By Andi Bedsworth

The year is passing so quickly that it seems as if we are on fast forward, and events are popping up like cotton was in the fields these past few weeks. I will cover what is up in the arts scene this week so you can jot those dates on your calendar and be ready for them.

This Tuesday at the Powerhouse, Nov. 14 the reception for the Biggest Baddest Art Show will be held. The annual show occurs every November as part of the Powerhouse Gallery Series and showcases current works by members of the Oxford Artists’ Guild. The guild includes many artists who specialize in varying mediums including photography, jewelry, pottery, wood turning, painting, sculpture and more. Members participate in group shows both indoors and outdoors throughout the year, attend meetings where programs are geared to artist’s interest, socials and in the guild gallery which is located upstairs in Sugar Magnolia Antique Mall. This show is exclusively for members and will be judged with prizes awarded in several categories. The reception will be held from 6-8 p.m. and is open to the public.

At Southside Gallery on Thursday, Nov. 16, stop by to see new work by William Dunlap and Maude Schuyler Clay. Dunlap will have sculptures and paintings on display and Clay will exhibit her new photographs. The show will be up until Dec. 2, but the reception is on Thursday from 5 to 8 p.m. Maude Schuyler Clay is best known for her iconic photographs of the Mississippi Delta and plans to exhibit close to 20 photographs in this show.  The title of the exhibition is Delta Landscapes. Clay will emphasize new photographs from her forthcoming book, which is to be published by Steidl in 2019, but will also include some classics such as Dog on a Log from Delta Land.  William Dunlap has exhibited his work at Southside Gallery since 1993. Dunlap received a bachelor’s degree from Mississippi College and a Master of Fine Arts from The University of Mississippi. His work is well known in Oxford and regionally, and this show will not only feature his paintings but two installations as well making it even more interesting.

Also on Thursday, Nov. 16, the University Museum will present An Evening with the Artist: Randy Hayes. The artist will speak on his career as an artist and will spend time in the galleries of his exhibit, Unwritten Memoir which will remain in the museum until Dec. 9. If you have not gotten a chance to see this show, this is the night to do so, as you will get to hear the artist speak about his work and even ask questions. Hayes is an extraordinary talent, and his work speaks for itself, but after speaking with the artist several times about his work, I can attest that it would be well worth it to make this event a priority. I hope you enjoy some or all of these arts events this week.