Contributed

Milly West, a well-known figure in the Mississippi art community, is closing a significant chapter in her life as an artist, art collector, gallery owner, and advocate.

Known for her passion for folk, self-taught, and Cuban artists, West is divesting her vast collection, marking the end of an era for one of the region’s most prominent champions of art and culture.

As the former owner of Southside Gallery, West played an instrumental role in shaping the arts scene in Oxford and beyond.

Her gallery became a focal point for the community, a place where artists found recognition, and community members discovered the impact of having creative talents residing in communities across Mississippi.

“I’ve been fortunate to collect and promote art from all over the South and Cuba,” she said.

Her travels to the Mississippi Delta, Alabama, Georgia, and Cuba have built bridges between communities, fostering connections that transcend borders.

Now, as she prepares to “let go” of her collection, West offers a final opportunity for art lovers to own pieces from her gallery.

The public is invited to explore the gallery she built as an addition to her home in Oxford, Tres Peurtas Gallery (212 Bramlett Blvd.), and tour her home which is filled with art from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Oct. 4 and 5.

“Milly’s legacy as an advocate for the arts remains deeply rooted in the community, and her impact will continue to resonate long after her collection finds new homes” said Wayne Andrews, director of the Yoknapatawpha Arts Council.

This is a unique opportunity to discover works that have been part of a personal collection while also hearing the backstory from the person who purchased it from the artist.