people over formal poses. She particularly loves to capture scenes she later turns into paintings.  “Art is feeling more than seeing.”

Regina Stone

From taking pictures as a young girl to shooting professionally since 2008, Gina Stone has made photography a job that she truly loves. She enjoys making beautiful memories for family and friends, but especially photographing life’s special moments such as newborn/children’s photos, senior pictures, weddings, or even your best furry friend. In her spare time, she shoots the occasional wildflower, countryside, old barn, or really all the above. Gina Stone Photography is located on West 8th Street in West Plains.

Carr Ward

Carr “Chad” Ward was raised in West Plains, MO, graduated from West Plains High, then joined the US Navy traveling the Asia Pacific. After serving in the Navy, he traveled the country with Bechtel from 2005 to 2018 before settling back down in his hometown of West Plains.

Carr has always loved the outdoors and art. He began his photography journey as a boy, playing with various film cameras and became serious about his pursuit in the summer of 2010. Upon moving back, Carr set out to photograph the Ozarks like no one has before, often visiting places most have never seen or knew existed. Carr uses his photography to showcase the beauty and diversity of the Ozarks. His passion is shown in each photograph he captures. With each photograph he hopes to capture the natural elements in a way that the viewer is drawn in to feel as if they are there.

Carr has dedicated himself to the craft of photography, often traveling many miles just to capture a scene under the right light. Planning, scouting, traveling, and hiking are all elements that are combined with a deep passion to capture the beautiful scenery in the Ozarks. Every photo is a labor of love and enjoyment. Carr wants to accomplish two things with his photography, to glorify his Creator and to be a blessing to the viewer.

Susan Zallar

“I started taking pictures back in the 1970s with a little 35mm camera. I really enjoyed driving around Cleveland, OH, and getting black and white shots of the city and its surroundings. But life happens, and the camera was put away decades ago. A couple years ago I was getting frustrated with the quality of my cell phone photos and got my first “real” camera. Three years, three cameras, and multiple photography accouterments later, I now spend just about every free moment either taking pictures, editing pictures, or learning about taking and editing pictures. I like all kinds of photography, but I particularly enjoy taking pictures of plants and insects, macro photography, and pet portraiture.”

WPCA will host a Meet the Artists event on Saturday, April 22, from 2-4 p.m., in the Gallery at the Center. All are invited to attend, meet the artists, and discuss the pieces.  The exhibit is co-sponsored by the West Plains Civic Center and West Plains Council on the Arts, with partial funding provided by Missouri Arts Council, a state agency.

May 5 – May 27: Annual Photography Show Competition 

This non-juried annual competition show is open to all photographers. Possible categories* include color photography, monotone photography, altered photography, photo collage, macro photography, etc. Awards are given for Best of Show, 1st Place, 2nd Place, and 3rd Place entries in each category of both adult & youth divisions. People’s Choice is awarded by popular vote. No admission charged to see the show. Donations welcome.

Visit harlinmuseum.com or Harlin Museum of West Plains on Facebook for more information.

*categories are determined by the entries received for the competition

For movies currently playing and all show times, see https://www.glassswordcinema.com/

• Photo courtesy of Bob Cunningham

West Plains Council on the Arts (WPCA) will host an exhibition of works by members of the West Plains Photography Club in the Gallery at the Center (mezzanine), West Plains Civic Center from April 15 through May 20, 2023.

Fourteen area artists will participate to showcase some of their best pieces. Artists include:

Jason Adolphson
Anna Bolhis
Marc Brannan
Dennis Crider
Bob Cunningham
Rachel Hendricks
Justin Lowe
Samantha McFarland
Ralph Moore
Sally Robinson
Tammy Schulz
Regina Stone
Carr Ward
Susan Zallar

WPCA will host a Meet the Artist event on Saturday, April 22, from 2-4 p.m., in the Gallery at the Center. All are invited to attend, meet the artists, and discuss the pieces.

Complete information, including Photography Club information and artists statements:

West Plains Council on the Arts (WPCA) will host an exhibition of works by fourteen area artists in the Gallery at the Center, West Plains Civic Center from April 15 through May 20, 2023. The Gallery, on the mezzanine, is open to the public during regular Civic Center hours.

The West Plains Photography Club, which was unable to meet for three years because of the Covid pandemic, has enjoyed a rebirth beginning in January of this year. The club currently has 34 members and meetings are at 6:30 p.m. the second Monday of each month in the Missouri State University-West Plains Creative Discovery Center, 411 West Main Street, Suite 1. Everyone regardless of age or ability is invited to join the club which has no membership dues.

The purpose of the club is to share and support everyone’s passion for photography arts whether they are a beginner or have been engaged in photography for many years. Present members include some who do not even own a camera to professionals who make a living by selling their art. For more information on the club feel free to call Bob Cunningham at 417-257-8206 or Dennis Crider at 417-274-7101.

“The exhibit this spring should appeal to a wide range of viewers. You will see precision lighting in-studio portraits, amazing wildlife, beautiful scenics, still life and close-up macro subjects.,” Crider says.

Featured artists include:

 Jason Adolphson

“I have been a photographer for twenty years. My goal from the beginning has been to show others the wonderful creation that God has gifted us with. As I travel, I can’t help but think about how many people never even stop to see what’s around them in their daily travels. I want to share with others all that I see. God gave us beauty for everyday of our lives, so I feel why only stare at asphalt.

I started my business to share with the world. My goal is some day to have taken photographs in all 50 states. Every state holds some secret treasure. Our country has some of the most diverse landscapes in the world, and few of us ever get to experience them all. Through my photographs I hope to share a piece of each of my experiences with others.”

Anna Fokina-Bolhis

“I am Anna Fokina-Bolhis. My little Kodak camera got stolen from my husband’s car at work, so about a year later we bought our first DSLR camera. That was twelve years ago. Not knowing anything about photography I dove straight into learning all aspects of portrait photography using YouTube and the internet. It was a great hobby for me to pick up as I stayed home with my kids, which gave me a creative outlet from the daily routine. For a little bit I started doing family portraits professionally but had to stop doing that to concentrate on caring for our growing family, which now has seven kids. Photography has become our “family hobby,” as almost every child has their moment in wanting to photograph a project, event, or a moment. Recently I have taught a high school course of photography at our local homeschool co-op. It was a great hit. The work of my students got displayed at West Plains Public Library and had a great response rate and interest. I got to do many interesting projects and meet many interesting people, due to my hobby. I am excited to see where photography will take me in the future.”

