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There’s no two ways about it — we are living in unsettling times.
With the volatility of the political landscape, social media algorithms that thrive on promoting inflammatory and divisive content, the erosion of trust in our democracy, the media and public institutions, it’s a toxic stew — and we are being cooked. As an art museum professional for over 10 years, I continue to believe that the antidote is human connection and shared experiences.
Division thrives in isolation and separateness, while dialogue and conversation lay the foundation for meaningful exchange. Recall your best memories, and I am almost certain they involved other people. At the Mississippi Museum of Art, in these unsettling times our intention is to create opportunities for that kind of human connection through conversation and art experiences.
That is fantastic news. Even in this cynical environment, there is an institution that people believe in. Art, in the broadest sense, helps us make sense of the world. Art inspires us. Art reveals truth, and we believe art museums have a responsibility to our community to create spaces and places that foster connection and a break from doomscrolling. In a report by Eliana Langer titled “Engines of Social Good: Rockefeller Support for the Arts and Museums,” she states:
People attend an earlier Art and Coffee event at the Mississippi Museum of Art in Jackson. Credit: Mississippi Museum of Art
“Communities with access to cultural institutions like museums rank better on health, happiness and social cohesion indicators. In a time when polarization is on the rise and membership in traditional connectors like churches and social clubs is on the decline, the role of museums has never been more critical.”
That’s why we have revived a program that celebrates the role of art in our lives and the value of experiencing it together. In March, the Mississippi Museum of Art relaunched its Art and Coffee series to create places for people to gather, learn, support and strengthen points of connection that make living worthwhile.
The next Art and Coffee event at the Mississippi Museum of Art in Jackson is scheduled for 10 a.m. on April 11.
The Art and Coffee returned in March with an intergenerational community celebration. The program featured an original song written and performed by Hollis Watkins, a beloved Civil Rights veteran, about slain Civil Rights leader Medgar Evers, set to the tune of “Amazing Grace,” performed in front of his portrait.
That moment was sacred. It reminded us of our shared past and gave us hope for the way forward. That day reaffirmed a belief that rests at the core of my being. Art is the balm that can save the human soul. As I witnessed Hollis singing in front of Medgar’s portrait, tears began to emerge. Not because of sadness, but because of abiding gratitude and awe.
In a nutshell, Art and Coffee is a moment to pause and savor the beauty of a work with a community of art appreciators and enthusiasts. There is no need to be an expert or scholar. This is for anyone seeking a moment of respite and a sense of community in these chaotic times. Each month, we will feature a speaker who is contributing to Jackson’s cultural ecosystem. Please join us at 10 a.m. on the second Saturday of each month.
Art and Coffee is sponsored by Urban Foxes.
Monique Davis is the director of the Center for Art and Public Exchange at the Mississippi Museum of Art and the chief equity and inclusion officer. Davis says she is dedicated to creating human-centered spaces that inspire meaningful dialogue and foster understanding. A winding journey has shaped her career: from being a certified public accountant and Howard University graduate to advocating for homeless veterans and creating safe spaces for nursing mothers.
