Register at www.ozsbi.com/events or call 417-256-9724.
From organizers: On April 2nd, in honor of Autism Awareness Day, we’re planning to illuminate our campus with blue lights. We’re encouraging the community to wear blue that day to show their support. Additionally, we’re inviting everyong to participate in a meaningful gesture by filling out an Autism Awareness Sign, expressing why you support Autism Awareness. We’d greatly appreciate it if you could snap a photo with the sign and post it on your page on April 2nd and tag us ASCEND at Missouri State University-West Plains. This simple act will not only amplify our message but also bring joy to the autistic community.
Call the West Plains Civic Center Box Office, 417-256-8087, or order online at ticketmaster.com. Ticket prices start at $29 plus fees.
38 Special concert event to kick off Eclipse West Plains: Party in the Path!
Legendary southern rock, powerhouse band 38 Special will be in concert at the West Plains Civic Center Friday, April 5. Joining the group will be acclaimed regional favorites, The Ozark Mountain Daredevils. Doors open at 6 p.m., concert begins at 7 p.m.
After more than four decades, multiple Gold and Platinum albums and a touring schedule that still includes over 100 cities every year, 38 Special continues to entertain and amaze audiences with their powerful performances. Since 1976, the band has released more than 15 albums and toured extensively, bringing their signature brand of ‘muscle and melody’ to fans worldwide. With sales in excess of 20 million, most associate the band with their arena-rock pop smashes, “Hold On Loosely,” “Rockin’ Into the Night,” “Caught Up in You,” “Fantasy Girl,” “If I’d Been the One,” “Back Where You Belong,” “Chain Lightnin’,” “Second Chance” and more. Their timeless hits remain a staple on Classic Rock outlets.
The Ozark Mountain Daredevils, based in Springfield, Mo., have recently celebrated their 50th anniversary. Their songs include the chart-topping single “Jackie Blue,” along with “If You Wanna Get To Heaven,” “Standing On The Rock,” “Country Girl,” “You Made It Right” and many others. Their sound is a genre-defying blend of rock and country-rock along with other influences. They infuse their music with harmonies, a variety of instruments and a playful approach to performing such songs as “Chicken Train” and “Time Warp.”
The concert will be the kick-off event for the four-day “Eclipse West Plains: Party in the Path” to celebrate the good fortune of West Plains having approximately three minutes of ‘totality,’ when the sun will be totally eclipsed from view by the moon, on April 8. There will be a variety of other events throughout the weekend with fun for all ages.
For more information about the concert, please contact the West Plains Civic Center Box Office, 110 St. Louis Street, West Plains, call 417-256-8087 or visit 38special.com and theozarkmountaindaredevils.com. For details about the Total Solar Eclipse and associated festivities, visit explorewestplains.com/tse/ or “Eclipse West Plains” on Facebook.
Tickets here.
Save the Date: April 7th, 2024! Join us for the ultimate celebration. Prepare for epic moments at our Balloon Glow in collaboration with the Eclipse West Plains: Party in the Path 4-day festival! Live performances from Bands Fender Bender & Ha Ha Tonka, kids zone, food trucks, vendors, fireworks and so much more!
Join us in making a difference! 🌟 Reserve your tickets now for the Balloon Glow and be part of a cause that truly matters. Your support can change lives. Act with purpose, purchase your ticket today!
Eclipse West Plains: Party in the Path 4-day festival Information: explorewestplains.com/tse/
Event Schedule:
Gates open at 4:00 p.m.
Fender Bender 5:30 p.m.
Ha Ha Tonka 7:00 p.m.
Balloon Glow 7:30 p.m.
Fireworks 8:30 p.m.
Free to the public for viewing during hours that civic center is open, typically 6 a.m.-7:30 p.m.
From organizers:
West Plains Council on the Arts (WPCA) will host an exhibition of works by area artists in the Gallery at the Center, West Plains Civic Center from March 30 through May 4, 2024. The Gallery, on the mezzanine, is open to the public during regular Civic Center hours.
“This is a beautiful, diverse collection of artwork created representing an eclipse, beautiful night skies, and other skyward representations,” organizers say.
Featured artists’ statements:
Robert Anderson – West Plains native Robert Anderson used his travel as a Forest Pathologist to capture the culture and landscape of many areas of the world. Now retired, he focuses on the Ozarks – landscapes, buildings, people, animals, and whatever presents itself for a picture.
Marc Brannan – For the Sky High exhibition, I have selected three prints that exemplify the joy and beauty that I try to bring out when I am taking evening landscape photography. Something that I feel can be seen in a lot of my photographs is how the evening or night sky can bring out a whole different light to be shown on the landscapes that are all around us. The titles that I will be showing include “A Fire in the Evening Sky”, “Day or Night?”, and “Like a Rainbow Tonight.”
Terri Combs – Art is the way I express my creativity and imagination through experimentation, exploration, and playful use of materials. These pieces were chosen to invite viewers to explore and examine the skies and solar system of the mind. My goal is to inspire viewers to create a story or message through personal perspective.
Lee Copen – The title of my painting is “Morning Glory.” It is a large oil painting of an amazing sunrise. I find that the sky is an endless source of inspiration. My goal is to paint fleeting moments of beauty in nature and share that beauty with others.
Becky Earls – This abstract Oil pastel piece is entitled “Rocky Mountain Sun.” It was inspired by deep reflection and study of the solar system and tectonic plates that bring forth land formations. I’ve had a deep interest in earth science geography since childhood. It’s a very free-spirited form, yet it’s an expressive piece that is beautiful.
The title of my Mixed Media piece is “Sol Alegre.” It is a whimsical view of the sun before an eclipse. Our sun in all its glory has been celebrated by cultures throughout the history of mankind. This piece was a result from studying various cultures, views, and legends concerning the sun around the world. “Sol Alegre” has a tribal, nostalgic, boho feel and will bless any viewer with feelings of joy and warmth. I love to study various artworks and cultures.
Nicholas Hackworth – I’ve captured all my photos in and around West Plains and the Ozarks. Having grown up and still living here, I’m fascinated by the beauty and charm of the region. The Ozarks are an incredible subject for photography, and they always inspire me to capture their wanderlust.
Janey Hale – The title of my collage is “Newsworthy” which refers to both the actual event and the natural phenomenon that should direct us to the wonders of the world God created. My art usually focuses on trying to capture the natural world through landscape painting. My goal is to try and tell a story that will resonate with the viewer.
Terry Hampton – “Turner Mill” is a collage made using images from the West Plains visitors guide. The mill wheel shown in the piece stands 25-foot tall in a secluded and shaded spring in Oregon County, Missouri. But here, I’ve removed it from its setting and made it the center of attention, thinking of the total solar eclipse, when the sun is not as we usually see it, and it’s the focus of all our attention.
“The Portal” is a piece just for fun. I’ve imagined a sky where something unusual has happened, where another dimension has intersected with ours. Ancient peoples were frightened of total solar eclipses because they were so rare, unexpected, and unexplainable. Even though we understand eclipses today, they are nonetheless a bit unsettling.
Rosemary Landers – These photos were taken at the last total solar eclipse in Missouri on August 21, 2017. Our family traveled to Hermann MO to experience this special event together. Our daughter Christina (Landers) Thompson lives in Atlanta GA with her family. She designed our “event” shirts! Her son Ethan was 9 months old in 2017. He is 7 years old now. Not many children can claim that they have witnessed 2 total solar eclipses at that age!
Donna Lay – The title of my Mixed Media piece is “Inexorable.” This abstract multilayered environmental painting portrays the eclipse as viewed from the space station which orbits our planet. The celestial movement of the earth around our sun, accompanied by our moon is inexorable, unstoppable, and relentless. It is majestic and full of grandeur and reminds us of the wonder of our universe.
Michael McClure – There is a world around us that we see, and there is a world within us which we feel. My work involves exploring where those two places meet. Some days my mood leans more towards simply appreciating the beauty I see all around me, and some days I need to express my emotions via color and light. Of course, moods change fairly quickly, which is why I prefer to finish a painting in the same session I started it, whether in the studio or outdoors en plein air. I find that working this way encourages a spontaneity that is guided by my intuition. I hope you will experience joy when you view my work, just as I experienced joy while creating it.
Diane Pence – I have always been drawn to the beauty of clouds and the night sky. Attempting to capture a moment in time, as a photo or a painting, is exciting to me.
Rhonda Richter – Painting “Evening on the Wabash” required navigating rapidly changing light. Every sunset is unique, difficult to depict, and impossible to revisit. Likewise, the drama of the eclipse will be quickly changing moments which will bring a distinct visual awareness of the immensity of creation.
Barbara Robinette – In my art, I am trying to show a moment of life and the feelings that might go with it. My aim is to “paint the poem” using images rather than words. Hopefully, the viewer can see and feel something ethereal, something out of this world, in each of my paintings: “Creation” seems of movement, like how the earth began with the sun shining warmth and life-giving growth to the rocks, plants and hills, including the waterfall. “Idea” shows a burst of energy and creativity when just thinking about something new. It might be like how God felt before making this earth long ago. “Sun” is an abstract of the beauty of a sun on blue sky, with a few clouds, and one weed welcomes the new day looking upward with open branches.
Gary Sanders – Astrophotography – This is the greatest way to give people appreciation for the dark sky and see the stars in a way they’ve never seen them before.
