PASS CHRISTIAN, MS (WLOX) -
It's rare to find a fine art gallery at an elementary school. If you stop by Coast Episcopal School on Espy Avenue in Pass Christian you'll find the Gail Keenan Art Center. The complex, with its contemporary architecture, promotes art and music.
Reverend Liz Jones said the school recognizes the importance of giving students a cultural experience as part of a well rounded education.
"We consider art and music to be a big part of what we do here at the school."
The art center opened in February of 2011. Its primary mission is to provide students with an appreciation for art. It also gives everyone in South Mississippi an opportunity to enjoy the work of artists from our region.
"We're kind of a bridge between Ocean Springs and New Orleans. There are not a lot of galleries in the area," said Art Teacher David Harrison.
The Gail Keenan Art Center recently featured an exhibition of pieces paying tribute to our Barrier Islands. Up next: a well known illustrator who does children's books will have his work on display.
Some of the artists of the future might come out of the school's ambitious art classes. In David Harrison's class, the kids seem to come to life when making art. Harrison says he loves every precious minute of it.
"I love seeing their faces light up," Harrison said.
The Gail Keenan Art Center at Coast Episcopal School invites you in to discover the magical world of art.
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