Celebrate the 80th Anniversary of Wolfe Studio at The MAX on August 22
MERIDIAN, Miss. (July 29, 2026) – The Mississippi Arts + Entertainment Experience (The MAX) is partnering with the renowned Wolfe Studio for an 80th Anniversary Experience on Saturday, August 22, featuring art activities, conversations, special guests, and the opening of a new temporary exhibition celebrating the studio’s creative legacy.
Founded in Jackson, Mississippi, by visual arts pioneers Karl and Mildred Nungester Wolfe, Wolfe Studio has delighted generations of collectors with its ceramic birds, creatures, and nativity sets—all hand-painted, with each figure unique. Now under the leadership of the Wolfes’ daughter, Bebe Wolfe, and her husband, David Weidemann, the studio has grown from a two-person operation into a collective of roughly a dozen artists.
The anniversary experience, free with admission, begins at 9 a.m. with morning meditation in the Citizens National Bank Courtyard. Following the outdoor meditation, guests are invited to enjoy coffee and conversation as Bebe Wolfe shares stories from the studio's history and legacy.
Throughout the day, visitors can participate in hands-on art activities while Wolfe artists lead printmaking and slip-casting demonstrations inside The MAX's art studios. Guests are also encouraged to bring their favorite Wolfe figurines and share their stories for the Wolfe Creative Legacy Archive.
The day concludes with a conversation between Bebe Wolfe and fellow artist Jason Bouldin, followed by a reception celebrating the opening of The Wolfe Creative Legacy: Works from Karl, Mildred, & Bebe Wolfe. Curated by Christina McField, Curator of Changing Exhibits + Programs, the exhibition will be on view at The MAX from August 22 through September 26.
Visitors are encouraged to make it a full weekend in Meridian. On Friday, August 21, The MAX will host A Day for Artists in partnership with the Mississippi Arts Commission, bringing together artists from across the state for workshops, networking, and professional development. Attendees can connect with statewide and national artist service organizations to learn about grants, residencies, employment opportunities, and other resources.
For a full schedule of the Wolfe Studio 80th Anniversary Experience, or to see more upcoming events, please visit www.msarts.org/events.