PRESS RELEASE
Laurel, MS — The Lauren Rogers Museum of Art (LRMA) is proud to announce the launch of its
inaugural Artist-in-Residence program, welcoming Meridian-based contemporary artist Brejenn
Allen for a two-week residency from January 26 through February 6, 2026. The residency
culminates in a public reception on February 15, 2026 from 1:30-2:30PM, celebrating the artist’s
work and student-created artworks developed during the program.
Throughout the residency, Allen will work on-site in the Museum’s studio, using the site as a
creative workspace and a place for public engagement. Visitors are invited to observe and interact
with the artist during scheduled open studio hours, which offer a behind-the-scenes look at her
creative process. Allen will also present at artTalk where she’ll provide insight into her practice
and an interactive demonstration that showcases her approach to storytelling through mixed
media painting.
A central component of the residency is arts education. In addition to open studio hours and
public demonstrations, Allen will lead several workshops. Registration is open for the public
mixed-media workshop, inviting creatives of all skill levels to explore texture and material-based
storytelling. Allen will also work with Laurel High School students, plus a three-day workshop
series with students from the Laurel Magnet School of Arts. Working in small groups, students
will create mixed media paintings inspired by emotional themes such as happiness, love, and
home. By incorporating photos, found objects, and personal materials, students will learn how
everyday items can carry meaning and contribute to shared narratives.
The residency will conclude with a public reception on February 15, 2026, featuring artwork
created by Allen during her residency alongside student works produced during the workshop
series. The culminating display celebrates creative exploration, collaboration, and student voices
while highlighting the Museum’s role as a hub for contemporary art and community engagement.
This inaugural Artist-in-Residence program reflects LRMA’s commitment to contemporary
artistic practice, arts education, and meaningful connections between artists and the community.
For more information about the Artist-in-Residence program and related events, visit lrma.org or
follow Brejenn Allen, and the Lauren Rogers Museum of Art on social media.
