For more than 40 years the Vicksburg Art Association has played a vital role in the community.

From children and youth art shows to monthly educational workshops, the VAA offers artists and art lovers an outlet for their respective creative passions.

This past weekend, students from all four of the local high schools participated in the group’s annual youth art show.

Jessie Long, a senior at Vicksburg High School was awarded first place, Best in Show with a rabbit sculpture.

Another of the VAA’s offerings is the annual VAA Members Exhibition, which is set to open May 5 at 7 p.m. during a reception at the Old Constitution Firehouse Gallery, 1204 Main St.

The exhibition will run through May 9 with specified viewing times.

VAA president and coordinator of the event Randy Jolly said this adjudicated art show is one that allows the community to celebrate its own talents as well as showcase the beauty of this community.

Those featured in the show, Jolly said, will include both seasoned professionals to those just beginning and everything in between.

The cost to enter the VAA Members Exhibition is $15 for current members and for those who want to join or renew their membership the cost is the $15 entry fee in addition to a $20 membership fee.

Art will be accepted from 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday, April 28 and from 4 to 6 p.m. Monday, April 30 at the gallery.

Pat Brown, who is a member of the art faculty at Delta State University, will serve as the judge for the show.

“Pat is an incredible artist in her own right and has worked in several media,” Jolly said.

Competitive awards for the exhibition will include Best of Show, first, second and third place.

During the reception, a People’s Choice award will be presented.

“This award is presented so that those who attend the opening get a chance to be a judge and maybe your favorite piece can be recognized,” Jolly said.

For more information and or a complete list of entry rules, call 601-638-9221, 601-415-0934 or email rjolly@mc.edu.