Joplin, Missouri – November 16, 2005. George A. Spiva Center for the Arts is pleased to announce the opening of two exhibits: Spiva’s 58th Annual Membership Show, presented by Debra and David Humphreys, and By Degrees: MFA Student Works, featuring artwork by candidates for the Master of Fine Arts degree from the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville. The exhibits open to the public Saturday, December 3, and continue through Friday, January 13, 2006.

In their commitment to Spiva’s 58th Annual Membership Show, art patrons Debra and David Humphreys noted, “We’re very happy to sponsor this year’s exhibit at Spiva. It is an important annual venue for the many artists who support Spiva through membership, as well as an opportunity for the local community to get acquainted with the abundant talent in the four-state area.”

Spiva members over the age of 16 may enter their work in the adult competitive class, vying for $2,200 in cash prizes. The awards, generously provided by Dr. and Mrs. John C. Windle, will be presented in separate categories for two-dimensional works (paintings, drawings, prints, photographs) and three-dimensional pieces (sculpture, ceramics, jewelry).

This year the Windles contributed an additional $500 in awards earmarked specifically for art by children and youth under the ages of 16. Said Dr. Windle, "We believe that encouraging young people in the arts and recognizing their efforts are vital. Think how much art is waiting to be created!"

Along with the cash prizes, The Barrie Hunt Award will be given to an emerging artist for outstanding work in water media, while several youngsters will receive the Donna Gilbreth Awards for work by children.

Serving as this year's jurors are MSSU Art Department faculty members Burt Bucher,
Josie Mai, and Frank Pishkur.

By Degrees: MFA Student Works in Spiva’s second floor Regional Focus Gallery presents artwork by MFA candidates from the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville. “This is a first-time event for Spiva and the University,” Spiva Director Jo Mueller commented, “and we are pleased to present work emerging from this graduate-level art program in our region.”

The 58th Annual Membership Show and By Degrees preview Friday, December 2, at a reception for the artists, guests, sponsors, and Spiva members. Joe and Kate Supased, owners of Magic Noodles & Grill and The Thai Restaurant, are reception hosts for the evening, with pianist Kevin Costley providing the entertainment.

The Friday evening reception is also the only night for bidding in the 2005 Artful Ornament Auction. Original, one-of-a-kind artist-made ornaments will be on view in Spiva’s Third Street windows until bidding ends at 7:30 p.m. December 2. Proceeds from the silent auction will help establish the SpivaKids FunFund, a scholarship fund for children’s classes at the Center.

Spiva Center for the Arts is located at Third and Wall in downtown Joplin. Spiva galleries and gift shop are open Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. and Sundays, 1–5 p.m.

The Center, which is funded through memberships, contributions and grants, is open to the public. Admission is by voluntary contribution.

For additional information, please call 417.623.0183.

Thank you for your continued support