Crystal Shelwood
Blue & White Flash / Staff Writer
The mellow sounds of alto saxophonist Ormon White filled the air as participants perused the art pieces from Gallery 1 displayed on tables lined up along the sidewalk and inside the gallery, during last week’s Sidewalk Soirée.
More than 50 people attended the event held on Sept. 6, 2012 in celebration of the one-year anniversary of Gallery 1. Other One University Place businesses participating in the soiree were Envision Eye Care, the Penguin, and Royal Blue Boutique.
Attendees Soirée were treated to great food provided by The Penguin restaurant along with wine and cupcakes provided by Envision Eye Care and Royal Blue Boutique.
On Aug. 30, 2011, Gallery 1 became the first business to open at One University place. The gallery displays work by local and national artists and pieces from the JSU permanent collection, along with handmade items from Uganda. Artwork in the gallery ranges from $8 to $1,700.
Kimberly Jacobs, director of Gallery 1, was pleased about the progress made by the gallery.
“We are overjoyed with the accomplishments we have made this year. I would like to see more engagement with the public, for people to come in, learn, and understand the history of art at Jackson State, and what the University is moving towards as far as the arts as a form of outreach in the community, city, and nation,” said Jacobs. “This space was created for people to come in and have events and meetings.”
Keenan Mason, Gallery 1 assistant director said, “I feel great because it’s been nothing but progress. We have not had to take any steps back, only moving forward. Tony Davenport’s show is the best show we have had so far.”
Tony Davenport, a graduate of Jackson State, has more than 30 works of art on display at the gallery. His display includes sketches and paintings. A special commemorative piece marking the gallery’s first anniversary, OneUP, depicts a lively musical sidewalk scene much like the soirée.
Davenport stated: “Art is a sport, you have to work hard, practice and never give up. It is an imitation of life. I have always been encouraged to do my best, and I want to encourage others to never let anyone steal their dream.”
Although the Sidewalk Soiree had to be postponed from the original date of Aug. 31 because of Hurricane Isaac, students at the event said they had a fun and relaxing time.
“I am definitely enjoying myself at the first annual Sidewalk Soiree,” said Gabrielle Hall, a freshman music major.
“It is very nice and pleasant,” said Samantha Hall, a junior education major.
Jacobs looks forward to many more successful years at One University Place and plans to follow the mantra of one of her favorite quotes by Chakaia Booker, “Get to work, stay committed, and don’t look back!”
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