Marc Brannan

Marc Brannan grew up on the family farm near Willow Springs, MO., and currently lives and works in West Plains, MO. He started playing with cameras and taking pictures at a very young age. He loved playing in the old barn and enjoyed being outdoors as much as possible surrounded by nature. His parents nurtured his desire to travel and see new places. His dad encouraged him to learn and enjoy history, especially the history of his family and where they came from.

“I bought my first digital camera in the early 2000’s, and it allowed me to slowly learn the craft of digital photography. In the last two years, I have really gotten more in depth, using a newer digital camera, and working hard to learn more camera techniques. I have focused more on bringing the art out in my pictures, taking a simple pic, and showing the viewer that there is so much more around us then we typically take time to see. I have found the best teacher is just going out and doing it – trying different shots, compositions, angles, lighting, and just seeing first- hand what works.

My pieces show the continued efforts I put into traveling to these places and doing my best to preserve their spirit by bringing them to life in various creative ways. To give life back to a historical place is one of the greatest gifts we can give to others.”

Dennis Crider

Photography has been a constant source of challenges for Dennis Crider beginning at the age of 4 when he picked up a Kodak Brownie box camera and started clicking the shutter. That passion began to gain momentum when he was a sophomore in high school in his hometown of Wichita, Kansas. That year he received an Ansco camera for Christmas and began an interest in sports photography. Two of his images of wrestling action made it into the West High School yearbook. The next year he was assistant photographer at a new school, Wichita High School South. He was head photographer at South his senior year, then was head photographer at Oklahoma Christian College in Oklahoma City the next four years.

Following a brief stint as owner of a photo studio in Edmond, Oklahoma he moved to West Plains in 1969 then spent the next 39 years as reporter/photographer/sports editor at The Daily Quill Newspaper. Since retirement in 2008 he aims his camera at things that don’t talk back. Wildlife, nature, scenic and still life are among his favorites as well as following Cowboy Rick Hamby’s stagecoach on its travels.

Images in this display include a 40×12-inch shot of the stagecoach rolling through the Glade Top Trail in Ozark County last year; a 24×18-inch black and white image of a blurry-on-purpose horse running at dusk; an 18×24-inch black and white photo of a bison taken at Yellowstone National Park; a 24×18-inch image of cowboys approaching an area called Devil’s Gap in northwest Oklahoma (ruts shown in this image were made by the 7th Cavalry led by Lt. Col. George Armstrong Custer beginning in 1868); and a 24×18 shot of a bison braving snow and ice in the Black Hills of South Dakota.

Bob Cunningham

Cunningham is a life-long Missourian who has lived primarily in the Ozarks. He developed an interest in photography after completing a photo-journalism class at the University of Missouri–Columbia in the early 1970s. Cunningham graduated from the University of Missouri in 1976 with a B.S. in Forest Management, and has resided in West Plains, Missouri since 1988.

Cunningham retired in 2010 after 34 years of service with the Missouri Department of Conservation working as a professional forester, and since that time has owned and operated a forest and wildlife management consulting business, plus freelance outdoor photography. His photographic works have appeared in books, videos, and other publications. His wildlife, nature, and landscape images have been captured from the South Pacific, Central America, Caribbean countries, and throughout all North America.

Artist Statement – “My photography goal is to create artistic images worthy of a lengthy view. Otherwise, the picture is merely a snapshot.”

Rachel Hendricks

Rachel is a local nature photographer and avid birder that lives in Oregon County Missouri.  Her photographic journey began in earnest back in early 2020, when she pressed pause on a career as a food safety auditor and consultant to spend more time at home with her six children and assist in their family ranching operation during the pandemic.  She hopes to capture images that inspire people to explore and appreciate the natural beauty of the Ozarks and to conserve and protect ecologically sensitive spaces for future generations.

Justin Lowe

Justin Lowe was born and raised in the Ozarks. From an early age, he demonstrated a propensity for creativity. His first creative endeavor was music. During his high school years, Justin’s passion for music propelled him to All-State Band and Choir. He then moved on to study music at the university level performing in venues such as Carnegie Hall in New York City.

While Justin still enjoys creating music, he has found another creative avenue to pursue – photography. Justin purchased his first DSLR camera in 2020. He thought he was buying a camera to capture video of worship at his church, New Hope Baptist Church in Peace Valley, where he is blessed to serve as pastor. But, when Justin started learning the camera settings to make creative compositions, he quickly discovered a passion for nature photography. Now, in Justin’s spare time, you will often find him with a camera in hand practicing the art of capturing images of God’s creation. While he has only been learning photography for a short time, Justin has already had photos published in the news media.

Samantha McFarland

A native of the area, Samantha Hawkins McFarland moved back to the Ozarks to raise a family and further her education. She has practiced photography since childhood, and describes her photos as attempts to capture a feeling or a fleeting moment in time. She also enjoys shooting images that represent her heritage.

Ralph Moore

Ralph Moore is retired from Viola Public School, where he was a teacher and counselor for many years. After retirement he became interested in photography. Today, he travels far and wide searching for interesting subjects in perfect light. His favorite subjects are landscapes, animals, travel, night photography, birds, flowers, micro, and sunrise/sunsets. Really just about anything except people!

Sally Robinson

“I started photographing when I was 17 after my brother gave me his old half-frame Yashica camera. I loved the idea of capturing a moment in time and being able to freeze a memory. Moving to West Plains in 1996 and seeing the Ozarks ignited a love of nature and landscape photography as well as appreciating the beauty of nature’s color alongside old buildings and land that probably looks the same as it did over a hundred years ago. I see pictures everywhere and find that it’s the ones I don’t take that haunt me.”

Tammy Schulz

Tammy (Gunter) Schulz was raised in West Plains, Missouri and is a West Plains High School Graduate. Tammy currently resides in Mountain View, MO with her husband Ricky. She has a degree in Advertising Design and her ability to compose an image stems from that design training. She’s had a camera in her hand since she was 10 years old and sold seeds to her neighbors and relatives to earn her first camera. She didn’t delve into 35 mm photography until 1999 when she wanted better photographs of her daughter’s dance performances. For years her favorite photography subject was her daughter, especially when she was dancing. She ventured into digital photography with her first DSLR in the early 2000’s with a Sony a100. She currently shoots with her fourth Sony and recently upgraded to the full frame Sony a7 III Mirrorless Camera.