Kathy Schloss – Kathy Schloss’ oil pastel with colored pencil painting titled “Tranquil End” was chosen for the calming representation of our universe besides showing a one-point perspective. Her acrylic abstract, titled “Mystical Freedom” represents an otherworldly scene that relates to this special event and affords each viewer the freedom to explore their own interpretation. Kathy celebrates her love of nature through her paintings.
Cindy Temple – “Party in the Dark” This painting is all about fun, the chaos that might be happening in the dark, and the diversity of people coming to witness a total eclipse!
Mark Wallen – In my work, I love landscapes and am usually happy with my skies if nothing else. Eclipse and more fell into the portion of a painting I enjoy most. This is why I guess I like the Russian artist “Levitan” and The Hudson River Valley art Group. Both painted intense skies. The “ANNULAR ECLIPSE” is a work that fits the events showing, though not a total eclipse. The “AURORA BOREALIS” while not tied to the eclipse is an effect due to increased solar activity that shows up at Night.
Dolores Winkler – The world above us – The movement of Alcohol Inks and in bold Color! My dream is to live a life centered in creativity. I want to make amazing art, being around other artists, and to take the time to look around and really see this glorious world. Mostly I want to be able to make the kind of art that I love and that speaks to someone.
WPCA will host a Meet the Artists event on Sunday, April 7, from 2-4 p.m., in the Gallery at the Center, as part of the “Party in the Path” Eclipse Celebration. 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 West Plains Public Library (WPPL) will partner to bring quarterly art displays to the library. Photography from local artist Marc Brannan will be featured through the end of June 2024. Visitors may view the display at the library during their open hours, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday-Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday.
WPPL Director Greg Carter shares, “Here at the library, our vision is that we are a space where all come to learn, create, discover, and connect. There is no better way to accomplish that vision than displaying local pieces of art for the community to peruse and appreciate. We are always proud to partner with the Council on the Arts to bring the beauty of art to our patrons.”
Marc Brannan grew up on his family farm near Willow Springs, MO., and currently lives and works in West Plains. 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.
Brannan says, “I have always enjoyed the stories of my mom attending one-room schools when she was a kid, and I think that is a big reason I seek them out to photograph today. There are fewer of them around every year, as a lot of them slowly fall into disrepair and collapse unless they have been cared for or restored over the years. I love incorporating them into my landscape photography as much as I can, especially as a way of preserving their history. I have started to reach out with my photography and have started trying to capture more shots in other areas, as well as different states, both in nature and landscape scenes. Lately I have focused more on reaching out to new parts of Missouri, and trying to show the viewer that there is so much more around us than we are used to seeing locally. The pictures that I have selected for this exhibition show a range of my photos that depict the history and outdoor settings that our area, as well as other parts of the country, are known for—whether historic or in the natural beauty that we might otherwise only see if you were to travel there and see for yourself.”
A Meet-the-Artists event will be held on Tuesday, April 23, 2024, 3:00-4:30 PM, hosted by the library, 750 W. Broadway, in West Plains. The public is invited to attend, meet the artist, 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 Greg Carter greg.carter@westplains.gov at the library or WPCA Coordinator Audrey Scott at Audrey.scott@zizzers.org
Photo courtesy of Marc Brannan
Officials at Missouri State University-West Plains (MSU-WP) will host a grand opening celebration for the Ozarks Heritage Research Center (OHRC) at 6 p.m. April 2 at the Garnett Library, 304 W. Trish Knight St., in West Plains.
Years in the making, the OHRC houses an archive of materials related to the south-central and southeast Missouri Ozarks that can be used by researchers, regional history enthusiasts and students. The archive includes a variety of documents and visual resources that represent the history and cultural heritage of the region, including materials written by and about Missourians. It also includes oral history collections of Ozarkers telling their own stories, as well as audiovisual and musical pieces significant to the region.
“For many years, the Ozarks Heritage Research Center was only a dream of faculty members at Missouri State University-West Plains. This dream has finally become a reality and our hope is that it will continue to grow and influence not only our community, but the greater Ozarks and beyond,” said Rebekah McKinney, director of library services at the Garnett Library and a member of the OHRC advisory board.
“The impact of preserving these tangible objects and making them accessible to the public creates intangible human connections that might not be found elsewhere, and that is why we are proud to open the Ozarks Heritage Research Center,” she added.
Guest speakers at the event include MSU-WP Chancellor Dennis Lancaster, OHRC advisory board member and Professor of English Frank Priest, and local resident Chuck Kimberlin, whose mother, Irene, had several collections pertaining to Ozark history which have been donated by Chuck to the OHRC.
Also slated to speak is muralist Farley Lewis, Springfield, whose mural of a wagon crossing an Ozarks creek now hangs in the OHRC. The image was inspired by a glass negative of a wagon crossing Myatt Creek at the former Fruitville community near Koshkonong around the turn of the century. The glass negative was taken by Erker Brothers Optical Company in St. Louis and was part of Irene Kimberlin’s collections, McKinney said.
Visitors to the grand opening will be able to view the center’s entire collection that evening and enjoy refreshments.
For more information about the event, contact Rebekah McKinney at 417-255-7949 or RebekahMcKinney@MissouriState.edu.
Register at www.ozsbi.com/events or call 417-256-9724.
Call the West Plains Civic Center Box Office, 417-256-8087, or order online at ticketmaster.com. Ticket prices start at $29 plus fees.
38 Special concert event to kick off Eclipse West Plains: Party in the Path!
Legendary southern rock, powerhouse band 38 Special will be in concert at the West Plains Civic Center Friday, April 5. Joining the group will be acclaimed regional favorites, The Ozark Mountain Daredevils. Doors open at 6 p.m., concert begins at 7 p.m.
After more than four decades, multiple Gold and Platinum albums and a touring schedule that still includes over 100 cities every year, 38 Special continues to entertain and amaze audiences with their powerful performances. Since 1976, the band has released more than 15 albums and toured extensively, bringing their signature brand of ‘muscle and melody’ to fans worldwide. With sales in excess of 20 million, most associate the band with their arena-rock pop smashes, “Hold On Loosely,” “Rockin’ Into the Night,” “Caught Up in You,” “Fantasy Girl,” “If I’d Been the One,” “Back Where You Belong,” “Chain Lightnin’,” “Second Chance” and more. Their timeless hits remain a staple on Classic Rock outlets.
The Ozark Mountain Daredevils, based in Springfield, Mo., have recently celebrated their 50th anniversary. Their songs include the chart-topping single “Jackie Blue,” along with “If You Wanna Get To Heaven,” “Standing On The Rock,” “Country Girl,” “You Made It Right” and many others. Their sound is a genre-defying blend of rock and country-rock along with other influences. They infuse their music with harmonies, a variety of instruments and a playful approach to performing such songs as “Chicken Train” and “Time Warp.”
The concert will be the kick-off event for the four-day “Eclipse West Plains: Party in the Path” to celebrate the good fortune of West Plains having approximately three minutes of ‘totality,’ when the sun will be totally eclipsed from view by the moon, on April 8. There will be a variety of other events throughout the weekend with fun for all ages.
For more information about the concert, please contact the West Plains Civic Center Box Office, 110 St. Louis Street, West Plains, call 417-256-8087 or visit 38special.com and theozarkmountaindaredevils.com. For details about the Total Solar Eclipse and associated festivities, visit explorewestplains.com/tse/ or “Eclipse West Plains” on Facebook.
Tickets here.
Save the Date: April 7th, 2024! Join us for the ultimate celebration. Prepare for epic moments at our Balloon Glow in collaboration with the Eclipse West Plains: Party in the Path 4-day festival! Live performances from Bands Fender Bender & Ha Ha Tonka, kids zone, food trucks, vendors, fireworks and so much more!
Join us in making a difference! 🌟 Reserve your tickets now for the Balloon Glow and be part of a cause that truly matters. Your support can change lives. Act with purpose, purchase your ticket today!
Eclipse West Plains: Party in the Path 4-day festival Information: explorewestplains.com/tse/
Event Schedule:
Gates open at 4:00 p.m.
Fender Bender 5:30 p.m.
Ha Ha Tonka 7:00 p.m.
Balloon Glow 7:30 p.m.
Fireworks 8:30 p.m.
Free to the public for viewing during hours that civic center is open, typically 6 a.m.-7:30 p.m.
From organizers:
West Plains Council on the Arts (WPCA) will host an exhibition of works by area artists in the Gallery at the Center, West Plains Civic Center from March 30 through May 4, 2024. The Gallery, on the mezzanine, is open to the public during regular Civic Center hours.
“This is a beautiful, diverse collection of artwork created representing an eclipse, beautiful night skies, and other skyward representations,” organizers say.
Featured artists’ statements:
Robert Anderson – West Plains native Robert Anderson used his travel as a Forest Pathologist to capture the culture and landscape of many areas of the world. Now retired, he focuses on the Ozarks – landscapes, buildings, people, animals, and whatever presents itself for a picture.
Marc Brannan – For the Sky High exhibition, I have selected three prints that exemplify the joy and beauty that I try to bring out when I am taking evening landscape photography. Something that I feel can be seen in a lot of my photographs is how the evening or night sky can bring out a whole different light to be shown on the landscapes that are all around us. The titles that I will be showing include “A Fire in the Evening Sky”, “Day or Night?”, and “Like a Rainbow Tonight.”
