A coastal gem renewed: The Gulfport Arts Center shines brighter than ever

Every exhibiting artist at The Gulfport Arts Center works one day a month in the gallery.
The Gulfport Arts Center is far more than a building—it’s a thriving reflection of the Gulf Coast’s artistic heartbeat and cultural spirit.

Located in The Carnegie Library, the storied building has stood for more than a century—108 years to be exact—since its construction in 1916. According to the State of Mississippi, it holds the distinction of being the first public library on the Mississippi Gulf Coast to receive funding from the Andrew Carnegie Foundation. The library was formally dedicated on November 20, 1916, and opened its doors to the public on April 3, 1917.

“It’s amazing to me that this building survived Katrina,” Carol Hutcherson said. Hutcherson is an exhibiting artist at the gallery, who also works at the gallery.

In fact, every exhibiting artist at The Gulfport Arts Center works one day a month in the gallery – so when you visit, you are always being welcomed by a local artist.

“I am a full-time multi-media artist,” she shared with a laugh. “I can finally say that now, as a retired public school art teacher who now gets to honor the urge to create whenever it strikes!” 

The Gulfport Arts Center is a vibrant hub of artistic expression. And now, following a series of stunning renovations, the center is more ready than ever to embrace its role as the heartbeat of the Coast’s creative community.

Source: mangoliatribune