Affection for animals of every variety has been a source of inspiration in the lives and artwork of many Coast artists, as seen in the group exhibit “Menagerie,” on display at MGCCC Harrison County Campus’s Fine Art Gallery through October 28, 2021.

Baba Scaturro is well-known for her whimsical animal pieces such as “Felis,” a ceramic sculpture with underglazing. It commemorates the life of her cat Felis, whom she had for 17 years.  “Animals have always been a part of my life. I feel totally disconnected and incomplete without them,” she said. “It’s no wonder they continually show up in my sculptures.

LucyEllen Landry Cummings began to create digital pet portraits during the pandemic lockdown.  “I had several friends lose pets, so I started doing them as memorials, then birthday gifts, and a few commissions,” she said. “I love being able to capture these beloved animals for people. The sad reality is we can’t love our pets into longer lives, but I hope that my art can give us a little piece of forever with our babies.”

Tessa Rose’s cat Blackie has been frequently featured in her art since he adopted her six years ago.  “He used to be a feral cat. Now he lives in kitty-cat luxury,” she said of her painting “The King.” “This painting really captures the transformation of the life he used to have versus the life he lives now.”

Katie McCann makes artwork about animals because she has always felt a special connection to them. “I was inspired to volunteer at the Jackson County Animal Shelter in 2014 and started fostering bottle babies,” she said.  “One of my favorite quotes regarding rescue is: ‘I asked God to send help to save the homeless, sick, and abandoned animals.’ God replied, ‘I have sent help. I sent you.’” McCann said.

Other participating artists include Tracy Williams, Herb Willey, Jaszy Smith, Anthony Badon, and Rhonda Herring.

The exhibit is free and open to the public. Gallery hours are Monday–Thursday, 9 a.m.–3 p.m. and Friday, 9 a.m.–1 p.m.

The Harrison County Campus is located at 2226 Switzer Rd, Gulfport. The art gallery is located in the fine arts building, Building D.

For more information, contact gallery director Cecily Cummings at cecily.cummings@mgccc.edu or 228.897.3909.