Terri Combs – Art is the way I express my creativity and imagination through experimentation, exploration, and playful use of materials. These pieces were chosen to invite viewers to explore and examine the skies and solar system of the mind. My goal is to inspire viewers to create a story or message through personal perspective.
Lee Copen – The title of my painting is “Morning Glory.” It is a large oil painting of an amazing sunrise. I find that the sky is an endless source of inspiration. My goal is to paint fleeting moments of beauty in nature and share that beauty with others.
Becky Earls – This abstract Oil pastel piece is entitled “Rocky Mountain Sun.” It was inspired by deep reflection and study of the solar system and tectonic plates that bring forth land formations. I’ve had a deep interest in earth science geography since childhood. It’s a very free-spirited form, yet it’s an expressive piece that is beautiful.
The title of my Mixed Media piece is “Sol Alegre.” It is a whimsical view of the sun before an eclipse. Our sun in all its glory has been celebrated by cultures throughout the history of mankind. This piece was a result from studying various cultures, views, and legends concerning the sun around the world. “Sol Alegre” has a tribal, nostalgic, boho feel and will bless any viewer with feelings of joy and warmth. I love to study various artworks and cultures.
Nicholas Hackworth – I’ve captured all my photos in and around West Plains and the Ozarks. Having grown up and still living here, I’m fascinated by the beauty and charm of the region. The Ozarks are an incredible subject for photography, and they always inspire me to capture their wanderlust.
Janey Hale – The title of my collage is “Newsworthy” which refers to both the actual event and the natural phenomenon that should direct us to the wonders of the world God created. My art usually focuses on trying to capture the natural world through landscape painting. My goal is to try and tell a story that will resonate with the viewer.
Terry Hampton – “Turner Mill” is a collage made using images from the West Plains visitors guide. The mill wheel shown in the piece stands 25-foot tall in a secluded and shaded spring in Oregon County, Missouri. But here, I’ve removed it from its setting and made it the center of attention, thinking of the total solar eclipse, when the sun is not as we usually see it, and it’s the focus of all our attention.
“The Portal” is a piece just for fun. I’ve imagined a sky where something unusual has happened, where another dimension has intersected with ours. Ancient peoples were frightened of total solar eclipses because they were so rare, unexpected, and unexplainable. Even though we understand eclipses today, they are nonetheless a bit unsettling.
Rosemary Landers – These photos were taken at the last total solar eclipse in Missouri on August 21, 2017. Our family traveled to Hermann MO to experience this special event together. Our daughter Christina (Landers) Thompson lives in Atlanta GA with her family. She designed our “event” shirts! Her son Ethan was 9 months old in 2017. He is 7 years old now. Not many children can claim that they have witnessed 2 total solar eclipses at that age!
Donna Lay – The title of my Mixed Media piece is “Inexorable.” This abstract multilayered environmental painting portrays the eclipse as viewed from the space station which orbits our planet. The celestial movement of the earth around our sun, accompanied by our moon is inexorable, unstoppable, and relentless. It is majestic and full of grandeur and reminds us of the wonder of our universe.
Michael McClure – There is a world around us that we see, and there is a world within us which we feel. My work involves exploring where those two places meet. Some days my mood leans more towards simply appreciating the beauty I see all around me, and some days I need to express my emotions via color and light. Of course, moods change fairly quickly, which is why I prefer to finish a painting in the same session I started it, whether in the studio or outdoors en plein air. I find that working this way encourages a spontaneity that is guided by my intuition. I hope you will experience joy when you view my work, just as I experienced joy while creating it.
Diane Pence – I have always been drawn to the beauty of clouds and the night sky. Attempting to capture a moment in time, as a photo or a painting, is exciting to me.
Rhonda Richter – Painting “Evening on the Wabash” required navigating rapidly changing light. Every sunset is unique, difficult to depict, and impossible to revisit. Likewise, the drama of the eclipse will be quickly changing moments which will bring a distinct visual awareness of the immensity of creation.
Barbara Robinette – In my art, I am trying to show a moment of life and the feelings that might go with it. My aim is to “paint the poem” using images rather than words. Hopefully, the viewer can see and feel something ethereal, something out of this world, in each of my paintings: “Creation” seems of movement, like how the earth began with the sun shining warmth and life-giving growth to the rocks, plants and hills, including the waterfall. “Idea” shows a burst of energy and creativity when just thinking about something new. It might be like how God felt before making this earth long ago. “Sun” is an abstract of the beauty of a sun on blue sky, with a few clouds, and one weed welcomes the new day looking upward with open branches.
Gary Sanders – Astrophotography – This is the greatest way to give people appreciation for the dark sky and see the stars in a way they’ve never seen them before.
Kathy Schloss – Kathy Schloss’ oil pastel with colored pencil painting titled “Tranquil End” was chosen for the calming representation of our universe besides showing a one-point perspective. Her acrylic abstract, titled “Mystical Freedom” represents an otherworldly scene that relates to this special event and affords each viewer the freedom to explore their own interpretation. Kathy celebrates her love of nature through her paintings.
Cindy Temple – “Party in the Dark” This painting is all about fun, the chaos that might be happening in the dark, and the diversity of people coming to witness a total eclipse!
Mark Wallen – In my work, I love landscapes and am usually happy with my skies if nothing else. Eclipse and more fell into the portion of a painting I enjoy most. This is why I guess I like the Russian artist “Levitan” and The Hudson River Valley art Group. Both painted intense skies. The “ANNULAR ECLIPSE” is a work that fits the events showing, though not a total eclipse. The “AURORA BOREALIS” while not tied to the eclipse is an effect due to increased solar activity that shows up at Night.
Dolores Winkler – The world above us – The movement of Alcohol Inks and in bold Color! My dream is to live a life centered in creativity. I want to make amazing art, being around other artists, and to take the time to look around and really see this glorious world. Mostly I want to be able to make the kind of art that I love and that speaks to someone.
WPCA will host a Meet the Artists event on Sunday, April 7, from 2-4 p.m., in the Gallery at the Center, as part of the “Party in the Path” Eclipse Celebration. 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 West Plains Public Library (WPPL) will partner to bring quarterly art displays to the library. Photography from local artist Marc Brannan will be featured through the end of June 2024. Visitors may view the display at the library during their open hours, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday-Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday.
WPPL Director Greg Carter shares, “Here at the library, our vision is that we are a space where all come to learn, create, discover, and connect. There is no better way to accomplish that vision than displaying local pieces of art for the community to peruse and appreciate. We are always proud to partner with the Council on the Arts to bring the beauty of art to our patrons.”
Marc Brannan grew up on his family farm near Willow Springs, MO., and currently lives and works in West Plains. 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.
Brannan says, “I have always enjoyed the stories of my mom attending one-room schools when she was a kid, and I think that is a big reason I seek them out to photograph today. There are fewer of them around every year, as a lot of them slowly fall into disrepair and collapse unless they have been cared for or restored over the years. I love incorporating them into my landscape photography as much as I can, especially as a way of preserving their history. I have started to reach out with my photography and have started trying to capture more shots in other areas, as well as different states, both in nature and landscape scenes. Lately I have focused more on reaching out to new parts of Missouri, and trying to show the viewer that there is so much more around us than we are used to seeing locally. The pictures that I have selected for this exhibition show a range of my photos that depict the history and outdoor settings that our area, as well as other parts of the country, are known for—whether historic or in the natural beauty that we might otherwise only see if you were to travel there and see for yourself.”
A Meet-the-Artists event will be held on Tuesday, April 23, 2024, 3:00-4:30 PM, hosted by the library, 750 W. Broadway, in West Plains. The public is invited to attend, meet the artist, 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 Greg Carter greg.carter@westplains.gov at the library or WPCA Coordinator Audrey Scott at Audrey.scott@zizzers.org
Photo courtesy of Marc Brannan
Call the West Plains Civic Center Box Office, 417-256-8087, or order online at ticketmaster.com. Ticket prices start at $29 plus fees.
38 Special concert event to kick off Eclipse West Plains: Party in the Path!
Legendary southern rock, powerhouse band 38 Special will be in concert at the West Plains Civic Center Friday, April 5. Joining the group will be acclaimed regional favorites, The Ozark Mountain Daredevils. Doors open at 6 p.m., concert begins at 7 p.m.
After more than four decades, multiple Gold and Platinum albums and a touring schedule that still includes over 100 cities every year, 38 Special continues to entertain and amaze audiences with their powerful performances. Since 1976, the band has released more than 15 albums and toured extensively, bringing their signature brand of ‘muscle and melody’ to fans worldwide. With sales in excess of 20 million, most associate the band with their arena-rock pop smashes, “Hold On Loosely,” “Rockin’ Into the Night,” “Caught Up in You,” “Fantasy Girl,” “If I’d Been the One,” “Back Where You Belong,” “Chain Lightnin’,” “Second Chance” and more. Their timeless hits remain a staple on Classic Rock outlets.
The Ozark Mountain Daredevils, based in Springfield, Mo., have recently celebrated their 50th anniversary. Their songs include the chart-topping single “Jackie Blue,” along with “If You Wanna Get To Heaven,” “Standing On The Rock,” “Country Girl,” “You Made It Right” and many others. Their sound is a genre-defying blend of rock and country-rock along with other influences. They infuse their music with harmonies, a variety of instruments and a playful approach to performing such songs as “Chicken Train” and “Time Warp.”
