Ole Miss Sophomore’s Paintings Take Flight

McCullen’s artwork to be showcased at Mississippi Madness during Double Decker Arts Festival.

Until September 2015, painting was simply a relaxing hobby for Sarah McCullen, a sophomore at the University of Mississippi, and then the sale of a single painting launched the beginning of a bright watercolored future. McCullen moved often throughout her childhood, eventually finding a home in Oxford, a town with an artistic backdrop second to none.

After taking in all that Oxford has to offer, McCullen is working toward becoming a household name in the art community.

“Once we got to Oxford we knew this was home,” McCullen said. “It’s an incredible feeling being able to participate in the arts that I’ve seen and admired growing up. And now to be a part of that community is odd in a way, but I absolutely love it.”

While searching for an artistic identity, McCullen decided to begin using watercolors to create paintings of birds which she is now known for.

“I was always artistic, but could never quite find my niche. After my mom asked me to paint her a bird, everything took off from there,” McCullen said. “Birds can be a very sentimental thing for a lot of people. So, I think that was one of the things that help people connect with the artwork.”

After a photo of her art was posted on Facebook, McCullen’s work was chosen to be featured at Mississippi Madness on the Oxford Square, where she also works.

“I like the simplicity of her artwork, but it’s just gorgeous,” Barrie Welty, owner of Mississippi Madness said. “It transitions so well to homes, you can really put it anywhere in your house. The response to her artwork being displayed has been great, and it attracts a lot of attention.”

The photo that garnered the attention of the owners at Mississippi Madness was posted by McCullen’s mother, Beth, who is not only a parent but also a customer.

Sarah McCullen

“As her mother, I must say how exciting it has been to watch her talent grow. The best part for me, has been to see how fulfilling it is to her,” Beth said. “As a mom, you teach your child to prepare for life’s rewards and disappointments. It’s really fun to be able to see them enjoy a little success. And as a customer, well, I couldn’t be happier with my paintings.”

The sales from McCullen’s paintings help fuel her other passion, as she will be using her profits to help fund a potential mission trip to the Philippines as a part of Operation Christmas Child, where she has served as a year-round volunteer.

In addition to her work being displayed at Mississippi Madness, McCullen also offers custom artwork for clients. She is working to expand her brand, while continuing to gain support from the Oxford community.

“I want to keep exploring the art market, and getting my work out there. Oxford is such an art focused town, and I hope that by word of mouth people pass my name along and my paintings can reach more people,” McCullen said.

This weekend will be a busy time for McCullen as she prepares to showcase her artwork at the annual Double Decker Arts Festival in Oxford, Mississippi.

Steven Gagliano is a senior broadcast journalism major at The Meek School of Journalism and New Media. He can be reached at slgaglia@go.olemiss.edu.

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