Two Art Exhibitions Bring People to Downtown Joplin

By Kristi Spencer

Downtown Joplin gets a splash of color as Spiva Center for the Arts opens two exciting exhibitions. “Watercolor USA” and “Jeffrey C. Legg: Alchemy of Light & Shadow” bring national-level water media and striking still-life oil paintings to the community, offering art enthusiasts a chance to experience two mediums in one visit.

Watercolor USA: A National Tradition Hits the Road

For the first time in its more than 60-year history, “Watercolor USA,” the nation’s premier showcase of water media, has come to Joplin. It’s traditionally held at the Springfield Art Museum, but the show traveled to Spiva this year while the Springfield venue undergoes renovations. Artists from 38 states submitted 356 pieces, and 103 works by 72 artists were selected for the show, representing 29 states in total.

Nick Nelson, director of the Springfield Art Museum, explained, “As the museum made plans for construction, we knew we had to find a way for Watercolor USA to continue. We’re excited to have Spiva Center for the Arts as the new home for this exhibition in 2025.”

Heather Lesmeister, executive director of Spiva, added, “We are honored to host Watercolor USA. It allows the community to engage with national-level artists and expands Spiva’s mission of presenting world-class art in Joplin.”

Shaun Conroy, Spiva’s exhibit director, said, “Watercolor USA offers visitors a chance to experience a national competition with a long history, something that both artists and the public can appreciate and draw inspiration from.”  

This year’s juror, Paul Jackson, is known as one of today’s most versatile contemporary watercolorists. Works were selected based on technical mastery, originality and artistic quality. Artists were notified that their work was selected, and they sent their work to Spiva. Paul made his award decisions after viewing the pieces in person.  

“Watercolor USA” will be in the gallery until Oct. 11.

Jeffrey C. Legg: Alchemy of Light & Shadow Returns Home

Also in the gallery is “Jeffrey C. Legg: Alchemy of Light & Shadow,” which marks the homecoming of the Joplin native and Master Signature Member of the Oil Painters of America. Legg’s works showcase his skill for dramatic still-life oil paintings.

“This exhibition is deeply personal for me,” Legg shared. “Returning to Joplin, where my artistic journey began, feels like a full-circle moment. Sharing my work with the community that shaped me is incredibly gratifying.”

Legg’s paintings have been shown in prestigious venues, including the Gilcrease Museum and Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, and have captivated collectors worldwide, including astronaut Neil Armstrong. His work will even be included in a digital time capsule scheduled to land on the moon, reflecting the lasting impact of his painting.

“I’ve always been drawn to form and texture, with dramatic contrasts of light and shadow,” Legg said. “All of it is motivated by my love for nature and the Creator who made it all. Each painting is an attempt to pause time and capture a moment that evokes memory, emotion or reflection.” Legg is an avid outdoorsman and says his time in nature has profoundly influenced his work.  

Legg has been a regular instructor at the Scottsdale Artist School and has held painting workshops across the U.S., as well as England and France. His paintings have been featured in many publications, including on magazine covers.  

Legg also shared advice for aspiring artists. “Paint every day. Seek truth and beauty. Don’t compromise quality or be in a hurry. Your style will just happen if you paint enough paintings. Ten thousand hours is a good start.” He also advises young painters to create relationships to help guide them. “My mentor taught me that creating art really involves all the senses. Meaning that it’s not a static experience. It is a creative experience requiring input into all of our senses, which in turn inspires one to create.”

You can see Legg’s work on display until Oct. 25.

Plan Your Visit

Lesmeister said both of these shows make Joplin a place to see these remarkable pieces up close. “We’re proud to present these shows in Joplin. They reflect our ongoing commitment to providing access to high-quality art and making our city a destination for art lovers.”

Conroy added, “Both ‘Watercolor USA’ and Jeffrey C. Legg’s exhibits are a true show of talent and dedication to the arts. Jeff brings us into the world of oil painting with his incredibly detailed work, while ‘Watercolor USA’ shows off talented artists from across the nation whose passion and commitment to the art form cannot be missed.”

Whether you are an art collector, local or visiting Joplin, this is a great opportunity to see some beautiful art in an equally beautiful setting.  

If you see a piece you love from either exhibition, you can purchase it through the Spiva gallery. Just stop by the desk and the staff can help you arrange the purchase.

Spiva Center for the Arts is located in downtown Joplin at 212 W. Seventh St. Its galleries are open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m.  

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