The concert will be the kick-off event for the four-day “Eclipse West Plains: Party in the Path” to celebrate the good fortune of West Plains having approximately three minutes of ‘totality,’ when the sun will be totally eclipsed from view by the moon, on April 8. There will be a variety of other events throughout the weekend with fun for all ages.
For more information about the concert, please contact the West Plains Civic Center Box Office, 110 St. Louis Street, West Plains, call 417-256-8087 or visit 38special.com and theozarkmountaindaredevils.com. For details about the Total Solar Eclipse and associated festivities, visit explorewestplains.com/tse/ or “Eclipse West Plains” on Facebook.
Tickets here.
Save the Date: April 7th, 2024! Join us for the ultimate celebration. Prepare for epic moments at our Balloon Glow in collaboration with the Eclipse West Plains: Party in the Path 4-day festival! Live performances from Bands Fender Bender & Ha Ha Tonka, kids zone, food trucks, vendors, fireworks and so much more!
Join us in making a difference! 🌟 Reserve your tickets now for the Balloon Glow and be part of a cause that truly matters. Your support can change lives. Act with purpose, purchase your ticket today!
Eclipse West Plains: Party in the Path 4-day festival Information: explorewestplains.com/tse/
Event Schedule:
Gates open at 4:00 p.m.
Fender Bender 5:30 p.m.
Ha Ha Tonka 7:00 p.m.
Balloon Glow 7:30 p.m.
Fireworks 8:30 p.m.
Free to the public for viewing during hours that civic center is open, typically 6 a.m.-7:30 p.m.
From organizers:
West Plains Council on the Arts (WPCA) will host an exhibition of works by area artists in the Gallery at the Center, West Plains Civic Center from March 30 through May 4, 2024. The Gallery, on the mezzanine, is open to the public during regular Civic Center hours.
“This is a beautiful, diverse collection of artwork created representing an eclipse, beautiful night skies, and other skyward representations,” organizers say.
Featured artists’ statements:
Robert Anderson – West Plains native Robert Anderson used his travel as a Forest Pathologist to capture the culture and landscape of many areas of the world. Now retired, he focuses on the Ozarks – landscapes, buildings, people, animals, and whatever presents itself for a picture.
Marc Brannan – For the Sky High exhibition, I have selected three prints that exemplify the joy and beauty that I try to bring out when I am taking evening landscape photography. Something that I feel can be seen in a lot of my photographs is how the evening or night sky can bring out a whole different light to be shown on the landscapes that are all around us. The titles that I will be showing include “A Fire in the Evening Sky”, “Day or Night?”, and “Like a Rainbow Tonight.”
Terri Combs – Art is the way I express my creativity and imagination through experimentation, exploration, and playful use of materials. These pieces were chosen to invite viewers to explore and examine the skies and solar system of the mind. My goal is to inspire viewers to create a story or message through personal perspective.
Lee Copen – The title of my painting is “Morning Glory.” It is a large oil painting of an amazing sunrise. I find that the sky is an endless source of inspiration. My goal is to paint fleeting moments of beauty in nature and share that beauty with others.
Becky Earls – This abstract Oil pastel piece is entitled “Rocky Mountain Sun.” It was inspired by deep reflection and study of the solar system and tectonic plates that bring forth land formations. I’ve had a deep interest in earth science geography since childhood. It’s a very free-spirited form, yet it’s an expressive piece that is beautiful.
The title of my Mixed Media piece is “Sol Alegre.” It is a whimsical view of the sun before an eclipse. Our sun in all its glory has been celebrated by cultures throughout the history of mankind. This piece was a result from studying various cultures, views, and legends concerning the sun around the world. “Sol Alegre” has a tribal, nostalgic, boho feel and will bless any viewer with feelings of joy and warmth. I love to study various artworks and cultures.
Nicholas Hackworth – I’ve captured all my photos in and around West Plains and the Ozarks. Having grown up and still living here, I’m fascinated by the beauty and charm of the region. The Ozarks are an incredible subject for photography, and they always inspire me to capture their wanderlust.
Janey Hale – The title of my collage is “Newsworthy” which refers to both the actual event and the natural phenomenon that should direct us to the wonders of the world God created. My art usually focuses on trying to capture the natural world through landscape painting. My goal is to try and tell a story that will resonate with the viewer.
Terry Hampton – “Turner Mill” is a collage made using images from the West Plains visitors guide. The mill wheel shown in the piece stands 25-foot tall in a secluded and shaded spring in Oregon County, Missouri. But here, I’ve removed it from its setting and made it the center of attention, thinking of the total solar eclipse, when the sun is not as we usually see it, and it’s the focus of all our attention.
“The Portal” is a piece just for fun. I’ve imagined a sky where something unusual has happened, where another dimension has intersected with ours. Ancient peoples were frightened of total solar eclipses because they were so rare, unexpected, and unexplainable. Even though we understand eclipses today, they are nonetheless a bit unsettling.
Rosemary Landers – These photos were taken at the last total solar eclipse in Missouri on August 21, 2017. Our family traveled to Hermann MO to experience this special event together. Our daughter Christina (Landers) Thompson lives in Atlanta GA with her family. She designed our “event” shirts! Her son Ethan was 9 months old in 2017. He is 7 years old now. Not many children can claim that they have witnessed 2 total solar eclipses at that age!
Donna Lay – The title of my Mixed Media piece is “Inexorable.” This abstract multilayered environmental painting portrays the eclipse as viewed from the space station which orbits our planet. The celestial movement of the earth around our sun, accompanied by our moon is inexorable, unstoppable, and relentless. It is majestic and full of grandeur and reminds us of the wonder of our universe.
Michael McClure – There is a world around us that we see, and there is a world within us which we feel. My work involves exploring where those two places meet. Some days my mood leans more towards simply appreciating the beauty I see all around me, and some days I need to express my emotions via color and light. Of course, moods change fairly quickly, which is why I prefer to finish a painting in the same session I started it, whether in the studio or outdoors en plein air. I find that working this way encourages a spontaneity that is guided by my intuition. I hope you will experience joy when you view my work, just as I experienced joy while creating it.
Diane Pence – I have always been drawn to the beauty of clouds and the night sky. Attempting to capture a moment in time, as a photo or a painting, is exciting to me.
Rhonda Richter – Painting “Evening on the Wabash” required navigating rapidly changing light. Every sunset is unique, difficult to depict, and impossible to revisit. Likewise, the drama of the eclipse will be quickly changing moments which will bring a distinct visual awareness of the immensity of creation.
Barbara Robinette – In my art, I am trying to show a moment of life and the feelings that might go with it. My aim is to “paint the poem” using images rather than words. Hopefully, the viewer can see and feel something ethereal, something out of this world, in each of my paintings: “Creation” seems of movement, like how the earth began with the sun shining warmth and life-giving growth to the rocks, plants and hills, including the waterfall. “Idea” shows a burst of energy and creativity when just thinking about something new. It might be like how God felt before making this earth long ago. “Sun” is an abstract of the beauty of a sun on blue sky, with a few clouds, and one weed welcomes the new day looking upward with open branches.
Gary Sanders – Astrophotography – This is the greatest way to give people appreciation for the dark sky and see the stars in a way they’ve never seen them before.
Kathy Schloss – Kathy Schloss’ oil pastel with colored pencil painting titled “Tranquil End” was chosen for the calming representation of our universe besides showing a one-point perspective. Her acrylic abstract, titled “Mystical Freedom” represents an otherworldly scene that relates to this special event and affords each viewer the freedom to explore their own interpretation. Kathy celebrates her love of nature through her paintings.
Cindy Temple – “Party in the Dark” This painting is all about fun, the chaos that might be happening in the dark, and the diversity of people coming to witness a total eclipse!
Mark Wallen – In my work, I love landscapes and am usually happy with my skies if nothing else. Eclipse and more fell into the portion of a painting I enjoy most. This is why I guess I like the Russian artist “Levitan” and The Hudson River Valley art Group. Both painted intense skies. The “ANNULAR ECLIPSE” is a work that fits the events showing, though not a total eclipse. The “AURORA BOREALIS” while not tied to the eclipse is an effect due to increased solar activity that shows up at Night.
Dolores Winkler – The world above us – The movement of Alcohol Inks and in bold Color! My dream is to live a life centered in creativity. I want to make amazing art, being around other artists, and to take the time to look around and really see this glorious world. Mostly I want to be able to make the kind of art that I love and that speaks to someone.
WPCA will host a Meet the Artists event on Sunday, April 7, from 2-4 p.m., in the Gallery at the Center, as part of the “Party in the Path” Eclipse Celebration. 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 West Plains Public Library (WPPL) will partner to bring quarterly art displays to the library. Photography from local artist Marc Brannan will be featured through the end of June 2024. Visitors may view the display at the library during their open hours, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday-Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday.
WPPL Director Greg Carter shares, “Here at the library, our vision is that we are a space where all come to learn, create, discover, and connect. There is no better way to accomplish that vision than displaying local pieces of art for the community to peruse and appreciate. We are always proud to partner with the Council on the Arts to bring the beauty of art to our patrons.”
Marc Brannan grew up on his family farm near Willow Springs, MO., and currently lives and works in West Plains. 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.
