Alex ellis
MISSISSIPPI DELTA, 2022 - 2023
Alex Ellis has explored different mediums of art throughout her adult life and continues to dedicate her passion to creating vibrant and engaging children's illustrations. Creating has been form of release and over the years she has cultivated her dedication, which has given her the building blocks to see the world around her in a different perspective. She has been commissioned for a wide range of projects, from personal clients to children’s books. The great Natural State of Arkansas inspires her dreamy yet earthy colors and mood which takes you into a different world. Alex is a mother, wife and a seeker of creating a colorful and meaningful life.
Alex Ellis has chosen to co-create and -facilitate an art program that crosses generational and cultural lines with fellow AAW artist Esmeralda Flores, weaving together community by way of tapping into the inherent creativity that resides in all of us. She is working with McElroy House and the River Valley Adult Learning Alliance to create various art classes and special events for students to meet one another and share their art. Classes are offered to children, teens and adults throughout the week, with plans for a bigger exhibition next year of all of the art and creations from the classes. She has also participated in other McElroy events, such as face painting during Yell Fest for the community.
CULTURE HUB
McElroy House is a grassroots organization located in the small town of Dardanelle, Arkansas, working to bring people together across differences and find local solutions to local problems. Valuing its landscape and its cultural resources, McElroy House explores how the past informs the present, and how, by building bridges across generations and cultures, we can work toward a stronger and more inclusive future. McElroy House hosts weekly craft nights and bilingual gardening gatherings; tends to a grief and joy garden; runs a mutual aid food pantry, and holds story circles and living room conversations. The organization believes that community members are experts in their lived experience, and it work to carve out space where people can come together to build equitable, beloved community.
SOCIAL IMPACT INITIATIVE
The River Valley Adult Learning Alliance provides free, accessible, one-on-one and small group, quality instruction and support to adults and families in Franklin, Johnson, Logan, Pope and Yell Counties. They strive to build strong partnerships within their communities and help adults and families meet their self-appointed learning goals.