Tammy’s photography was first published in an issue of Country Lifestyle magazine in 2008. Her photo was a Christmas lights photo taken during a Christmas festival in San Marcos, Texas. Tammy has no formal training in photography and continues to learn and practice to perfect her craft. She learns from other photographers, researching online, and practicing what she’s learned. She loves to capture old churches, mills and schools and prefers candid shots of people over formal poses. She particularly loves to capture scenes she later turns into paintings.  “Art is feeling more than seeing.”

Regina Stone

From taking pictures as a young girl to shooting professionally since 2008, Gina Stone has made photography a job that she truly loves. She enjoys making beautiful memories for family and friends, but especially photographing life’s special moments such as newborn/children’s photos, senior pictures, weddings, or even your best furry friend. In her spare time, she shoots the occasional wildflower, countryside, old barn, or really all the above. Gina Stone Photography is located on West 8th Street in West Plains.

Carr Ward

Carr “Chad” Ward was raised in West Plains, MO, graduated from West Plains High, then joined the US Navy traveling the Asia Pacific. After serving in the Navy, he traveled the country with Bechtel from 2005 to 2018 before settling back down in his hometown of West Plains.

Carr has always loved the outdoors and art. He began his photography journey as a boy, playing with various film cameras and became serious about his pursuit in the summer of 2010. Upon moving back, Carr set out to photograph the Ozarks like no one has before, often visiting places most have never seen or knew existed. Carr uses his photography to showcase the beauty and diversity of the Ozarks. His passion is shown in each photograph he captures. With each photograph he hopes to capture the natural elements in a way that the viewer is drawn in to feel as if they are there.

Carr has dedicated himself to the craft of photography, often traveling many miles just to capture a scene under the right light. Planning, scouting, traveling, and hiking are all elements that are combined with a deep passion to capture the beautiful scenery in the Ozarks. Every photo is a labor of love and enjoyment. Carr wants to accomplish two things with his photography, to glorify his Creator and to be a blessing to the viewer.

Susan Zallar

“I started taking pictures back in the 1970s with a little 35mm camera. I really enjoyed driving around Cleveland, OH, and getting black and white shots of the city and its surroundings. But life happens, and the camera was put away decades ago. A couple years ago I was getting frustrated with the quality of my cell phone photos and got my first “real” camera. Three years, three cameras, and multiple photography accouterments later, I now spend just about every free moment either taking pictures, editing pictures, or learning about taking and editing pictures. I like all kinds of photography, but I particularly enjoy taking pictures of plants and insects, macro photography, and pet portraiture.”

WPCA will host a Meet the Artists event on Saturday, April 22, from 2-4 p.m., in the Gallery at the Center. All are invited to attend, meet the artists, and discuss the pieces.  The exhibit is co-sponsored by the West Plains Civic Center and West Plains Council on the Arts, with partial funding provided by Missouri Arts Council, a state agency.

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 artist Barbara Robinette’s works will be featured inside OzSBI’s first floor March 31 through the end of June 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, “Barbara’s watercolors are loose, colorful, and nostalgic; reminding one of times gone by.”

About the artist:

Though she minored in art, Barbara Robinette dropped out of college to go to work and learn on her own. She is a member of West Plains Ventures in Art group and is self-taught in the art of watercolor.  Robinette also is a free verse poet, leaning today towards haiga art, which combines images with haiku. Daily Haiga has posted online five of her haiga, and Quill and Parchment poetry journal has featured some of her art online. Highland Park Poetry Publications has published one of her haiga in their book, The Majesty of Trees.  The Haiku Foundation has scheduled some of her haiga art to be posted online in April 2023.

Remembering that one of her professors said that a painting should be “pleasing to the eye,” she enjoys playing with paint and water to see what might develop.

A Meet-the-Artist event will be held on Thursday, April 27, 2-4 p.m. in OzSBI’s lobby at 408 Washington Ave. in West Plains. The public is invited to attend to meet Robinette 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.

Robinette artwork – “Singing at the Met”

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.

The West Plains Council on the Arts (WPCA) and West Plains Public Library (WPPL) will partner to bring quarterly art displays to the library. Art teachers from West Plains R-7 schools will be featured March 9 through the end of June 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.

WPCA Coordinator Janey Hale says, “West Plains is fortunate to have art teachers that excel in drawing out their students’ creative abilities. WPCA is excited to showcase the teachers’ artwork. This is an opportunity to view what they do that inspires them to inspire their students.”

WPPL Director Shawnie Kennedy shares, “We are so excited to have the art teachers of our community displaying their work in the library.  Not only are they artists, but they use their talent and love for art to inspire our youth. They are true masters!”

About the Artists:

Mary-Louise Grisham Nash – West Plains based artist/art teacher, Mary-Louise Grisham Nash has been passionate about art for the majority of her life.  Originally from West Plains, Mary-Louise attended Drury University in Springfield, Missouri, where she received her bachelor’s in design arts, emphasis in photography, with a minor in art history. During her studies, she traveled and studied at the Santa Reparata International School for the Arts in Florence, Italy, where she was influenced and inspired by the art history, architecture, and landscapes of the region.  Upon graduation, she went on to receive her Master of Arts of Teaching at Missouri State University.  After earning her Masters, she returned to West Plains to start a career in Art Education at West Plains R-7 school district.  She is currently in her 11th year as the middle school visual art instructor.  She is passionate and inspired by student’s love and drive to learn new creative things, and also by the beautiful colors that she is surrounded by every day right here in the Ozarks.

Kathy Grigsby is a retired West Plains R-7 Art Teacher. While enjoying retirement she also teaches part time at South Fork Elementary. Kathy has painted many murals over the years for businesses and homes. Her most recent being the murals at The Truck Patch she and artist Cindy Temple collaborated with together. She also has donated many paintings including Santa’s as auction items for various fundraisers and events.

In her retirement she has found more time to be in front of her easel with opportunities to take many workshops with Regina Willard exploring painting techniques. As a result, she has carried this over to her teaching which has enlightened her instruction in the process of art. She states that “art is a process of mark making” and enjoys her students’ art more with that perspective. Kathy is married to Rick Grigsby and they have 3 grown children and 3 grandchildren.

Karen Pitts is currently in her third year of teaching art at West Plains High School and spent thirteen years teaching art at Willow Springs Middle School.  She also teaches art at the Harlin Museum in West Plains and is the owner and operator of a painting party business “Treat Your Palette” teaching adult painting.  Karen started her lifelong love of the arts at the early age of seven.  Her first acrylic paints at the age of nine started her love for painting and have continued that love to today.  Her goal after retirement is to continue teaching art, hosting painting parties, and starting an online kid’s art program.  Karen has three daughters and seven grandkids and enjoys visiting family and grandkids back home in Oklahoma City.

