A reception today from 2-3:30 p.m. at the Louise Campbell Center for the Arts in West Point opens an exhibit of artwork by eight members of the Campbell family. A gallery talk will offer insight into the creativity evident in generations of this local family.
Matriarch Lalouise Campbell became more interested in art later in life, after her husband, Frank Campbell Sr., passed away. She attended art classes at MSCW in her 50s. Most of the artwork in the show are works from her classes. Lalouise and Beverly Arrington were in art classes together at The W. Arrington would later marry Campbell’s youngest son, Carlisle.
Lalouise’s other daughter-in-law, Louise Walter Campbell, married her son Frank. Louise graduated from MSCW, majoring in art. She taught art in local schools and later was executive director of the Chamber of Commerce for West Point. She passed on her talents to her son, Critz Campbell, and granddaughter, Mary Campbell Gray. Louise continues to paint in her spare time.
Beverly Campbell majored in art at MSCW and taught art classes in West Point for many years. She shared her love of art with her son, Carlisle Douglas Campbell.
Art Shirley, Lalouise’s grandson, graduated from the University of Mississippi with a degree in art. While at Ole Miss, Art drew a daily comic strip, “Ernie, Skip and Joe,” for the Daily Mississippian. He has also self-published a comic book. Art is currently the web communications manager for Mississippi State University Extension Service.
Critz Campbell earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. He is currently an associate professor, recently promoted to department head of the Art Department at MSU.
Carlisle Douglas Campbell, another one of Lalouise’s grandsons, graduated from the University of Alabama and lives with his family in Alexandria, Virginia. He is senior director/communication at Capital One.
Mary Campbell Gray, Lalouise’s great-granddaughter, recently graduated from MSU with a degree in interior design. She moved to Nashville and is an assistant interior designer with Studio 1.2.1, a commercial interior design firm.
Ann Douglas Stone, another of Lalouise’s great-granddaughters, recently started painting while in college at MSU.
“As you can see, many members of the Campbell family have talent, while all the family supports and encourages these artists,” said Kathy Dyess of the West Point/Clay County Arts Council. “Lalouise would be so proud to see all their artwork.”
The Louise Campbell Center for the Arts is located at 235 Commerce St., West Point. The center is open most Wednesdays 1-4 p.m. and by appointment by calling 662-295-0461.
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