Shakespeare’s “Wherefore Art Thou?” Showcased In Oxford Art Crawl

Yesterday, visitors from all over came to attend the Oxford Art Crawl. The event is hosted by the Yoknapatawpha Arts Council and is free and open to the public.

The Art Crawl began at the Powerhouse, where attendees could see the Shakespeare inspired show, “Wherefore Art Thou?” and grab a snack and something to drink while waiting for the Double Decker bus to arrive. The bus made stops at The Powerhouse, the Southside Art Gallery, The University of Mississippi Museum and the Gallery 130 in Meek Hall on campus. Attendees could stop at all of the individual locations and see the artwork that was on display.

When asked about when the Art Crawl started in Oxford, Wayne Andrews, the Executive Director of the Yoknapatawpha Arts Council said, “I think we are now in our fourth year of the art crawl.  It has become an established event with people looking forward to the event each month.”

Photo by Cassidy Nessen

Andrews said this month’s turn out was great. “We have groups of 70 to 80 at each location at the start waiting to hop on the bus and tour Oxford’s art spaces,” Andrews said. “I know that the wonderful weather helps as people enjoy a night out on the Square. I think having the destination with changing art makes it something inviting for people to explore each month.”

There is a variety of artwork on display at each Art Crawl destination. The Art Crawl gives attendees a reason to explore Oxford in a new, unique way.

“Taking a step outside of our routine to view art helps us see things in a new way and clear our minds from our daily problems,” Andrews said.

Attendees of all ages, locals and visitors from all over, come to experience the Art Crawl. Andrews says, “Programs like the Art Crawl are unique, as it brings together private spaces like Southside Gallery, Shelter and High Point with community organizations like the Arts Council, Artist Guild and University Museum. The arts are one of the features that defines Oxford regionally.”

Photo by Cassidy Nessen

The Art Crawl is more than a cultural event. It is our creative businesses strategically thinking and working together.”

The Oxford Art Crawl was presented with the support of Yoknapatawpha Arts Council, Visit Oxford, Southside Gallery, The University of Mississippi Museum, Gallery 130 & the University of Mississippi Department of Art.

For more information, contact the Yoknapatawpha Arts Council at 662-236-6429 or at oxfordarts.com.

Photo by Cassidy Nessen