Audrey Scott is a painter and art educator from West Plains, MO. “I have been painting since I was a child, always entranced by color and the emotional depth it is able to capture and evoke. In high school I developed a keenness for working in a more abstract approach, and that style has continued to evolve over the years. After high school, I obtained a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree with a Minor in Art History from Missouri State University, and have had the opportunity to exhibit my work in galleries including Cottey College in Nevada, MO and Obelisk Home in Springfield, MO. I currently have the privilege of teaching art at West Plains High School.”

A Meet-the-Artists event will be held on Monday, April 17, 2023, 4-6 p.m. at the library, 750 W. Broadway, in West Plains. The public is invited to attend, meet the artists, view, and discuss the pieces on display. Partial funding for this exhibit is provided by the Missouri Arts Council, a state agency.

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.

Sign up for the program on Wednesdays, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. through the month of June. See flyer or call 417-256-4055 for details required for qualification.

Check West Plains Senior Center on Facebook for details all events at the center and schedule for recurring activities.

From organizers:

All ladies are invited to join the Mother’s Day Tea Party hosted by Joy at the West Plains Senior Center dining room. Enjoy a lovely afternoon of tea, cakes, and other tasty treats. For information call 417-256-4055.

• Photo courtesy of Bob Cunningham

West Plains Council on the Arts (WPCA) will host an exhibition of works by members of the West Plains Photography Club in the Gallery at the Center (mezzanine), West Plains Civic Center from April 15 through May 20, 2023.

Fourteen area artists will participate to showcase some of their best pieces. Artists include:

Jason Adolphson
Anna Bolhis
Marc Brannan
Dennis Crider
Bob Cunningham
Rachel Hendricks
Justin Lowe
Samantha McFarland
Ralph Moore
Sally Robinson
Tammy Schulz
Regina Stone
Carr Ward
Susan Zallar

WPCA will host a Meet the Artist event on Saturday, April 22, from 2-4 p.m., in the Gallery at the Center. All are invited to attend, meet the artists, and discuss the pieces.

Complete information, including Photography Club information and artists statements:

West Plains Council on the Arts (WPCA) will host an exhibition of works by fourteen area artists in the Gallery at the Center, West Plains Civic Center from April 15 through May 20, 2023. The Gallery, on the mezzanine, is open to the public during regular Civic Center hours.

The West Plains Photography Club, which was unable to meet for three years because of the Covid pandemic, has enjoyed a rebirth beginning in January of this year. The club currently has 34 members and meetings are at 6:30 p.m. the second Monday of each month in the Missouri State University-West Plains Creative Discovery Center, 411 West Main Street, Suite 1. Everyone regardless of age or ability is invited to join the club which has no membership dues.

The purpose of the club is to share and support everyone’s passion for photography arts whether they are a beginner or have been engaged in photography for many years. Present members include some who do not even own a camera to professionals who make a living by selling their art. For more information on the club feel free to call Bob Cunningham at 417-257-8206 or Dennis Crider at 417-274-7101.

“The exhibit this spring should appeal to a wide range of viewers. You will see precision lighting in-studio portraits, amazing wildlife, beautiful scenics, still life and close-up macro subjects.,” Crider says.

Featured artists include:

 Jason Adolphson

“I have been a photographer for twenty years. My goal from the beginning has been to show others the wonderful creation that God has gifted us with. As I travel, I can’t help but think about how many people never even stop to see what’s around them in their daily travels. I want to share with others all that I see. God gave us beauty for everyday of our lives, so I feel why only stare at asphalt.

I started my business to share with the world. My goal is some day to have taken photographs in all 50 states. Every state holds some secret treasure. Our country has some of the most diverse landscapes in the world, and few of us ever get to experience them all. Through my photographs I hope to share a piece of each of my experiences with others.”

Anna Fokina-Bolhis

“I am Anna Fokina-Bolhis. My little Kodak camera got stolen from my husband’s car at work, so about a year later we bought our first DSLR camera. That was twelve years ago. Not knowing anything about photography I dove straight into learning all aspects of portrait photography using YouTube and the internet. It was a great hobby for me to pick up as I stayed home with my kids, which gave me a creative outlet from the daily routine. For a little bit I started doing family portraits professionally but had to stop doing that to concentrate on caring for our growing family, which now has seven kids. Photography has become our “family hobby,” as almost every child has their moment in wanting to photograph a project, event, or a moment. Recently I have taught a high school course of photography at our local homeschool co-op. It was a great hit. The work of my students got displayed at West Plains Public Library and had a great response rate and interest. I got to do many interesting projects and meet many interesting people, due to my hobby. I am excited to see where photography will take me in the future.”

Marc Brannan

Marc Brannan grew up on the family farm near Willow Springs, MO., and currently lives and works in West Plains, MO. He started playing with cameras and taking pictures at a very young age. He loved playing in the old barn and enjoyed being outdoors as much as possible surrounded by nature. His parents nurtured his desire to travel and see new places. His dad encouraged him to learn and enjoy history, especially the history of his family and where they came from.

“I bought my first digital camera in the early 2000’s, and it allowed me to slowly learn the craft of digital photography. In the last two years, I have really gotten more in depth, using a newer digital camera, and working hard to learn more camera techniques. I have focused more on bringing the art out in my pictures, taking a simple pic, and showing the viewer that there is so much more around us then we typically take time to see. I have found the best teacher is just going out and doing it – trying different shots, compositions, angles, lighting, and just seeing first- hand what works.

My pieces show the continued efforts I put into traveling to these places and doing my best to preserve their spirit by bringing them to life in various creative ways. To give life back to a historical place is one of the greatest gifts we can give to others.”

Dennis Crider

Photography has been a constant source of challenges for Dennis Crider beginning at the age of 4 when he picked up a Kodak Brownie box camera and started clicking the shutter. That passion began to gain momentum when he was a sophomore in high school in his hometown of Wichita, Kansas. That year he received an Ansco camera for Christmas and began an interest in sports photography. Two of his images of wrestling action made it into the West High School yearbook. The next year he was assistant photographer at a new school, Wichita High School South. He was head photographer at South his senior year, then was head photographer at Oklahoma Christian College in Oklahoma City the next four years.

