The L.V. Hull Legacy Center officially opened Phase 1 on Saturday in downtown Kosciusko with a public celebration honoring the legacy of folk artist L.V. Hull.
The day began with remarks around 1 p.m. at 105 Allen Street, followed by a ribbon cutting ceremony featuring Hull’s sister, Q.T. Tinnin, who had the honor of cutting the ribbon.
Kosciusko Arts Foundation President Allen Massey opened the program by reflecting on early efforts to preserve Hull’s artwork after her passing in 2008, crediting the “Friends of L.V.” for safeguarding her collection at Kosciusko City Hall beginning around 2011 and later working with preservation partners, including the Kohler Foundation, to conserve the work for public display.
Museum and office space now open
Saturday’s opening included two completed and accessible portions of the Legacy Center campus: the museum space showcasing Hull’s artwork, and the adjacent office building that will support ongoing operations and programming.
Inside the office space, visitors found interactive materials inspired by Hull’s work, including license plates, records, paint, and other found objects. Guests were encouraged to take part by decorating items in the style of Hull’s art, using everyday objects and bold colors just as she did.
The former home of L.V. Hull—now owned by Yaphet Smith and listed on the National Register of Historic Places—was also highlighted as a key part of the broader preservation effort.
Smith said Hull’s legacy continues to reach far beyond Mississippi.
“People used to come from around the world to visit L.V. You’d see it in the guest books—especially all those Germans,” Smith said. “So it’s a chance to re-energize this community and bring that back to life.”
Organizers also outlined the broader vision for the Legacy Center campus. Once complete, the project will include additional renovated structures for collection display, rotating exhibitions, staff offices, public programming, and a creative residency. The campus will also incorporate Hull’s original home, which is set for preservation.
The L.V. Hull Home & Studio was recently added to the National Register of Historic Places at the level of National Significance, recognized as the first home-studio of an African American woman visual artist and the first home of an African American art environment creator to receive that designation.
Arts Foundation leaders said the project is still growing, with Phase 2 already in development. Hollis Cheek emphasized what the next stage will mean for future generations.
“As we look to Phase 2, the next generation will be able to view and learn the story about L.V. and her art… and see her imagination.”
Kosciusko Mayor Tim Kyle praised the project’s impact on the city.
“This is another great addition to our community,” Kyle said.
“You’re hearing the word getting out in the state—not only in the state, but nationally about Kosciusko.”
Organizers said the opening marks a major milestone for the project and the beginning of expanded programming and education efforts in future phases.
See photos from the ribbon cutting ceremony and inside the museum below.
