Letter from the Director – Fall 2024

Dear Friends and Members, 

I am filled with gratitude for the support our community continues to offer WMA. This year has been one of transformation and growth, and we are proud to serve as a vibrant platform for cultural expression and connection within our Wiregrass community. Whether you’ve visited our exhibitions, attended a program, or contributed as a member or donor, your involvement strengthens the museum’s mission to inspire and engage through art and art education. Together, we continue to foster a deeper appreciation for the arts in our region, making WMA a hub where creativity flourishes and community bonds are cultivated.

This fall, we are thrilled to present several dynamic exhibitions that showcase the diverse range of talent within our local, regional, and national art communities. Our featured exhibition, Sarah Painter Hayes: The Florida Girls, explores the role of painting in storytelling and tradition in the exploration of our regional ecosystems. In addition, we will display, as we do every year, works from the museum’s permanent collection including a selection of recent acquisitions. This exhibition includes works from contemporary artists who use a variety of mediums to explore themes of identity, heritage, and transformation. Visitors of all ages will find resonance in the stories woven into these pieces, reminding us of the intricate connections between art, history, and everyday life.

Our programming continues to expand as well, with a series of artist talks, workshops, and educational outreach initiatives designed to engage our community in meaningful conversations around art and education. This season, we are particularly excited to offer hands-on art-making sessions for both children and adults, connecting participants with local artists and encouraging creative exploration. Additionally, we have a number of weekly programs including The Art of Yoga and Studio 126: After School Art, as well as our monthly Toddler Hour program- each designed to give members and visitors the opportunity to enjoy unique experiences at the museum. 

At WMA, we believe that art has the power to bring people together, and our upcoming community events reflect that commitment. This fall, we are partnering with local organizations and artists to host the third annual Pumpkin Patch: A Family Art Festival, an outdoor festival that celebrates creativity, live artist demonstrations, and interactive art experiences. It will be a gathering where families, artists, and art lovers can come together in a fun, relaxed environment. This event is just one example of how WMA continues to serve as a catalyst for cultural exchange and community building, reinforcing the museum’s role as a key destination in our region.

As we look ahead, I invite you to join us in celebrating all that WMA has to offer. Whether you are a longtime member or a first-time visitor, your participation is vital to our ongoing success. Thank you for your continued support and enthusiasm. I hope to see you soon and often! 

Kind Regards, 

Dana- Marie Lemmer

Executive Director and Curator