Following a brief stint as owner of a photo studio in Edmond, Oklahoma he moved to West Plains in 1969 then spent the next 39 years as reporter/photographer/sports editor at The Daily Quill Newspaper. Since retirement in 2008 he aims his camera at things that don’t talk back. Wildlife, nature, scenic and still life are among his favorites as well as following Cowboy Rick Hamby’s stagecoach on its travels.

Images in this display include a 40×12-inch shot of the stagecoach rolling through the Glade Top Trail in Ozark County last year; a 24×18-inch black and white image of a blurry-on-purpose horse running at dusk; an 18×24-inch black and white photo of a bison taken at Yellowstone National Park; a 24×18-inch image of cowboys approaching an area called Devil’s Gap in northwest Oklahoma (ruts shown in this image were made by the 7th Cavalry led by Lt. Col. George Armstrong Custer beginning in 1868); and a 24×18 shot of a bison braving snow and ice in the Black Hills of South Dakota.

Bob Cunningham

Cunningham is a life-long Missourian who has lived primarily in the Ozarks. He developed an interest in photography after completing a photo-journalism class at the University of Missouri–Columbia in the early 1970s. Cunningham graduated from the University of Missouri in 1976 with a B.S. in Forest Management, and has resided in West Plains, Missouri since 1988.

Cunningham retired in 2010 after 34 years of service with the Missouri Department of Conservation working as a professional forester, and since that time has owned and operated a forest and wildlife management consulting business, plus freelance outdoor photography. His photographic works have appeared in books, videos, and other publications. His wildlife, nature, and landscape images have been captured from the South Pacific, Central America, Caribbean countries, and throughout all North America.

Artist Statement – “My photography goal is to create artistic images worthy of a lengthy view. Otherwise, the picture is merely a snapshot.”

Rachel Hendricks

Rachel is a local nature photographer and avid birder that lives in Oregon County Missouri.  Her photographic journey began in earnest back in early 2020, when she pressed pause on a career as a food safety auditor and consultant to spend more time at home with her six children and assist in their family ranching operation during the pandemic.  She hopes to capture images that inspire people to explore and appreciate the natural beauty of the Ozarks and to conserve and protect ecologically sensitive spaces for future generations.

Justin Lowe

Justin Lowe was born and raised in the Ozarks. From an early age, he demonstrated a propensity for creativity. His first creative endeavor was music. During his high school years, Justin’s passion for music propelled him to All-State Band and Choir. He then moved on to study music at the university level performing in venues such as Carnegie Hall in New York City.

While Justin still enjoys creating music, he has found another creative avenue to pursue – photography. Justin purchased his first DSLR camera in 2020. He thought he was buying a camera to capture video of worship at his church, New Hope Baptist Church in Peace Valley, where he is blessed to serve as pastor. But, when Justin started learning the camera settings to make creative compositions, he quickly discovered a passion for nature photography. Now, in Justin’s spare time, you will often find him with a camera in hand practicing the art of capturing images of God’s creation. While he has only been learning photography for a short time, Justin has already had photos published in the news media.

Samantha McFarland

A native of the area, Samantha Hawkins McFarland moved back to the Ozarks to raise a family and further her education. She has practiced photography since childhood, and describes her photos as attempts to capture a feeling or a fleeting moment in time. She also enjoys shooting images that represent her heritage.

Ralph Moore

Ralph Moore is retired from Viola Public School, where he was a teacher and counselor for many years. After retirement he became interested in photography. Today, he travels far and wide searching for interesting subjects in perfect light. His favorite subjects are landscapes, animals, travel, night photography, birds, flowers, micro, and sunrise/sunsets. Really just about anything except people!

Sally Robinson

“I started photographing when I was 17 after my brother gave me his old half-frame Yashica camera. I loved the idea of capturing a moment in time and being able to freeze a memory. Moving to West Plains in 1996 and seeing the Ozarks ignited a love of nature and landscape photography as well as appreciating the beauty of nature’s color alongside old buildings and land that probably looks the same as it did over a hundred years ago. I see pictures everywhere and find that it’s the ones I don’t take that haunt me.”

Tammy Schulz

Tammy (Gunter) Schulz was raised in West Plains, Missouri and is a West Plains High School Graduate. Tammy currently resides in Mountain View, MO with her husband Ricky. She has a degree in Advertising Design and her ability to compose an image stems from that design training. She’s had a camera in her hand since she was 10 years old and sold seeds to her neighbors and relatives to earn her first camera. She didn’t delve into 35 mm photography until 1999 when she wanted better photographs of her daughter’s dance performances. For years her favorite photography subject was her daughter, especially when she was dancing. She ventured into digital photography with her first DSLR in the early 2000’s with a Sony a100. She currently shoots with her fourth Sony and recently upgraded to the full frame Sony a7 III Mirrorless Camera.

Tammy’s photography was first published in an issue of Country Lifestyle magazine in 2008. Her photo was a Christmas lights photo taken during a Christmas festival in San Marcos, Texas. Tammy has no formal training in photography and continues to learn and practice to perfect her craft. She learns from other photographers, researching online, and practicing what she’s learned. She loves to capture old churches, mills and schools and prefers candid shots of people over formal poses. She particularly loves to capture scenes she later turns into paintings.  “Art is feeling more than seeing.”

Regina Stone

From taking pictures as a young girl to shooting professionally since 2008, Gina Stone has made photography a job that she truly loves. She enjoys making beautiful memories for family and friends, but especially photographing life’s special moments such as newborn/children’s photos, senior pictures, weddings, or even your best furry friend. In her spare time, she shoots the occasional wildflower, countryside, old barn, or really all the above. Gina Stone Photography is located on West 8th Street in West Plains.

Carr Ward

Carr “Chad” Ward was raised in West Plains, MO, graduated from West Plains High, then joined the US Navy traveling the Asia Pacific. After serving in the Navy, he traveled the country with Bechtel from 2005 to 2018 before settling back down in his hometown of West Plains.

Carr has always loved the outdoors and art. He began his photography journey as a boy, playing with various film cameras and became serious about his pursuit in the summer of 2010. Upon moving back, Carr set out to photograph the Ozarks like no one has before, often visiting places most have never seen or knew existed. Carr uses his photography to showcase the beauty and diversity of the Ozarks. His passion is shown in each photograph he captures. With each photograph he hopes to capture the natural elements in a way that the viewer is drawn in to feel as if they are there.

Carr has dedicated himself to the craft of photography, often traveling many miles just to capture a scene under the right light. Planning, scouting, traveling, and hiking are all elements that are combined with a deep passion to capture the beautiful scenery in the Ozarks. Every photo is a labor of love and enjoyment. Carr wants to accomplish two things with his photography, to glorify his Creator and to be a blessing to the viewer.

