Fun fact: Mississippi boasts more Grammy winners per capita than any other state. But the Birthplace of America’s Music is also home to Ballet Magnificat!, New Stage Theatre, visual artists like Wyatt Waters, authors like Angie Thomas, and countless other creators of all stripes. Following are just a few of the artists, galleries, dance studios, museums and more that make Mississippi colorful.
Amplify Joy Studio, Jackson
Amplify Joy Studio is more than just a dance studio — it’s a movement of love, creativity, and heart.
Serving cities throughout the Magnolia State, Amplify Joy offers top-tier choreography, engaging classes, and training that reaches beyond technique. With a mission to pour into the hearts of kids and adults alike, this studio creates a nurturing, joy-filled environment everywhere it goes to make sure that everyone feels seen and celebrated.
In addition to dance instruction, Amplify produces inspirational dance films that move audiences from the inside out. Each film tells a story designed to uplift and connect. Follow us on socials … there is a new film dropping soon!
Stay tuned — Amplify Joy Studio is bringing its energy to Flora! Whether you’re a novice or an expert, from kids to teens to adults, classes are coming soon, and you don’t want to miss a beat!
Art for All Mississippi, Jackson
Art For All Mississippi encourages and helps people with disabilities to express themselves through art. The group offers professional instruction and guidance through a variety of techniques. Classes are offered two days a week. Three of our student artists have become successful professional artists with gallery representation. Learn more: https://artforallms.com/
Ballet Magnificat! School of the Arts, Jackson
Since 1989, Ballet Magnificat! School of the Arts has been devoted to training young dancers in excellence while glorifying the Lord Jesus Christ through the art of dance.
Our Lower School (ages 3-7) introduces children to creative movement, motor skills, and basic ballet terminology, all beautifully interwoven with Bible stories to nurture a love for God’s Word.
The Upper School (ages 8 and up) provides rigorous instruction based on the Vaganova method, enhanced by Ballet Magnificat!’s distinctive style to develop technical skill and spiritual depth.
Students have the unique opportunity to perform in productions alongside our professional touring company, gaining invaluable experience in a Christ-centered environment.
Located at 5406 I-55 North in Jackson, we invite you to become part of a community where dance and faith unite.
Visit our website to learn more and register today! balletmagnificat.com/about-school-of-the-arts
Belhaven University Theatre + New Stage Theatre, Jackson
In Jackson, a vibrant and meaningful partnership is shaping the next generation of theatre professionals. While Belhaven University Theatre and New Stage Theatre don’t share an official partnership on paper, their ongoing collaboration has created a dynamic pipeline between academic preparation and professional practice.
“Belhaven Theatre and New Stage Theatre share the goal of presenting quality theatre in the Jackson metro,” said Dr. Elissa Sartwell, chair of Belhaven’s theatre department. “While we don’t have a formal partnership, it’s clear we make each other stronger.”
That mutual support is evident across productions, internships, and mentorships. New Stage Artistic Director Francine Reynolds describes the relationship as “reciprocal,” noting how both institutions serve as resources for one another.
“Belhaven has such a robust theatre department,” said Reynolds. “We’ve been able to coordinate internships that provide course credit and stipends for students, while they provide valuable support for us in various departments.”
For students, the value goes beyond the résumé. They see their professors modeling what it means to be a working theatre professional. Faculty members like scenic designer Braden Graves and costume designer Ruth Dentel regularly lend their talents to New Stage productions, bridging the classroom and the stage.
“When our faculty design for New Stage, they bring back new materials, methods, and techniques that enrich what we’re able to offer students,” Sartwell said. “One of our students assisted Braden on the scenic design for ‘Come From Away.’ That’s the kind of hands-on experience you can’t teach in a lecture.”
The synergy is also artistic. According to Reynolds, these collaborations have elevated New Stage’s productions. “Faculty bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise,” she said. “Their design contributions have helped us reach artistic excellence.”
And the connections run deep. Alumni often find their first professional roles at New Stage before heading into the broader theatre world. Some never leave — six current New Stage staff members are Belhaven graduates. Others return to the stage season after season, acting in productions like “The Sound of Music,” “Elf,” and “Little Women,” which was directed by Belhaven alum Malaika Quarterman.
This ongoing connection directly supports Belhaven’s mission to prepare students to serve their community, collaborators, and Creator in the world of theatre. “Our students graduate with extensive production experience,” said Sartwell. “They’re ready to step into companies like New Stage because they’ve already done the work.”
Reynolds echoes the sentiment. “There’s mutual respect between our organizations,” she said. “That’s why this partnership works so well.”
In a city teeming with artistic talent — from Fondren Theatre Workshop to Millsaps and Jackson State University — the Belhaven-New Stage collaboration stands as a model of how the academic and professional worlds can work together to strengthen the theatre community.