Brannan says, “I have always enjoyed the stories of my mom attending one-room schools when she was a kid, and I think that is a big reason I seek them out to photograph today. There are fewer of them around every year, as a lot of them slowly fall into disrepair and collapse unless they have been cared for or restored over the years. I love incorporating them into my landscape photography as much as I can, especially as a way of preserving their history. I have started to reach out with my photography and have started trying to capture more shots in other areas, as well as different states, both in nature and landscape scenes. Lately I have focused more on reaching out to new parts of Missouri, and trying to show the viewer that there is so much more around us than we are used to seeing locally. The pictures that I have selected for this exhibition show a range of my photos that depict the history and outdoor settings that our area, as well as other parts of the country, are known for—whether historic or in the natural beauty that we might otherwise only see if you were to travel there and see for yourself.”
A Meet-the-Artists event will be held on Tuesday, April 23, 2024, 3:00-4:30 PM, hosted by the library, 750 W. Broadway, in West Plains. The public is invited to attend, meet the artist, 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 Greg Carter greg.carter@westplains.gov at the library or WPCA Coordinator Audrey Scott at Audrey.scott@zizzers.org
Photo courtesy of Marc Brannan
There is just so much going on in West Plains over the course of April 5-8 that we can’t list everything here!! Please visit the Total Solar Eclipse page of explorewestplains.com for details. You can click on links from there to find out details about events. Join us for this very special and historic astronomical event!
You can also visit in person at the Ozark Heritage Welcome Center, 2999 Porter Wagoner Blvd., Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., for ISO-certified solar eclipse viewing glasses and other eclipse merchandise. Like and Follow Eclipse West Plains for updates and further information.
The glasses are also available at Country At Heart and the optometrist offices in West Plains.
Tickets here.
Save the Date: April 7th, 2024! Join us for the ultimate celebration. Prepare for epic moments at our Balloon Glow in collaboration with the Eclipse West Plains: Party in the Path 4-day festival! Live performances from Bands Fender Bender & Ha Ha Tonka, kids zone, food trucks, vendors, fireworks and so much more!
Join us in making a difference! 🌟 Reserve your tickets now for the Balloon Glow and be part of a cause that truly matters. Your support can change lives. Act with purpose, purchase your ticket today!
Eclipse West Plains: Party in the Path 4-day festival Information: explorewestplains.com/tse/
Event Schedule:
Gates open at 4:00 p.m.
Fender Bender 5:30 p.m.
Ha Ha Tonka 7:00 p.m.
Balloon Glow 7:30 p.m.
Fireworks 8:30 p.m.
The West Plains Council on the Arts (WPCA) and West Plains Public Library (WPPL) will partner to bring quarterly art displays to the library. Photography from local artist Marc Brannan will be featured through the end of June 2024. Visitors may view the display at the library during their open hours, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday-Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday.
WPPL Director Greg Carter shares, “Here at the library, our vision is that we are a space where all come to learn, create, discover, and connect. There is no better way to accomplish that vision than displaying local pieces of art for the community to peruse and appreciate. We are always proud to partner with the Council on the Arts to bring the beauty of art to our patrons.”
Marc Brannan grew up on his family farm near Willow Springs, MO., and currently lives and works in West Plains. 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.
Brannan says, “I have always enjoyed the stories of my mom attending one-room schools when she was a kid, and I think that is a big reason I seek them out to photograph today. There are fewer of them around every year, as a lot of them slowly fall into disrepair and collapse unless they have been cared for or restored over the years. I love incorporating them into my landscape photography as much as I can, especially as a way of preserving their history. I have started to reach out with my photography and have started trying to capture more shots in other areas, as well as different states, both in nature and landscape scenes. Lately I have focused more on reaching out to new parts of Missouri, and trying to show the viewer that there is so much more around us than we are used to seeing locally. The pictures that I have selected for this exhibition show a range of my photos that depict the history and outdoor settings that our area, as well as other parts of the country, are known for—whether historic or in the natural beauty that we might otherwise only see if you were to travel there and see for yourself.”
A Meet-the-Artists event will be held on Tuesday, April 23, 2024, 3:00-4:30 PM, hosted by the library, 750 W. Broadway, in West Plains. The public is invited to attend, meet the artist, 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 Greg Carter greg.carter@westplains.gov at the library or WPCA Coordinator Audrey Scott at Audrey.scott@zizzers.org
Photo courtesy of Marc Brannan
From organizers:
We have made a decision to modify the class line up for the 7th annual Show Me RC 100!
-Midgets have been added to the program. This will follow the rules that have been adopted from Dustin Malicoat and will be posted in rules section. It will remain open tire for this event, but will likely be a spec tire in the future.
-360 Sprint will replace non-wing sprint for this race. 13.5 motor in blinky. Open tire. Like Crate Late Model, this is intended as a skill level class (beginner to intermediate). This is not for the driver that normally runs “open” classes. If running open sprint or open late model, you are not eligible for crate late or 360 sprint.
-B Mod has also been added. Same as the last previous shows, it will be open motor and tire. Stock chassis and follow Outlaw Lane -B Mod rules.
Tire rule will be the same as previous events. All classes are open motor except the following: Street Stock and crate late model. They will be on DE regulator, mini G 60, or proline Hoosiers.
Pit reservations will be announced in March.
We are looking forward to another fun event! If you have questions, please reach out to me.
38 Special concert event to kick off Eclipse West Plains: Party in the Path!
Legendary southern rock, powerhouse band 38 Special will be in concert at the West Plains Civic Center Friday, April 5. Joining the group will be acclaimed regional favorites, The Ozark Mountain Daredevils. Doors open at 6 p.m., concert begins at 7 p.m.
Tickets now on sale at the Civic Center Box Office, 417-256-8087, and ticketmaster.com. Ticket prices start at $29 plus fees.
After more than four decades, multiple Gold and Platinum albums and a touring schedule that still includes over 100 cities every year, 38 Special continues to entertain and amaze audiences with their powerful performances. Since 1976, the band has released more than 15 albums and toured extensively, bringing their signature brand of ‘muscle and melody’ to fans worldwide. With sales in excess of 20 million, most associate the band with their arena-rock pop smashes, “Hold On Loosely,” “Rockin’ Into the Night,” “Caught Up in You,” “Fantasy Girl,” “If I’d Been the One,” “Back Where You Belong,” “Chain Lightnin’,” “Second Chance” and more. Their timeless hits remain a staple on Classic Rock outlets.
The Ozark Mountain Daredevils, based in Springfield, Mo., have recently celebrated their 50th anniversary. Their songs include the chart-topping single “Jackie Blue,” along with “If You Wanna Get To Heaven,” “Standing On The Rock,” “Country Girl,” “You Made It Right” and many others. Their sound is a genre-defying blend of rock and country-rock along with other influences. They infuse their music with harmonies, a variety of instruments and a playful approach to performing such songs as “Chicken Train” and “Time Warp.”
The concert will be the kick-off event for the four-day “Eclipse West Plains: Party in the Path” to celebrate the good fortune of West Plains having approximately three minutes of ‘totality,’ when the sun will be totally eclipsed from view by the moon, on April 8. There will be a variety of other events throughout the weekend with fun for all ages.
For more information about the concert, please contact the West Plains Civic Center Box Office, 110 St. Louis Street, West Plains, call 417-256-8087 or visit 38special.com and theozarkmountaindaredevils.com. For details about the Total Solar Eclipse and associated festivities, visit explorewestplains.com/tse/ or “Eclipse West Plains” on Facebook.
There is just so much going on in West Plains over the course of April 5-8 that we can’t list everything here!! Please visit the Total Solar Eclipse page of explorewestplains.com for details. You can click on links from there to find out details about events. Join us for this very special and historic astronomical event!
You can also visit in person at the Ozark Heritage Welcome Center, 2999 Porter Wagoner Blvd., Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., for ISO-certified solar eclipse viewing glasses and other eclipse merchandise. Like and Follow Eclipse West Plains for updates and further information.
The glasses are also available at Country At Heart and the optometrist offices in West Plains.
Tickets here.
Save the Date: April 7th, 2024! Join us for the ultimate celebration. Prepare for epic moments at our Balloon Glow in collaboration with the Eclipse West Plains: Party in the Path 4-day festival! Live performances from Bands Fender Bender & Ha Ha Tonka, kids zone, food trucks, vendors, fireworks and so much more!
Join us in making a difference! 🌟 Reserve your tickets now for the Balloon Glow and be part of a cause that truly matters. Your support can change lives. Act with purpose, purchase your ticket today!
Eclipse West Plains: Party in the Path 4-day festival Information: explorewestplains.com/tse/
Event Schedule:
Gates open at 4:00 p.m.
Fender Bender 5:30 p.m.
Ha Ha Tonka 7:00 p.m.
Balloon Glow 7:30 p.m.
Fireworks 8:30 p.m.
Free to the public for viewing during hours that civic center is open, typically 6 a.m.-7:30 p.m.
From organizers:
West Plains Council on the Arts (WPCA) will host an exhibition of works by area artists in the Gallery at the Center, West Plains Civic Center from March 30 through May 4, 2024. The Gallery, on the mezzanine, is open to the public during regular Civic Center hours.
“This is a beautiful, diverse collection of artwork created representing an eclipse, beautiful night skies, and other skyward representations,” organizers say.
Featured artists’ statements:
Robert Anderson – West Plains native Robert Anderson used his travel as a Forest Pathologist to capture the culture and landscape of many areas of the world. Now retired, he focuses on the Ozarks – landscapes, buildings, people, animals, and whatever presents itself for a picture.