Susan Zallar

“I started taking pictures back in the 1970s with a little 35mm camera. I really enjoyed driving around Cleveland, OH, and getting black and white shots of the city and its surroundings. But life happens, and the camera was put away decades ago. A couple years ago I was getting frustrated with the quality of my cell phone photos and got my first “real” camera. Three years, three cameras, and multiple photography accouterments later, I now spend just about every free moment either taking pictures, editing pictures, or learning about taking and editing pictures. I like all kinds of photography, but I particularly enjoy taking pictures of plants and insects, macro photography, and pet portraiture.”

WPCA will host a Meet the Artists event on Saturday, April 22, from 2-4 p.m., in the Gallery at the Center. All are invited to attend, meet the artists, and discuss the pieces.  The exhibit is co-sponsored by the West Plains Civic Center and West Plains Council on the Arts, with partial funding provided by Missouri Arts Council, a state agency.

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 artist Barbara Robinette’s works will be featured inside OzSBI’s first floor March 31 through the end of June 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, “Barbara’s watercolors are loose, colorful, and nostalgic; reminding one of times gone by.”

About the artist:

Though she minored in art, Barbara Robinette dropped out of college to go to work and learn on her own. She is a member of West Plains Ventures in Art group and is self-taught in the art of watercolor.  Robinette also is a free verse poet, leaning today towards haiga art, which combines images with haiku. Daily Haiga has posted online five of her haiga, and Quill and Parchment poetry journal has featured some of her art online. Highland Park Poetry Publications has published one of her haiga in their book, The Majesty of Trees.  The Haiku Foundation has scheduled some of her haiga art to be posted online in April 2023.

Remembering that one of her professors said that a painting should be “pleasing to the eye,” she enjoys playing with paint and water to see what might develop.

A Meet-the-Artist event will be held on Thursday, April 27, 2-4 p.m. in OzSBI’s lobby at 408 Washington Ave. in West Plains. The public is invited to attend to meet Robinette 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.

Robinette artwork – “Singing at the Met”

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.

The West Plains Council on the Arts (WPCA) and West Plains Public Library (WPPL) will partner to bring quarterly art displays to the library. Art teachers from West Plains R-7 schools will be featured March 9 through the end of June 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.

WPCA Coordinator Janey Hale says, “West Plains is fortunate to have art teachers that excel in drawing out their students’ creative abilities. WPCA is excited to showcase the teachers’ artwork. This is an opportunity to view what they do that inspires them to inspire their students.”

WPPL Director Shawnie Kennedy shares, “We are so excited to have the art teachers of our community displaying their work in the library.  Not only are they artists, but they use their talent and love for art to inspire our youth. They are true masters!”

About the Artists:

Mary-Louise Grisham Nash – West Plains based artist/art teacher, Mary-Louise Grisham Nash has been passionate about art for the majority of her life.  Originally from West Plains, Mary-Louise attended Drury University in Springfield, Missouri, where she received her bachelor’s in design arts, emphasis in photography, with a minor in art history. During her studies, she traveled and studied at the Santa Reparata International School for the Arts in Florence, Italy, where she was influenced and inspired by the art history, architecture, and landscapes of the region.  Upon graduation, she went on to receive her Master of Arts of Teaching at Missouri State University.  After earning her Masters, she returned to West Plains to start a career in Art Education at West Plains R-7 school district.  She is currently in her 11th year as the middle school visual art instructor.  She is passionate and inspired by student’s love and drive to learn new creative things, and also by the beautiful colors that she is surrounded by every day right here in the Ozarks.

Kathy Grigsby is a retired West Plains R-7 Art Teacher. While enjoying retirement she also teaches part time at South Fork Elementary. Kathy has painted many murals over the years for businesses and homes. Her most recent being the murals at The Truck Patch she and artist Cindy Temple collaborated with together. She also has donated many paintings including Santa’s as auction items for various fundraisers and events.

In her retirement she has found more time to be in front of her easel with opportunities to take many workshops with Regina Willard exploring painting techniques. As a result, she has carried this over to her teaching which has enlightened her instruction in the process of art. She states that “art is a process of mark making” and enjoys her students’ art more with that perspective. Kathy is married to Rick Grigsby and they have 3 grown children and 3 grandchildren.

Karen Pitts is currently in her third year of teaching art at West Plains High School and spent thirteen years teaching art at Willow Springs Middle School.  She also teaches art at the Harlin Museum in West Plains and is the owner and operator of a painting party business “Treat Your Palette” teaching adult painting.  Karen started her lifelong love of the arts at the early age of seven.  Her first acrylic paints at the age of nine started her love for painting and have continued that love to today.  Her goal after retirement is to continue teaching art, hosting painting parties, and starting an online kid’s art program.  Karen has three daughters and seven grandkids and enjoys visiting family and grandkids back home in Oklahoma City.

Audrey Scott is a painter and art educator from West Plains, MO. “I have been painting since I was a child, always entranced by color and the emotional depth it is able to capture and evoke. In high school I developed a keenness for working in a more abstract approach, and that style has continued to evolve over the years. After high school, I obtained a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree with a Minor in Art History from Missouri State University, and have had the opportunity to exhibit my work in galleries including Cottey College in Nevada, MO and Obelisk Home in Springfield, MO. I currently have the privilege of teaching art at West Plains High School.”

A Meet-the-Artists event will be held on Monday, April 17, 2023, 4-6 p.m. at the library, 750 W. Broadway, in West Plains. The public is invited to attend, meet the artists, view, and discuss the pieces on display. Partial funding for this exhibit is provided by the Missouri Arts Council, a state agency.

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.

• Photo courtesy of Bob Cunningham

West Plains Council on the Arts (WPCA) will host an exhibition of works by members of the West Plains Photography Club in the Gallery at the Center (mezzanine), West Plains Civic Center from April 15 through May 20, 2023.

Fourteen area artists will participate to showcase some of their best pieces. Artists include:

Jason Adolphson
Anna Bolhis
Marc Brannan
Dennis Crider
Bob Cunningham
Rachel Hendricks
Justin Lowe
Samantha McFarland
Ralph Moore
Sally Robinson
Tammy Schulz
Regina Stone
Carr Ward
Susan Zallar

WPCA will host a Meet the Artist event on Saturday, April 22, from 2-4 p.m., in the Gallery at the Center. All are invited to attend, meet the artists, and discuss the pieces.

