Welty Photo Exhibit Coming to Fondren

Special to Find It In Fondrenâ„¢ | Fondren Renaissance

Fondren Renaissance, in partnership with The Welty Foundation, is pleased to announce an April 2014 special showing of Eudora Welty’s personal collection of photographs.

Featuring over 30 prominent works depicting daily life in the 1930’s in Jackson, the show will include rare vintage photos taken by Miss Welty, some of which have never been exhibited.

The Photography of Eudora Welty will hang April 1-27 and will be housed and shown at The Cedars, Jackson’s oldest residential home, dating back to 1840.  Once a part of the Garland Plantation, The Cedars and its setting will serve as a fittingly simplistic background for the historically significant and artistic nature of Miss Welty’s subject matter and work.

“We are honored to be in partnership with the Welty Foundation in this endeavor of bringing this exhibit not only to the public, but to school children across state,” says Jim Wilkirson, Fondren Renaissance Executive Director. “It’s our goal to enhance the arts, but also to encourage in-depth study of local authors and artists throughout Mississippi. As part of our continuing quest, this exhibit offers a rare glimpse into this extraordinary Mississippian.”

Mary Alice Welty White, Welty’s niece and a member of The Welty Foundation board, says, “We’re excited about the opportunity to showcase these photos. (Aunt Eudora) could really capture the moment.”

A series of ticketed special events will be planned throughout the month and will feature, among others, an evening of bourbon tasting, as well as a luncheon with one of Miss Welty’s closest friends.  School groups and other organizations are encouraged to attend. The cost is $5 but is free for students or teachers with a valid ID.

For more information, to make advance reservations for groups wishing to attend or to volunteer as a docent for the exhibit, please contact Fondren Renaissance at 601.981.9606.

Show hours are Tuesday – Saturday, 10am to 4pm and Sunday 1pm – 4pm. This exhibit is made possible in part by a grant from Gannett.