By: Nathan Duff, Delta State University
In the heart of the Mississippi Delta, Delta State University stands as a vibrant hub for artistic expression and creative innovation, fostering a legacy that resonates through its alumni and community. The university’s Fielding Wright Art Center is currently hosting “In the Making,” a group exhibition running from September 4 to October 2, showcasing the works of nine artists whose creative foundations were shaped by DSU’s Art Department. This exhibition, with a closing reception on October 2 from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., underscores the university’s enduring commitment to nurturing artistic talent and celebrating the region’s cultural heritage.
Beyond its celebrated exhibitions, Delta State is breaking new ground with the launch of two new Art Entrepreneurship degrees, a forward-thinking initiative designed to empower artists to thrive in today’s dynamic creative economy. The Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Arts Entrepreneurship is a traditional pathway that provides students with a strong liberal arts foundation while equipping them with the tools to transform their artistic passion into sustainable careers. The Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) in Arts Entrepreneurship is specifically designed for students who have completed an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree at a community college, allowing them to build on their technical training and apply it in a broader entrepreneurial and creative context.
Both pathways feature hands-on courses in business planning, marketing, and digital media, preparing students to navigate the complexities of the art world-from securing gallery representation to leveraging online platforms for global reach. The programs also emphasize networking, connecting students with industry professionals, alumni, and regional arts organizations to build robust career pathways.
The Art Entrepreneurship degrees reflect DSU’s holistic approach to arts education, blending rigorous creative training with practical skills. Students engage in workshops on grant writing, portfolio development, and social media branding, ensuring they are prepared to market their work effectively. By fostering an entrepreneurial mindset, the program empowers artists to create their own opportunities, whether launching independent studios, collaborating with businesses, or engaging in community arts initiatives. This initiative not only strengthens the Delta’s cultural landscape but also positions DSU graduates as innovators in the national and global arts scene.
DSU Provost Dr. Leslie Griffin said, “Our world continues to open doors that require us to expand our thinking about how we create and work. We are indebted to those who have inspired through the years-through teaching, education in many forms, and providing a creative culture for fostering artistic growth and appreciation. These influences are evident in these new degrees, which ensure that the legacy will thrive and continue as we embark on the next 100 years at DSU.”
The artists featured in “In the Making” exemplify the diversity and depth of DSU’s influence. From Hope Carr’s bold, emotionally resonant color palettes to Robin Whitfield’s watercolors crafted with foraged pigments, the exhibition reflects a deep connection to place, memory, and the natural world. Chesley Pearman blends painting, writing, and music inspired by the Delta, while Kate Ellis channels the region’s light and color, continuing the legacy of her father, mentor, and DSU icon Sammy Britt. Bill Abel’s landscapes reveal divine beauty in the everyday, and Susan Russell’s intuitive works in oil, pastel, and clay invite quiet reflection. Carol Roark, Ruth Harden, and Angie Cole round out the group, each weaving narratives of the Delta’s sensory richness, community, and history into their art. This collective showcase highlights the mentorship and community fostered by DSU’s Art Department, which has shaped generations of artists dedicated to creative exploration.
Delta State’s commitment to the arts extends beyond the classroom and gallery walls. The Fielding Wright Art Center, open Monday through Thursday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., serves as a community cornerstone, inviting visitors to engage with art that reflects the Delta’s unique identity. The university’s investment in programs like “In the Making” and Arts Entrepreneurship demonstrates its dedication to fostering creativity, preserving cultural heritage, and preparing students for impactful careers. For more information about the exhibition or DSU’s art programs, contact coguz@deltastate.edu or visit www.deltastate.edu. As Delta State continues to champion the arts, it remains a vital force in shaping the creative future of the Mississippi Delta and beyond.