The Mississippi Museum of Art in Jackson is presenting ‘Coulter Fussell: The Proving Ground’ through June 14. The exhibition features five bodies of textile work created by the Water Valley artist since 2020. It marks the museum’s first survey of Fussell’s evolving art, which incorporates sculpture, upholstery techniques, mixed media, photography, and digital projection.
The show includes Fussell’s series titled Escape Quilts, War Quilts, River Quilts, Pillow Talk, and Video-Chiffons. Many materials used in her work are donated or inherited from community members and family, emphasizing a story of community and shared history, according to Betsy Bradley, the museum’s Laurie Hearin McRee director.
Fussell’s career has gained national attention. She was recently named a Creative Capital State of the Art Prize Artist for Mississippi, an award given to one artist in each state for innovation. She also received a fellowship and has had eight solo exhibitions since 2020, all helping to elevate her profile in the arts community.
The artist credits the museum’s support and her fellowship experiences for her growth. Fussell said the current exhibition represents her artistic pinnacle to date. Curator Kaegan Sparks noted that her use of donated fabrics fosters a personal connection with viewers, many of whom recognize familiar scraps in her works.
Fussell’s work often references her upbringing in a military town and incorporates imagery related to war and cultural exchange. Her pieces, such as ‘Hawks’ and ‘Country Captain,’ blend global textiles with personal and military motifs, weaving together themes of history, war, and community. Her Pillow Talk series offers playful, surreal headboards that reflect her personal observations and sense of humor.
In recent years, Fussell has integrated photography and video into her textile practice. Her Video-Chiffon series features translucent fabrics printed with photographs and videos, including footage shot by her teenage sons. Her installation ‘Hill Country’ combines these media into a portrait of home, blending familiar landscapes with innovative textile techniques.
For more information on the exhibition, including hours and events, visit msmususem.org.
Jon Ross Myers is the executive editor and publisher of the Mississippi News Network, Mississippi's largest digital only media company. He can be reached at editor@tippahnews.com
