Valerie Clark, "Searching for Conviviality"

The Southern Missouri Arts Connection (SMAC) will present the work of local artist and College of the Ozarks graduate Valerie Clark in a solo exhibit, Searching for Conviviality, at the SMAC Art Center on historic Downing Street in Hollister. The exhibit will run from August 2-31. An opening night reception for the show will be held Friday, August 2, 6-9 p.m., in conjunction with State of the Ozarks (SOTO) First Friday Art Walk.  Both the exhibit and reception are free and open to the public.

Clark is currently the artist-in-residence at SMAC Art Center. Her solo exhibit will be the culmination of her work over the past year while serving in that capacity. The SMAC Artist-in-Residence Program is made possible through a generous grant from Community Foundation of the Ozarks and Springfield Regional Arts Council.

“Family and friends have always been important to me,” Clark said. “My exhibit is about creating festive moments with them. We often don’t remember day-to-day living, so it’s the special get-togethers with good friends that make our wonderful memories.” She hopes her artwork conveys joy and celebration to those viewing the exhibit.

During the opening reception, visitors may view the exhibit, enjoy free refreshments and tour the rest of the center’s private studios. The Vintage Paris Coffee kiosk will be on sight. At 7:30 p.m. during the reception, Clark will talk about her art and answer any questions.

Each month during their exhibits, SMAC highlights one of the many local non-profit organizations that serves the area. This month SMAC is drawing attention to the Branson Humane Society. The Humane Society aids in the alleviating of distress and suffering of animals, and promotes humane treatment through protection, placement and public education.