Marc Brannan – For the Sky High exhibition, I have selected three prints that exemplify the joy and beauty that I try to bring out when I am taking evening landscape photography. Something that I feel can be seen in a lot of my photographs is how the evening or night sky can bring out a whole different light to be shown on the landscapes that are all around us. The titles that I will be showing include “A Fire in the Evening Sky”, “Day or Night?”, and “Like a Rainbow Tonight.”
Terri Combs – Art is the way I express my creativity and imagination through experimentation, exploration, and playful use of materials. These pieces were chosen to invite viewers to explore and examine the skies and solar system of the mind. My goal is to inspire viewers to create a story or message through personal perspective.
Lee Copen – The title of my painting is “Morning Glory.” It is a large oil painting of an amazing sunrise. I find that the sky is an endless source of inspiration. My goal is to paint fleeting moments of beauty in nature and share that beauty with others.
Becky Earls – This abstract Oil pastel piece is entitled “Rocky Mountain Sun.” It was inspired by deep reflection and study of the solar system and tectonic plates that bring forth land formations. I’ve had a deep interest in earth science geography since childhood. It’s a very free-spirited form, yet it’s an expressive piece that is beautiful.
The title of my Mixed Media piece is “Sol Alegre.” It is a whimsical view of the sun before an eclipse. Our sun in all its glory has been celebrated by cultures throughout the history of mankind. This piece was a result from studying various cultures, views, and legends concerning the sun around the world. “Sol Alegre” has a tribal, nostalgic, boho feel and will bless any viewer with feelings of joy and warmth. I love to study various artworks and cultures.
Nicholas Hackworth – I’ve captured all my photos in and around West Plains and the Ozarks. Having grown up and still living here, I’m fascinated by the beauty and charm of the region. The Ozarks are an incredible subject for photography, and they always inspire me to capture their wanderlust.
Janey Hale – The title of my collage is “Newsworthy” which refers to both the actual event and the natural phenomenon that should direct us to the wonders of the world God created. My art usually focuses on trying to capture the natural world through landscape painting. My goal is to try and tell a story that will resonate with the viewer.
Terry Hampton – “Turner Mill” is a collage made using images from the West Plains visitors guide. The mill wheel shown in the piece stands 25-foot tall in a secluded and shaded spring in Oregon County, Missouri. But here, I’ve removed it from its setting and made it the center of attention, thinking of the total solar eclipse, when the sun is not as we usually see it, and it’s the focus of all our attention.
“The Portal” is a piece just for fun. I’ve imagined a sky where something unusual has happened, where another dimension has intersected with ours. Ancient peoples were frightened of total solar eclipses because they were so rare, unexpected, and unexplainable. Even though we understand eclipses today, they are nonetheless a bit unsettling.
Rosemary Landers – These photos were taken at the last total solar eclipse in Missouri on August 21, 2017. Our family traveled to Hermann MO to experience this special event together. Our daughter Christina (Landers) Thompson lives in Atlanta GA with her family. She designed our “event” shirts! Her son Ethan was 9 months old in 2017. He is 7 years old now. Not many children can claim that they have witnessed 2 total solar eclipses at that age!
Donna Lay – The title of my Mixed Media piece is “Inexorable.” This abstract multilayered environmental painting portrays the eclipse as viewed from the space station which orbits our planet. The celestial movement of the earth around our sun, accompanied by our moon is inexorable, unstoppable, and relentless. It is majestic and full of grandeur and reminds us of the wonder of our universe.
Michael McClure – There is a world around us that we see, and there is a world within us which we feel. My work involves exploring where those two places meet. Some days my mood leans more towards simply appreciating the beauty I see all around me, and some days I need to express my emotions via color and light. Of course, moods change fairly quickly, which is why I prefer to finish a painting in the same session I started it, whether in the studio or outdoors en plein air. I find that working this way encourages a spontaneity that is guided by my intuition. I hope you will experience joy when you view my work, just as I experienced joy while creating it.
Diane Pence – I have always been drawn to the beauty of clouds and the night sky. Attempting to capture a moment in time, as a photo or a painting, is exciting to me.
Rhonda Richter – Painting “Evening on the Wabash” required navigating rapidly changing light. Every sunset is unique, difficult to depict, and impossible to revisit. Likewise, the drama of the eclipse will be quickly changing moments which will bring a distinct visual awareness of the immensity of creation.
Barbara Robinette – In my art, I am trying to show a moment of life and the feelings that might go with it. My aim is to “paint the poem” using images rather than words. Hopefully, the viewer can see and feel something ethereal, something out of this world, in each of my paintings: “Creation” seems of movement, like how the earth began with the sun shining warmth and life-giving growth to the rocks, plants and hills, including the waterfall. “Idea” shows a burst of energy and creativity when just thinking about something new. It might be like how God felt before making this earth long ago. “Sun” is an abstract of the beauty of a sun on blue sky, with a few clouds, and one weed welcomes the new day looking upward with open branches.
Gary Sanders – Astrophotography – This is the greatest way to give people appreciation for the dark sky and see the stars in a way they’ve never seen them before.
Kathy Schloss – Kathy Schloss’ oil pastel with colored pencil painting titled “Tranquil End” was chosen for the calming representation of our universe besides showing a one-point perspective. Her acrylic abstract, titled “Mystical Freedom” represents an otherworldly scene that relates to this special event and affords each viewer the freedom to explore their own interpretation. Kathy celebrates her love of nature through her paintings.
Cindy Temple – “Party in the Dark” This painting is all about fun, the chaos that might be happening in the dark, and the diversity of people coming to witness a total eclipse!
Mark Wallen – In my work, I love landscapes and am usually happy with my skies if nothing else. Eclipse and more fell into the portion of a painting I enjoy most. This is why I guess I like the Russian artist “Levitan” and The Hudson River Valley art Group. Both painted intense skies. The “ANNULAR ECLIPSE” is a work that fits the events showing, though not a total eclipse. The “AURORA BOREALIS” while not tied to the eclipse is an effect due to increased solar activity that shows up at Night.
Dolores Winkler – The world above us – The movement of Alcohol Inks and in bold Color! My dream is to live a life centered in creativity. I want to make amazing art, being around other artists, and to take the time to look around and really see this glorious world. Mostly I want to be able to make the kind of art that I love and that speaks to someone.
WPCA will host a Meet the Artists event on Sunday, April 7, from 2-4 p.m., in the Gallery at the Center, as part of the “Party in the Path” Eclipse Celebration. 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.
Join Grizzly Youth Baseball, MSU-WP Grizzlies and The Clubhouse as they all team up to host the first Grizzly Classic Baseball Tournament! Divisions are 8U ($250) and 9U-13U ($300)! Sign up today as spots will fill quickly!
See Grizzly Classic on Facebook.
Part of the Eclipse West Plains Party in the Path, the Cosmic Carnival for Kids will be held in the south parking lot of the West Plains Public Library and will feature lots of fun, free games and activities for kids. The Missouri State University-West Plains ASCEND (Autism Support Can Empower New Directions) Program will also sponsor a sensory-friendly space in conjunction with the event.
The Sunshine Festival is part of the West Plains, Missouri, 4-Day Party in the Path (April 5-8) celebrating the Total Solar Eclipse on April 8, 2024. It will feature vendors, food trucks, beer garden and other activities on the east side of the civic center.
https://www.explorewestplains.com/tse/ — and like and follow Eclipse West Plains and Explore West Plains on Facebook.
For those interested in having a food truck at the event, email tourism@westplains.gov.
If you would like to be a regular vendor for this event, see “Creative Blessings – Festivals & Events (West Plains, MO)” on Facebook and message there for more information. Link here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1158714288006644
Part of the Four-Day Eclipse West Plains – Party in the Path to celebrate the Total Solar Eclipse. One of several arts activities happening downtown!
From organizers:
We have made a decision to modify the class line up for the 7th annual Show Me RC 100!
-Midgets have been added to the program. This will follow the rules that have been adopted from Dustin Malicoat and will be posted in rules section. It will remain open tire for this event, but will likely be a spec tire in the future.
-360 Sprint will replace non-wing sprint for this race. 13.5 motor in blinky. Open tire. Like Crate Late Model, this is intended as a skill level class (beginner to intermediate). This is not for the driver that normally runs “open” classes. If running open sprint or open late model, you are not eligible for crate late or 360 sprint.
-B Mod has also been added. Same as the last previous shows, it will be open motor and tire. Stock chassis and follow Outlaw Lane -B Mod rules.
Tire rule will be the same as previous events. All classes are open motor except the following: Street Stock and crate late model. They will be on DE regulator, mini G 60, or proline Hoosiers.
Pit reservations will be announced in March.
We are looking forward to another fun event! If you have questions, please reach out to me.
Local artists and crafters will be set up around the square in historic downtown West Plains selling their wares.
There is just so much going on in West Plains over the course of April 5-8 that we can’t list everything here!! Please visit the Total Solar Eclipse page of explorewestplains.com for details. You can click on links from there to find out details about events. Join us for this very special and historic astronomical event!
You can also visit in person at the Ozark Heritage Welcome Center, 2999 Porter Wagoner Blvd., Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., for ISO-certified solar eclipse viewing glasses and other eclipse merchandise. Like and Follow Eclipse West Plains for updates and further information.
The glasses are also available at Country At Heart and the optometrist offices in West Plains.