“When theatre artists work together, everyone benefits,” said Sartwell. “And Jackson audiences are all the richer for it.”
Briarwood Arts Center, Jackson
Briarwood Arts Center curates and facilitates free educational arts enrichment programs and creates spaces for community members to explore their artistic curiosity. Our cost-free model empowers the next generation of Mississippi artists to create without barriers. We fulfill this purpose through our curriculum and family-oriented capacity-building experiences.
Elim’s Art Concepts, Jackson
At Elim’s Art Concepts and Decorative Designs, Harold Hart and his team pride themselves on providing quality products, top-notch customer service and creative design expertise, backed by over 20 years of experience in the framing industry. The name Elim means the sweet land of God. Our mission is to provide our customers with the highest quality picture frames at affordable prices. Everyone should be able to display their cherished memories in a beautiful frame. The services that we offer are tailored to fit both residential and commercial customers. This includes shadowboxes, custom mattings, fileting, digital enlargements, custom mirrors, sporting memorabilia and distressing frames. We will also do art installation or hanging. Do you have diplomas and licenses that need to be displayed? We can do that too. Only the highest quality materials are used in our frames, including solid wood and premium matting and glass. This ensures that your frame will not only look great, but will also last a lifetime. Quality and personal service matter! We would be honored to be your framer. Big or small, Elim’s Art Concepts and Decorative Designs can do it all. We are thankful to have served the Jackson, MS area for over 20 years and look forward to serving the community for many more. Call or come by for a consult. We love building relationships with our clients!
Call 601-540-4810 and follow us on Facebook.
Eudora Welty House and Garden, Jackson
Nestled in Jackson’s historic Belhaven neighborhood, the Eudora Welty House and Garden invites visitors to explore the life and legacy of one of Mississippi’s most treasured authors. This year, the house celebrates its centennial — 100 years of history and inspiration.
Eudora Welty, Pulitzer Prize winner, observer of the human spirit, and lifelong Mississippian, lived and wrote in this beautifully preserved 1925 Tudor Revival home for more than 75 years. Every space reveals her thoughtful nature and devotion to the craft of writing, from her personal library to the typewriter that brought her memorable characters to life. Welty’s fiction, including “The Optimist’s Daughter” and the short story “A Worn Path,” among many others, gave voice to the everyday Southern experience with humor, depth, and dignity.
Outside, the garden she lovingly tended reflects her appreciation for beauty, nature, and reflection — sources that deeply informed her work. Guided tours are available year-round.
First Baptist Jackson Orchestra Scholarship Program
The First Baptist Jackson Orchestra Scholarship Program began in 2016. The goal was to minister to students enrolled in local colleges and universities who in turn could support our orchestra by filling out needed instrumentation. We engage students at the undergraduate and graduate levels who are experienced players.
Participants do not have to study music, however, to participate. Members may be on a professional music track or studying education, medicine, engineering, computer science, psychology, speech and language, and others. Graduates of the program now are members of the Mississippi Symphony, worship pastors, and established professionals in their fields of study.
Jackson Symphony League
The Jackson Symphony League Sub Deb program invites 10th-12th grade girls to volunteer with the Mississippi Symphony Orchestra. Earning community service hours and experience in fundraising, hospitality, and leadership, the Sub Debs are rewarded with an annual Ball each spring. For more information, visit jacksonsymphonyleague.com. Registration is open July 1 through August 30.
Jennifer Adams, Gluckstadt
This singer-songwriter and church musician will be leading worship at the 2025 MCL Women’s Retreat, happening Sept 19-20! Jennifer’s songs are full of scripture and hymn references, personal stories and humor, and she loves performing at homes and churches. Find her at JenniferAdamsMusic.com or on Spotify.
Lindsey Claire Dance Company; Byram, Crystal Springs
Lindsey Claire Dance Company offers dance, tumble, and cheer classes for ages 6 months and up in Byram and Crystal Springs. With a focus on community and personal growth, LCDC is “More Than Just Great Dancing” — it’s a place where every child shines in weekly classes and seasonal performances.
Magnolia Dance School, Pelahatchie
Nestled in downtown Pelahatchie, Magnolia Dance School is opening its second season with brand-new dance space curated with joy in mind. Director Cindy Edmondson Wilson uses dance to inspire confidence, creativity, and resilience. Magnolia Dance is committed to creating a safe, uplifting environment where kids can make mistakes, grow with grace, and just be kids. They encourage effort over execution and offer support, not pressure.
Martyrs Tone, Jackson
Martyrs Tone is a Christian hip-hop artist who learned the expression and hustle of hip-hop as a youth. Through his music, he shares the gospel with those outside the walls of the church and encourages other disciples. He sees himself as simply a servant using hip-hop to make Christ known.