Complete information, including Photography Club information and artists statements:

West Plains Council on the Arts (WPCA) will host an exhibition of works by fourteen area artists in the Gallery at the Center, West Plains Civic Center from April 15 through May 20, 2023. The Gallery, on the mezzanine, is open to the public during regular Civic Center hours.

The West Plains Photography Club, which was unable to meet for three years because of the Covid pandemic, has enjoyed a rebirth beginning in January of this year. The club currently has 34 members and meetings are at 6:30 p.m. the second Monday of each month in the Missouri State University-West Plains Creative Discovery Center, 411 West Main Street, Suite 1. Everyone regardless of age or ability is invited to join the club which has no membership dues.

The purpose of the club is to share and support everyone’s passion for photography arts whether they are a beginner or have been engaged in photography for many years. Present members include some who do not even own a camera to professionals who make a living by selling their art. For more information on the club feel free to call Bob Cunningham at 417-257-8206 or Dennis Crider at 417-274-7101.

“The exhibit this spring should appeal to a wide range of viewers. You will see precision lighting in-studio portraits, amazing wildlife, beautiful scenics, still life and close-up macro subjects.,” Crider says.

Featured artists include:

 Jason Adolphson

“I have been a photographer for twenty years. My goal from the beginning has been to show others the wonderful creation that God has gifted us with. As I travel, I can’t help but think about how many people never even stop to see what’s around them in their daily travels. I want to share with others all that I see. God gave us beauty for everyday of our lives, so I feel why only stare at asphalt.

I started my business to share with the world. My goal is some day to have taken photographs in all 50 states. Every state holds some secret treasure. Our country has some of the most diverse landscapes in the world, and few of us ever get to experience them all. Through my photographs I hope to share a piece of each of my experiences with others.”

Anna Fokina-Bolhis

“I am Anna Fokina-Bolhis. My little Kodak camera got stolen from my husband’s car at work, so about a year later we bought our first DSLR camera. That was twelve years ago. Not knowing anything about photography I dove straight into learning all aspects of portrait photography using YouTube and the internet. It was a great hobby for me to pick up as I stayed home with my kids, which gave me a creative outlet from the daily routine. For a little bit I started doing family portraits professionally but had to stop doing that to concentrate on caring for our growing family, which now has seven kids. Photography has become our “family hobby,” as almost every child has their moment in wanting to photograph a project, event, or a moment. Recently I have taught a high school course of photography at our local homeschool co-op. It was a great hit. The work of my students got displayed at West Plains Public Library and had a great response rate and interest. I got to do many interesting projects and meet many interesting people, due to my hobby. I am excited to see where photography will take me in the future.”

Marc Brannan

Marc Brannan grew up on the family farm near Willow Springs, MO., and currently lives and works in West Plains, MO. He started playing with cameras and taking pictures at a very young age. He loved playing in the old barn and enjoyed being outdoors as much as possible surrounded by nature. His parents nurtured his desire to travel and see new places. His dad encouraged him to learn and enjoy history, especially the history of his family and where they came from.

“I bought my first digital camera in the early 2000’s, and it allowed me to slowly learn the craft of digital photography. In the last two years, I have really gotten more in depth, using a newer digital camera, and working hard to learn more camera techniques. I have focused more on bringing the art out in my pictures, taking a simple pic, and showing the viewer that there is so much more around us then we typically take time to see. I have found the best teacher is just going out and doing it – trying different shots, compositions, angles, lighting, and just seeing first- hand what works.

My pieces show the continued efforts I put into traveling to these places and doing my best to preserve their spirit by bringing them to life in various creative ways. To give life back to a historical place is one of the greatest gifts we can give to others.”

Dennis Crider

Photography has been a constant source of challenges for Dennis Crider beginning at the age of 4 when he picked up a Kodak Brownie box camera and started clicking the shutter. That passion began to gain momentum when he was a sophomore in high school in his hometown of Wichita, Kansas. That year he received an Ansco camera for Christmas and began an interest in sports photography. Two of his images of wrestling action made it into the West High School yearbook. The next year he was assistant photographer at a new school, Wichita High School South. He was head photographer at South his senior year, then was head photographer at Oklahoma Christian College in Oklahoma City the next four years.

Following a brief stint as owner of a photo studio in Edmond, Oklahoma he moved to West Plains in 1969 then spent the next 39 years as reporter/photographer/sports editor at The Daily Quill Newspaper. Since retirement in 2008 he aims his camera at things that don’t talk back. Wildlife, nature, scenic and still life are among his favorites as well as following Cowboy Rick Hamby’s stagecoach on its travels.

Images in this display include a 40×12-inch shot of the stagecoach rolling through the Glade Top Trail in Ozark County last year; a 24×18-inch black and white image of a blurry-on-purpose horse running at dusk; an 18×24-inch black and white photo of a bison taken at Yellowstone National Park; a 24×18-inch image of cowboys approaching an area called Devil’s Gap in northwest Oklahoma (ruts shown in this image were made by the 7th Cavalry led by Lt. Col. George Armstrong Custer beginning in 1868); and a 24×18 shot of a bison braving snow and ice in the Black Hills of South Dakota.

Bob Cunningham

Cunningham is a life-long Missourian who has lived primarily in the Ozarks. He developed an interest in photography after completing a photo-journalism class at the University of Missouri–Columbia in the early 1970s. Cunningham graduated from the University of Missouri in 1976 with a B.S. in Forest Management, and has resided in West Plains, Missouri since 1988.

Cunningham retired in 2010 after 34 years of service with the Missouri Department of Conservation working as a professional forester, and since that time has owned and operated a forest and wildlife management consulting business, plus freelance outdoor photography. His photographic works have appeared in books, videos, and other publications. His wildlife, nature, and landscape images have been captured from the South Pacific, Central America, Caribbean countries, and throughout all North America.

Artist Statement – “My photography goal is to create artistic images worthy of a lengthy view. Otherwise, the picture is merely a snapshot.”

Rachel Hendricks

Rachel is a local nature photographer and avid birder that lives in Oregon County Missouri.  Her photographic journey began in earnest back in early 2020, when she pressed pause on a career as a food safety auditor and consultant to spend more time at home with her six children and assist in their family ranching operation during the pandemic.  She hopes to capture images that inspire people to explore and appreciate the natural beauty of the Ozarks and to conserve and protect ecologically sensitive spaces for future generations.