Free to the public for viewing during hours that civic center is open, typically 6 a.m.-7:30 p.m.
From organizers:
West Plains Council on the Arts (WPCA) will host an exhibition of works by area artists in the Gallery at the Center, West Plains Civic Center from March 30 through May 4, 2024. The Gallery, on the mezzanine, is open to the public during regular Civic Center hours.
“This is a beautiful, diverse collection of artwork created representing an eclipse, beautiful night skies, and other skyward representations,” organizers say.
Featured artists’ statements:
Robert Anderson – West Plains native Robert Anderson used his travel as a Forest Pathologist to capture the culture and landscape of many areas of the world. Now retired, he focuses on the Ozarks – landscapes, buildings, people, animals, and whatever presents itself for a picture.
Marc Brannan – For the Sky High exhibition, I have selected three prints that exemplify the joy and beauty that I try to bring out when I am taking evening landscape photography. Something that I feel can be seen in a lot of my photographs is how the evening or night sky can bring out a whole different light to be shown on the landscapes that are all around us. The titles that I will be showing include “A Fire in the Evening Sky”, “Day or Night?”, and “Like a Rainbow Tonight.”
Terri Combs – Art is the way I express my creativity and imagination through experimentation, exploration, and playful use of materials. These pieces were chosen to invite viewers to explore and examine the skies and solar system of the mind. My goal is to inspire viewers to create a story or message through personal perspective.
Lee Copen – The title of my painting is “Morning Glory.” It is a large oil painting of an amazing sunrise. I find that the sky is an endless source of inspiration. My goal is to paint fleeting moments of beauty in nature and share that beauty with others.
Becky Earls – This abstract Oil pastel piece is entitled “Rocky Mountain Sun.” It was inspired by deep reflection and study of the solar system and tectonic plates that bring forth land formations. I’ve had a deep interest in earth science geography since childhood. It’s a very free-spirited form, yet it’s an expressive piece that is beautiful.
The title of my Mixed Media piece is “Sol Alegre.” It is a whimsical view of the sun before an eclipse. Our sun in all its glory has been celebrated by cultures throughout the history of mankind. This piece was a result from studying various cultures, views, and legends concerning the sun around the world. “Sol Alegre” has a tribal, nostalgic, boho feel and will bless any viewer with feelings of joy and warmth. I love to study various artworks and cultures.
Nicholas Hackworth – I’ve captured all my photos in and around West Plains and the Ozarks. Having grown up and still living here, I’m fascinated by the beauty and charm of the region. The Ozarks are an incredible subject for photography, and they always inspire me to capture their wanderlust.
Janey Hale – The title of my collage is “Newsworthy” which refers to both the actual event and the natural phenomenon that should direct us to the wonders of the world God created. My art usually focuses on trying to capture the natural world through landscape painting. My goal is to try and tell a story that will resonate with the viewer.
Terry Hampton – “Turner Mill” is a collage made using images from the West Plains visitors guide. The mill wheel shown in the piece stands 25-foot tall in a secluded and shaded spring in Oregon County, Missouri. But here, I’ve removed it from its setting and made it the center of attention, thinking of the total solar eclipse, when the sun is not as we usually see it, and it’s the focus of all our attention.
“The Portal” is a piece just for fun. I’ve imagined a sky where something unusual has happened, where another dimension has intersected with ours. Ancient peoples were frightened of total solar eclipses because they were so rare, unexpected, and unexplainable. Even though we understand eclipses today, they are nonetheless a bit unsettling.
Rosemary Landers – These photos were taken at the last total solar eclipse in Missouri on August 21, 2017. Our family traveled to Hermann MO to experience this special event together. Our daughter Christina (Landers) Thompson lives in Atlanta GA with her family. She designed our “event” shirts! Her son Ethan was 9 months old in 2017. He is 7 years old now. Not many children can claim that they have witnessed 2 total solar eclipses at that age!
Donna Lay – The title of my Mixed Media piece is “Inexorable.” This abstract multilayered environmental painting portrays the eclipse as viewed from the space station which orbits our planet. The celestial movement of the earth around our sun, accompanied by our moon is inexorable, unstoppable, and relentless. It is majestic and full of grandeur and reminds us of the wonder of our universe.
Michael McClure – There is a world around us that we see, and there is a world within us which we feel. My work involves exploring where those two places meet. Some days my mood leans more towards simply appreciating the beauty I see all around me, and some days I need to express my emotions via color and light. Of course, moods change fairly quickly, which is why I prefer to finish a painting in the same session I started it, whether in the studio or outdoors en plein air. I find that working this way encourages a spontaneity that is guided by my intuition. I hope you will experience joy when you view my work, just as I experienced joy while creating it.
Diane Pence – I have always been drawn to the beauty of clouds and the night sky. Attempting to capture a moment in time, as a photo or a painting, is exciting to me.
Rhonda Richter – Painting “Evening on the Wabash” required navigating rapidly changing light. Every sunset is unique, difficult to depict, and impossible to revisit. Likewise, the drama of the eclipse will be quickly changing moments which will bring a distinct visual awareness of the immensity of creation.
Barbara Robinette – In my art, I am trying to show a moment of life and the feelings that might go with it. My aim is to “paint the poem” using images rather than words. Hopefully, the viewer can see and feel something ethereal, something out of this world, in each of my paintings: “Creation” seems of movement, like how the earth began with the sun shining warmth and life-giving growth to the rocks, plants and hills, including the waterfall. “Idea” shows a burst of energy and creativity when just thinking about something new. It might be like how God felt before making this earth long ago. “Sun” is an abstract of the beauty of a sun on blue sky, with a few clouds, and one weed welcomes the new day looking upward with open branches.
Gary Sanders – Astrophotography – This is the greatest way to give people appreciation for the dark sky and see the stars in a way they’ve never seen them before.
Kathy Schloss – Kathy Schloss’ oil pastel with colored pencil painting titled “Tranquil End” was chosen for the calming representation of our universe besides showing a one-point perspective. Her acrylic abstract, titled “Mystical Freedom” represents an otherworldly scene that relates to this special event and affords each viewer the freedom to explore their own interpretation. Kathy celebrates her love of nature through her paintings.
Cindy Temple – “Party in the Dark” This painting is all about fun, the chaos that might be happening in the dark, and the diversity of people coming to witness a total eclipse!
Mark Wallen – In my work, I love landscapes and am usually happy with my skies if nothing else. Eclipse and more fell into the portion of a painting I enjoy most. This is why I guess I like the Russian artist “Levitan” and The Hudson River Valley art Group. Both painted intense skies. The “ANNULAR ECLIPSE” is a work that fits the events showing, though not a total eclipse. The “AURORA BOREALIS” while not tied to the eclipse is an effect due to increased solar activity that shows up at Night.
Dolores Winkler – The world above us – The movement of Alcohol Inks and in bold Color! My dream is to live a life centered in creativity. I want to make amazing art, being around other artists, and to take the time to look around and really see this glorious world. Mostly I want to be able to make the kind of art that I love and that speaks to someone.
WPCA will host a Meet the Artists event on Sunday, April 7, from 2-4 p.m., in the Gallery at the Center, as part of the “Party in the Path” Eclipse Celebration. 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.
Part of the 4-Day Party in the Path to celebrate the April 2024 Total Solar Eclipse, the Dice Run will start with the first roll stop, from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., at the West Plains Civic Center East Parking Lot where the highest roll wins a prize. Other stops:
#3 – Rockbridge Rainbow Trout and Game Ranch (highest roll wins prize)
#4 – Hodgson Mill highest roll wins a prize (lowest roll wins prize)
#5 – Dawt Mill (highest roll wins prize)
#6 – Back to the Civic Center (lowest roll wins a prize)
For those unfamiliar with the rules of a dice run, five dice will be rolled at each of the six Dice Roll Stops. Each player’s score will be recorded on their score card with prizes awarded to winner of each stop as noted above. $100 cash is awarded to the person who has the highest score from all 6 rolls.
– oldest participant (driver or passenger)
– youngest passenger
– person who lives the farthest from West Plains
– person who has the lowest score from all 6 rolls
The event is sponsored by Colton’s Steak House & Grill. West Plains Elks Lodge #2418 and West Plains AmVets Post 98 are graciously donating their time to run this event to raise money for Christmas for Kids and area veterans.
Registration at www.37thcasa.net
Tickets are available at the gate but are cash only.
Advance tickets here.
Join us for the ultimate celebration. Prepare for epic moments at our Balloon Glow in collaboration with the Eclipse West Plains: Party in the Path 4-day festival! Live performances from Bands Fender Bender & Ha Ha Tonka, kids zone, food trucks, vendors, fireworks and so much more!
Join us in making a difference! 🌟 Reserve your tickets now for the Balloon Glow and be part of a cause that truly matters. Your support can change lives. Act with purpose, purchase your ticket today!
Eclipse West Plains: Party in the Path 4-day festival Information: explorewestplains.com/tse/
Event Schedule:
Gates open at 4:00 p.m.
Fender Bender 5:30 p.m.
Ha Ha Tonka 7:00 p.m.
Balloon Glow 7:30 p.m.
Fireworks 8:30 p.m.
There is just so much going on in West Plains over the course of April 5-8 that we can’t list everything here!! Please visit the Total Solar Eclipse page of explorewestplains.com for details. You can click on links from there to find out details about events. Join us for this very special and historic astronomical event!
