and purchase amazing
examples of Art and
Artisans.”
Young is even making
plans for the second
annual Spring Art in
the Park Festival saying
“Next year, I plan on
asking for a small both
fee so that we may
turn around and use
the booth fee to give
back cash awards to the
artists.” There is no booth
fee for participating
artists this year.
After the festival,
Young says, “We will
still continue to have
Art in the Park on select
Saturdays, where we
gather, paint, and show
what we do.”
Young began painting
in 1973 after he says he
was inspired by local
artist Marian Freeman. “It
has always been a desire
of mine to promote Art
in and around Oxford
and showcase a lot of
talented people,” he
says.
Through ArtWORKS
Alliance, Young and co-
founder Anita Ambrister,
aim to promote
“everything that is
considered Art and the
ARTS”. ✽
12
ABOUT ARTWORKS ALLIANCE
Mission Statement
We have a personal passion for the arts and know
how meaningful artistic expression, engagement, and
participation can be to an individual. This meaning creates
a fulfillment and mindfulness that’s hard to replicate.
We know this passion is shared across many colleagues
in Calhoun County and here in Oxford, which has the
potential to grow beyond our dreams and wishes.
We believe in the value that the arts can bring to a school
setting and students and realize that it is immeasurable.
We hope that the ArtWORKS Alliance creates a channel
of engagement opportunities for all of those around us
who have artistic abilities, passions or just curiosity. These
engagements will drive stronger relationships and a sense
of “giving back” to the community that supports us here in
Oxford and surrounding people of Calhoun County. These
could include art showcases, musician opportunities,
writer recognitions, volunteer opportunities, local
organization support, and so much more.
We believe that the arts are forever impactful and life-
changing. It is a field that we can apply to almost every
part of our lives, and without major arts efforts our lives
would be less colorful, less vibrant, and lack serious
amounts of diversity.
The opportunities are endless!
May 2018
INSIGHT