Matthew Clark, Madison
Matthew Clark, a singer/songwriter and author, just completed The Well Trilogy – three albums, each with a companion book of 13 essays written by a variety of contributors exploring encountering Jesus, faith-keeping, and Christ’s return. Whether it’s a song, podcast, meal, or essay, Matthew aims to “make things that make room for people to meet Jesus.”
McTaggart Fine Art, Flora
Sarah McTaggart has painted for 30 years, learning from some of the best artists across the country. Her favorite mediums are oil and acrylic. She opened McTaggart Fine Art in Flora to offer a space where artists can gather, collaborate, and teach, reflecting her vision of community, creativity, and Southern hospitality.
Mississippi Arts + Entertainment Experience, Meridian
The Mississippi Arts + Entertainment Experience (The MAX) presents Cecelia Moseley: Remnants of Language exhibition, on display starting August 23. Moseley’s work features oversized metal sculptures, prints, and a vivid acrylic installation. Learn what inspires Cecelia and other Mississippi artists at The MAX in downtown Meridian. Learn more at msarts.org
Mississippi Museum of Art, Jackson
Discover art and culture in the heart of the city at the Mississippi Museum of Art. Explore our changing and permanent exhibitions, outdoor spaces, and The Museum Store. Visit msmuseumart.org or call 601-965-9934 for more information.
Opera Mississippi
Opera Mississippi celebrates its 80th season with a grand tribute to America’s 250th birthday. This milestone season features vibrant performances that honor our nation’s rich cultural heritage, showcasing works by American composers. Join us in a year of celebration, unity, and artistic expression that reflects the spirit of America.
Pacesetter Gallery, Flowood
Pacesetter Gallery features fine art and unique gifts by Mississippi artists. Discover original local art, weekly lessons, art camps, and cultural events. Located at 310 Ridge Way next to Kohl’s in Flowood. Awarded Mississippi Tourism Attraction of the Year at the Governor’s Conference on Tourism. Learn more: https://pacesettergallery.com/
Rhoads Designs, Brandon
Chuck Rhoads is an artist from Brandon. This collection features exquisite handmade scripture, church art, and unique creations made from aluminum, metal, and glass using the Repoussé technique. These pieces make perfect gifts for any occasion. For more details or to request custom pieces, visit rhoadsdesignsart.com
RiverPointe Dance Academy, Vicksburg
Since 2009, RiverPointe has been providing Vicksburg with a professional studio atmosphere geared toward all ages and skill levels and offering sound technical training in many genres of dance. We believe ballet is fundamental for learning any style of dance, and all of our dancers train in ballet at least weekly. We also teach our students to be confident, encouraging, and compassionate in and out of the studio. Above all, RiverPointe teaches dancers to use their talent to glorify our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. It is by His grace that we can move and enjoy doing something we love!
Studio Sole Dance, Florence
Studio Sole Dance is kicking off a brand-new season and inviting dancers of all ages to join the fun. Located in Florence, Mississippi, SSD offers a wide variety of dance classes for students ages 2-18, including ballet, tap, jazz, lyrical, hip-hop, tumbling, and musical theatre.
Celebrating over a decade of dance, Studio Sole has become a beloved part of the community — known for its encouraging Christ-centered environment, skilled instructors, and commitment to building confidence through movement. Whether a student is stepping into their very first class or refining their skills on the competitive stage, SSD provides a place where every dancer can grow.
The studio’s recreational program is designed to nurture creativity and joy in a welcoming space, while its competitive team, The Collaborates, offers additional training and performance opportunities for dancers looking to push themselves further.
Fall classes begin this September, and families can expect a fresh lineup of exciting options designed to fit all interests and experience levels. SSD’s popular summer camps are also underway, offering a fun way to explore different dance styles before the school year begins.
With a focus on Christ, technique, confidence, and community, Studio Sole Dance continues to be a place where dancers feel seen, supported, and inspired. Registration details and fall schedules will be announced soon.
To learn more or get involved, visit studiosoledance.com.
Walter Anderson Museum, Ocean Springs
Nestled in the heart of Ocean Springs, the Walter Anderson Museum of Art celebrates the legacy of Walter Inglis Anderson (1903-1965), an artist, naturalist, and visionary. Through vibrant exhibitions, educational programs, and community events, WAMA inspires curiosity, creativity, and connection to the natural world. Visitors can explore the iconic Community Center Murals, the beloved Little Room, and a new contemporary art exhibit and cafe, The Traveler. Discover the story of Walter Anderson and kindred artists while also finding inspiration for your own story. Plan your visit at walterandersonmuseum.org. 510 Washington Ave., Ocean Springs | 228-872-3164
Worship leaders to watch
Drew Warford
Johann Acuna
You don’t need another reason to make church a priority this summer – but if you want one, visit First Baptist Jackson or Broadmoor Baptist Church in Madison and experience worship led by their new worship pastors, Drew Warford and Johann Acuña respectively.