‘Made in Jackson’ A tribute to the city’s spirit

The “Made in Jackson” Art Show opened September 5th as more than an exhibition. It was a love letter to the city of Jackson and the people who give it life. Held at the historic Patton House & Gallery, 512 N State St., Jackson, the show was both a tribute and a reflection. For me, it was about honoring the city in which I grew up, the city that continues to shape who I am.

“‘Made in Jackson’ is a tribute to the many faces, voices, and lives that make this city what it is,” I explained on opening night. “Each portrait in the collection tells a story. Of building, surviving, creating, and belonging.” Unlike many shows spotlighting celebrity or status, “Made in Jackson” shifts the lens toward presence. It celebrates the teachers, artists, elders, organizers, dreamers, and everyday people forming the heartbeat of Jackson. These are the faces making my hometown special.

The exhibit invited guests into more than just a gallery space. It offered an experience designed to engage, inspire, and spark conversation. Visitors explored an Activation Room, an interactive space featuring a “Living Wall” where they could contribute their own reflections on what it means to be “Made in Mississippi.” 

Complementing the visuals was an audio and sound experience, a curated playlist, and soundscape flowing throughout the venue.

Guests also enjoyed complimentary wine as they moved through the rooms, fostering connection and conversation. Later in the evening, the energy rose with a live performance from Coke Bumaye, whose music echoed the themes of survival and creativity at the heart of the show. His presence was especially powerful, as he was not only a performer but also one of the featured artists in the exhibition.

An artist talk, moderated by Krissi Be of Penthouse Views, brought the night to another level. Krissi’s ability to ask thoughtful questions allowed me to share the inspiration, evolution, and stories behind the work. It wasn’t just a Q&A, it became a dialogue between artist, moderator, and audience, deepening the meaning of that which “Made in Jackson” stands.

Still, behind every great event is a village of support. I remain grateful to those making the night possible. Krissi Be for her skillful moderation, Coke Bumaye for lending his talent and energy, and Garry Rudo Brown, owner of the Patton House, for opening his space and ensuring the show lived within a venue rooted in Jackson’s history. Most importantly, I thank Alexis Noble, whose creativity, patience, and support helped bring the vision to life. Without her, the details shaping the exhibit would not have come together so seamlessly.

To everyone attending the opening ceremony, I extend my deepest gratitude. “I want to sincerely thank everyone who took the time to join me for the opening,” I shared with the crowd. “Your support means everything.”

For me, the night was more than a milestone, it was a reminder of why Jackson’s spirit is unmatched. This city is filled with resilience, creativity, and a culture refusing to fade. Whether through art, music, activism, or daily life, Jacksonians continue to shape their environment in powerful ways. “Made in Jackson” was my way of holding up a mirror to that truth.

The work will remain on display throughout the month of September, giving more people the opportunity to engage with the stories and faces within the collection. The exhibit is free, Monday – Friday, 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.

At its core, “Made in Jackson” is not about me, it’s about us. It’s about honoring those who live, work, dream, and create in this city every day. Whether guests came for the art, the stories, or simply the atmosphere, the hope is they left with a deeper connection to the people and places defining Jackson.

As I reflect on the show, one thought stays with me. This is Jackson. And these are the faces that made it.