Article by: Abbagale Looney, Contributing Writer, Photos from Loyola Art Show Website

The Loyola Art Show is a relatively new attraction that takes place annually in downtown Mobile, Alabama. It debuted in 2023 from the effort and vision of its founder, Kimberly Zukley. The candidates selected for their art undergo fierce competition, with several hundred applicants narrowed down to just over 60 gifted artists. These professionals are all local to the Southeast and attract over 7,000 art connoisseurs each year.

With art of all shapes, colors, sizes and styles to be appreciated at the Loyola Art Show, there is no shortage of variation for any spectator. This year’s art show displayed exhibits of nostalgia, natural scenery, chic trends, architectural depictions, abstract interpretations and everyday motions.

One such booth, Clay Designs by Margaret Hutcheson, displayed intricate pottery designs. Her work created a vibrant feel that mixed traditional pieces (such as vases) with creative detailing that reflected her craftsmanship and intentional design. 

Gabrielle Marshall featured stunning art with dramatic contrast. Her work can give pause to any audience and force them to simultaneously take in a breath and her talented work. She has several pieces featuring Mobile and even a beautiful depiction of South’s Moulton Tower.

In his oil paintings, Shane Miller creates naturalistic art that creates a sense of longing for something far off. They have a fantastical feel to them, even with their emphasis being on relatively natural scenes. Miller’s work gives the audience a glimpse of the peacefulness found in nature, capturing euphoric moments on canvas. 

Rachel Warner, an artist located in Mobile, depicts snapshots of life on paper with beauty and artistic precision. Her work persuades you into thinking that you are witnessing a memory captured in real time, rather than simply spectating at an art show. Her art feels intimate, as if it has let you in on a secret. It is bold, and as all art should, it makes you feel. 

Liz Lane uses bright, vibrant colors and images in her art, creating a sense of whimsy that lacks no sophistication. Her art is strikingly elegant while maintaining a contagiously fun air. It makes you feel like you are wearing a pair of stilettos during a night out on the town: strong, daring, colorful and confident. It can inspire butterflies and nervous smiles, hidden giggles from red-glossed lips. Although she will not be posting new art on her Instagram due to issues with AI, she does have a lot of previous art showcased featured on her page, and it should absolutely be appreciated by eager art enthusiasts and potential investors.  

Amy Spencer reveals an appreciation for nature that is evident throughout the entirety of her work. Her Instagram description states, “I am a botanical artist who uses real specimens, like wildflowers & weeds, as my primary medium.” Her affinity for plants is contagious, and her art highlights the intricate detail already present in nature, if we take the time to look for it. Her work reveals that art is all around us; from the weeds to the wildflowers, we need only appreciate it in its form.

There is something to be said about preserving the originality of artwork in a world of mass production and convenience. The Loyola Art Show not only gives artists a venue to showcase their art, but it creates a space of interaction between artists and their audience. Observers do not just see displays on a wall but get a feel for the soul behind them. Participants in the event are present and active, ready to answer questions about the art displayed, the inspiration behind it and where to find more of it (i.e., their websites/social media). Whether a newcomer or long-time Mobile resident, everyone should consider attending the fanciful new tradition that is the Loyola Art Show.

There were many other artists present at the Loyola Art Show with amazing talent. To view work by the artists included in this article, visit their Instagram pages @mvhutcheson, @gabriellemarshall_studio, @shane.artistry, @rachelwarner.art, @lizlaneart and @amyspencerbotanicals.