Cullman – Missy Miles was recognized Saturday night as the winner of the Eleventh Annual Alabama Gourd Show (AGS). Miles participated in twenty categories, and received eleven first-place ribbons, two second-place ribbons, and three third-place ribbons. Compilation of the total number of points per ribbon gave Miles the title of “Gourd Queen” for the second year in a row.
Miles competed with 40 vendors from throughout the Southeast, including Alabama, Mississippi, Florida, and Kentucky, and the artists’ works were judged by officials from the American Gourd Society. Miles stated, “I am so honored to have been selected to receive this title again this year. The talent levels and competition levels were greatly improved.” Responsibilities associated with winning the crown include encouraging the art and crafting and also the growing of gourds. Although many people are not familiar with gourd art, it is a fast-growing medium in the art world.
Many locals are familiar with one of Miles other passions – murals. She recently completed her third mural in downtown Guin entitled “Freedom Eagle” which honors America and its veterans. Her tribute gourd to the patriotic wall, “United We Stand” won first place in the carved-and-painted category at the AGS. Miles stated that of all of the ribbons she received, that ribbon was the one she was the most proud of.
Even though the state gourd festival is now finished, Miles continues with her busy work pace. She is in the planning stages for a mural in Berry and additional murals in Guin. She will also be participating in the Buttahatchee River Fall Fest in Hamilton on October 31, where she will have many of her gourds on display and for sale. Additionally at the BRFF, she will assist the Northwest Alabama Arts Council, where she serves as secretary, with their children’s art booth in the arts and crafts section, and will be working with the children to make their own miniature gourd necklaces, which will be at no charge.
Following the BRFF, Miles will be putting the final touches on her Organic Vessels Studio, located on Jimmy Brown Road west of Hamilton, for its grand opening on November 28.
Additionally, Miles continues to help with art education through the programs of the Northwest Alabama Arts Council and Bevill State Community College – Hamilton Campus’ Continuing Education programs. She is also a member of the Car Nut Quilt Guild in Winfield where she quilts as a “stress reliever.”
For additional information on gourd art or murals, please contact Miles at (205) 921-1193 or via her website, www.organicvessels.com.