You can also visit in person at the Ozark Heritage Welcome Center, 2999 Porter Wagoner Blvd., Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., for ISO-certified solar eclipse viewing glasses and other eclipse merchandise. Like and Follow Eclipse West Plains for updates and further information.
The glasses are also available at Country At Heart and the optometrist offices in West Plains.
Register at www.ozsbi.com/events or call 417-256-9724.
Free to the public for viewing during hours that civic center is open, typically 6 a.m.-7:30 p.m.
From organizers:
West Plains Council on the Arts (WPCA) will host an exhibition of works by area artists in the Gallery at the Center, West Plains Civic Center from March 30 through May 4, 2024. The Gallery, on the mezzanine, is open to the public during regular Civic Center hours.
“This is a beautiful, diverse collection of artwork created representing an eclipse, beautiful night skies, and other skyward representations,” organizers say.
Featured artists’ statements:
Robert Anderson – West Plains native Robert Anderson used his travel as a Forest Pathologist to capture the culture and landscape of many areas of the world. Now retired, he focuses on the Ozarks – landscapes, buildings, people, animals, and whatever presents itself for a picture.
Marc Brannan – For the Sky High exhibition, I have selected three prints that exemplify the joy and beauty that I try to bring out when I am taking evening landscape photography. Something that I feel can be seen in a lot of my photographs is how the evening or night sky can bring out a whole different light to be shown on the landscapes that are all around us. The titles that I will be showing include “A Fire in the Evening Sky”, “Day or Night?”, and “Like a Rainbow Tonight.”
Terri Combs – Art is the way I express my creativity and imagination through experimentation, exploration, and playful use of materials. These pieces were chosen to invite viewers to explore and examine the skies and solar system of the mind. My goal is to inspire viewers to create a story or message through personal perspective.
Lee Copen – The title of my painting is “Morning Glory.” It is a large oil painting of an amazing sunrise. I find that the sky is an endless source of inspiration. My goal is to paint fleeting moments of beauty in nature and share that beauty with others.
Becky Earls – This abstract Oil pastel piece is entitled “Rocky Mountain Sun.” It was inspired by deep reflection and study of the solar system and tectonic plates that bring forth land formations. I’ve had a deep interest in earth science geography since childhood. It’s a very free-spirited form, yet it’s an expressive piece that is beautiful.
The title of my Mixed Media piece is “Sol Alegre.” It is a whimsical view of the sun before an eclipse. Our sun in all its glory has been celebrated by cultures throughout the history of mankind. This piece was a result from studying various cultures, views, and legends concerning the sun around the world. “Sol Alegre” has a tribal, nostalgic, boho feel and will bless any viewer with feelings of joy and warmth. I love to study various artworks and cultures.
Nicholas Hackworth – I’ve captured all my photos in and around West Plains and the Ozarks. Having grown up and still living here, I’m fascinated by the beauty and charm of the region. The Ozarks are an incredible subject for photography, and they always inspire me to capture their wanderlust.
Janey Hale – The title of my collage is “Newsworthy” which refers to both the actual event and the natural phenomenon that should direct us to the wonders of the world God created. My art usually focuses on trying to capture the natural world through landscape painting. My goal is to try and tell a story that will resonate with the viewer.
Terry Hampton – “Turner Mill” is a collage made using images from the West Plains visitors guide. The mill wheel shown in the piece stands 25-foot tall in a secluded and shaded spring in Oregon County, Missouri. But here, I’ve removed it from its setting and made it the center of attention, thinking of the total solar eclipse, when the sun is not as we usually see it, and it’s the focus of all our attention.
“The Portal” is a piece just for fun. I’ve imagined a sky where something unusual has happened, where another dimension has intersected with ours. Ancient peoples were frightened of total solar eclipses because they were so rare, unexpected, and unexplainable. Even though we understand eclipses today, they are nonetheless a bit unsettling.
Rosemary Landers – These photos were taken at the last total solar eclipse in Missouri on August 21, 2017. Our family traveled to Hermann MO to experience this special event together. Our daughter Christina (Landers) Thompson lives in Atlanta GA with her family. She designed our “event” shirts! Her son Ethan was 9 months old in 2017. He is 7 years old now. Not many children can claim that they have witnessed 2 total solar eclipses at that age!
Donna Lay – The title of my Mixed Media piece is “Inexorable.” This abstract multilayered environmental painting portrays the eclipse as viewed from the space station which orbits our planet. The celestial movement of the earth around our sun, accompanied by our moon is inexorable, unstoppable, and relentless. It is majestic and full of grandeur and reminds us of the wonder of our universe.
Michael McClure – There is a world around us that we see, and there is a world within us which we feel. My work involves exploring where those two places meet. Some days my mood leans more towards simply appreciating the beauty I see all around me, and some days I need to express my emotions via color and light. Of course, moods change fairly quickly, which is why I prefer to finish a painting in the same session I started it, whether in the studio or outdoors en plein air. I find that working this way encourages a spontaneity that is guided by my intuition. I hope you will experience joy when you view my work, just as I experienced joy while creating it.
Diane Pence – I have always been drawn to the beauty of clouds and the night sky. Attempting to capture a moment in time, as a photo or a painting, is exciting to me.
Rhonda Richter – Painting “Evening on the Wabash” required navigating rapidly changing light. Every sunset is unique, difficult to depict, and impossible to revisit. Likewise, the drama of the eclipse will be quickly changing moments which will bring a distinct visual awareness of the immensity of creation.
Barbara Robinette – In my art, I am trying to show a moment of life and the feelings that might go with it. My aim is to “paint the poem” using images rather than words. Hopefully, the viewer can see and feel something ethereal, something out of this world, in each of my paintings: “Creation” seems of movement, like how the earth began with the sun shining warmth and life-giving growth to the rocks, plants and hills, including the waterfall. “Idea” shows a burst of energy and creativity when just thinking about something new. It might be like how God felt before making this earth long ago. “Sun” is an abstract of the beauty of a sun on blue sky, with a few clouds, and one weed welcomes the new day looking upward with open branches.
Gary Sanders – Astrophotography – This is the greatest way to give people appreciation for the dark sky and see the stars in a way they’ve never seen them before.
Kathy Schloss – Kathy Schloss’ oil pastel with colored pencil painting titled “Tranquil End” was chosen for the calming representation of our universe besides showing a one-point perspective. Her acrylic abstract, titled “Mystical Freedom” represents an otherworldly scene that relates to this special event and affords each viewer the freedom to explore their own interpretation. Kathy celebrates her love of nature through her paintings.
Cindy Temple – “Party in the Dark” This painting is all about fun, the chaos that might be happening in the dark, and the diversity of people coming to witness a total eclipse!
Mark Wallen – In my work, I love landscapes and am usually happy with my skies if nothing else. Eclipse and more fell into the portion of a painting I enjoy most. This is why I guess I like the Russian artist “Levitan” and The Hudson River Valley art Group. Both painted intense skies. The “ANNULAR ECLIPSE” is a work that fits the events showing, though not a total eclipse. The “AURORA BOREALIS” while not tied to the eclipse is an effect due to increased solar activity that shows up at Night.
Dolores Winkler – The world above us – The movement of Alcohol Inks and in bold Color! My dream is to live a life centered in creativity. I want to make amazing art, being around other artists, and to take the time to look around and really see this glorious world. Mostly I want to be able to make the kind of art that I love and that speaks to someone.
WPCA will host a Meet the Artists event on Sunday, April 7, from 2-4 p.m., in the Gallery at the Center, as part of the “Party in the Path” Eclipse Celebration. 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 West Plains Public Library (WPPL) will partner to bring quarterly art displays to the library. Photography from local artist Marc Brannan will be featured through the end of June 2024. Visitors may view the display at the library during their open hours, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday-Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday.
WPPL Director Greg Carter shares, “Here at the library, our vision is that we are a space where all come to learn, create, discover, and connect. There is no better way to accomplish that vision than displaying local pieces of art for the community to peruse and appreciate. We are always proud to partner with the Council on the Arts to bring the beauty of art to our patrons.”
Marc Brannan grew up on his family farm near Willow Springs, MO., and currently lives and works in West Plains. 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.
Brannan says, “I have always enjoyed the stories of my mom attending one-room schools when she was a kid, and I think that is a big reason I seek them out to photograph today. There are fewer of them around every year, as a lot of them slowly fall into disrepair and collapse unless they have been cared for or restored over the years. I love incorporating them into my landscape photography as much as I can, especially as a way of preserving their history. I have started to reach out with my photography and have started trying to capture more shots in other areas, as well as different states, both in nature and landscape scenes. Lately I have focused more on reaching out to new parts of Missouri, and trying to show the viewer that there is so much more around us than we are used to seeing locally. The pictures that I have selected for this exhibition show a range of my photos that depict the history and outdoor settings that our area, as well as other parts of the country, are known for—whether historic or in the natural beauty that we might otherwise only see if you were to travel there and see for yourself.”
A Meet-the-Artists event will be held on Tuesday, April 23, 2024, 3:00-4:30 PM, hosted by the library, 750 W. Broadway, in West Plains. The public is invited to attend, meet the artist, 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 Greg Carter greg.carter@westplains.gov at the library or WPCA Coordinator Audrey Scott at Audrey.scott@zizzers.org
Photo courtesy of Marc Brannan