Our Story

The Yoknapatawpha Arts Council is the official arts agency for Oxford and Lafayette County, with one full-time staff member, a twelve member Board of Directors, and volunteers working to transform the creative works of artists, performers, musicians, and writers into programs that create jobs, attract tourists, and enrich our community. How effective is the arts council? In 2010 the arts council working with local artists fostered over 315 days of art programs.

The Impact

School budgets are major topic in every community. Important programs such as the art education are often in danger of being cut as they are viewed as "extra" program.  In truth, arts education impacts core learning skills as a national study found that students engaged in the arts are  4 times more likely to be involved in the arts and sciences.  In a state where almost 20% of the people are illiterate the arts are key to education as students involved in the arts are also four times more likely to excel in reading.

Sadly, here in Mississippi we are no exception.  This year, our governor proposed to cut funding to the arts by  20%.  Our goal is simple: to provide as many children with opportunities to interact with the arts as possible.  You can help our small art council impact the lives of children in the Oxford, Mississippi/ Lafayette County area with an after school art camp taught by local artist and teacher, Andi Bedsworth.  The art projects will be ones that don't require a lot of expensive materials.  The program is design to teach children how to make art trading cards.  Small works for art the size of baseball cards with objects from around their home. This will allow them to continue to create and be inspired after they leave camp.  

What We Need & What You Get

Your donation is 100% tax deductible (as allowed by law). Donations will be used to pay for supplies and the artist who teaches the class. 

$10- You will receive a thank you card created by one of our campers

$25- You will receive a special thanks on the online art gallery

$50- You will receive a personalized trading card made by a camper

$100-  You will receive a special piece of art made by the teacher of the camp

Other Ways You Can Help

Share this link with all your friends.  This is the most important step.  Our goal is only $500.  

Of course if you happen to run an art supply store, office supply store, or would like to donate supplies that will be used for free art camps we can use:

pencils, regular and colored

cardstock and colored paper,

glue,

paint,

small paint brushes,

markers,

scrapbook supplies

However, with your help, we can raise much much more.