Justin Lowe

Justin Lowe was born and raised in the Ozarks. From an early age, he demonstrated a propensity for creativity. His first creative endeavor was music. During his high school years, Justin’s passion for music propelled him to All-State Band and Choir. He then moved on to study music at the university level performing in venues such as Carnegie Hall in New York City.

While Justin still enjoys creating music, he has found another creative avenue to pursue – photography. Justin purchased his first DSLR camera in 2020. He thought he was buying a camera to capture video of worship at his church, New Hope Baptist Church in Peace Valley, where he is blessed to serve as pastor. But, when Justin started learning the camera settings to make creative compositions, he quickly discovered a passion for nature photography. Now, in Justin’s spare time, you will often find him with a camera in hand practicing the art of capturing images of God’s creation. While he has only been learning photography for a short time, Justin has already had photos published in the news media.

Samantha McFarland

A native of the area, Samantha Hawkins McFarland moved back to the Ozarks to raise a family and further her education. She has practiced photography since childhood, and describes her photos as attempts to capture a feeling or a fleeting moment in time. She also enjoys shooting images that represent her heritage.

Ralph Moore

Ralph Moore is retired from Viola Public School, where he was a teacher and counselor for many years. After retirement he became interested in photography. Today, he travels far and wide searching for interesting subjects in perfect light. His favorite subjects are landscapes, animals, travel, night photography, birds, flowers, micro, and sunrise/sunsets. Really just about anything except people!

Sally Robinson

“I started photographing when I was 17 after my brother gave me his old half-frame Yashica camera. I loved the idea of capturing a moment in time and being able to freeze a memory. Moving to West Plains in 1996 and seeing the Ozarks ignited a love of nature and landscape photography as well as appreciating the beauty of nature’s color alongside old buildings and land that probably looks the same as it did over a hundred years ago. I see pictures everywhere and find that it’s the ones I don’t take that haunt me.”

Tammy Schulz

Tammy (Gunter) Schulz was raised in West Plains, Missouri and is a West Plains High School Graduate. Tammy currently resides in Mountain View, MO with her husband Ricky. She has a degree in Advertising Design and her ability to compose an image stems from that design training. She’s had a camera in her hand since she was 10 years old and sold seeds to her neighbors and relatives to earn her first camera. She didn’t delve into 35 mm photography until 1999 when she wanted better photographs of her daughter’s dance performances. For years her favorite photography subject was her daughter, especially when she was dancing. She ventured into digital photography with her first DSLR in the early 2000’s with a Sony a100. She currently shoots with her fourth Sony and recently upgraded to the full frame Sony a7 III Mirrorless Camera.

Tammy’s photography was first published in an issue of Country Lifestyle magazine in 2008. Her photo was a Christmas lights photo taken during a Christmas festival in San Marcos, Texas. Tammy has no formal training in photography and continues to learn and practice to perfect her craft. She learns from other photographers, researching online, and practicing what she’s learned. She loves to capture old churches, mills and schools and prefers candid shots of people over formal poses. She particularly loves to capture scenes she later turns into paintings.  “Art is feeling more than seeing.”

Regina Stone

From taking pictures as a young girl to shooting professionally since 2008, Gina Stone has made photography a job that she truly loves. She enjoys making beautiful memories for family and friends, but especially photographing life’s special moments such as newborn/children’s photos, senior pictures, weddings, or even your best furry friend. In her spare time, she shoots the occasional wildflower, countryside, old barn, or really all the above. Gina Stone Photography is located on West 8th Street in West Plains.

Carr Ward

Carr “Chad” Ward was raised in West Plains, MO, graduated from West Plains High, then joined the US Navy traveling the Asia Pacific. After serving in the Navy, he traveled the country with Bechtel from 2005 to 2018 before settling back down in his hometown of West Plains.

Carr has always loved the outdoors and art. He began his photography journey as a boy, playing with various film cameras and became serious about his pursuit in the summer of 2010. Upon moving back, Carr set out to photograph the Ozarks like no one has before, often visiting places most have never seen or knew existed. Carr uses his photography to showcase the beauty and diversity of the Ozarks. His passion is shown in each photograph he captures. With each photograph he hopes to capture the natural elements in a way that the viewer is drawn in to feel as if they are there.

Carr has dedicated himself to the craft of photography, often traveling many miles just to capture a scene under the right light. Planning, scouting, traveling, and hiking are all elements that are combined with a deep passion to capture the beautiful scenery in the Ozarks. Every photo is a labor of love and enjoyment. Carr wants to accomplish two things with his photography, to glorify his Creator and to be a blessing to the viewer.

Susan Zallar

“I started taking pictures back in the 1970s with a little 35mm camera. I really enjoyed driving around Cleveland, OH, and getting black and white shots of the city and its surroundings. But life happens, and the camera was put away decades ago. A couple years ago I was getting frustrated with the quality of my cell phone photos and got my first “real” camera. Three years, three cameras, and multiple photography accouterments later, I now spend just about every free moment either taking pictures, editing pictures, or learning about taking and editing pictures. I like all kinds of photography, but I particularly enjoy taking pictures of plants and insects, macro photography, and pet portraiture.”

WPCA will host a Meet the Artists event on Saturday, April 22, from 2-4 p.m., in the Gallery at the Center. All are invited to attend, meet the artists, and discuss the pieces.  The exhibit is co-sponsored by the West Plains Civic Center and West Plains Council on the Arts, with partial funding provided by Missouri Arts Council, a state agency.

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 artist Barbara Robinette’s works will be featured inside OzSBI’s first floor March 31 through the end of June 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, “Barbara’s watercolors are loose, colorful, and nostalgic; reminding one of times gone by.”

About the artist:

Though she minored in art, Barbara Robinette dropped out of college to go to work and learn on her own. She is a member of West Plains Ventures in Art group and is self-taught in the art of watercolor.  Robinette also is a free verse poet, leaning today towards haiga art, which combines images with haiku. Daily Haiga has posted online five of her haiga, and Quill and Parchment poetry journal has featured some of her art online. Highland Park Poetry Publications has published one of her haiga in their book, The Majesty of Trees.  The Haiku Foundation has scheduled some of her haiga art to be posted online in April 2023.

Remembering that one of her professors said that a painting should be “pleasing to the eye,” she enjoys playing with paint and water to see what might develop.

A Meet-the-Artist event will be held on Thursday, April 27, 2-4 p.m. in OzSBI’s lobby at 408 Washington Ave. in West Plains. The public is invited to attend to meet Robinette 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.

Robinette artwork – “Singing at the Met”

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.