Ellington

The long-anticipated "Stop! In the Name of Art: Motown/Downtown Invitational" will open today at the Arts Center of Mississippi with about 60 works displayed. Pieces vary in media, from photography and painting to mixed-media, and feature iconic subjects such as Diana Ross and Michael Jackson. The exhibit is in conjunction with the fourth annual Storytellers' Ball, which carries the same theme as the invitational, and will be held Thursday, Aug. 13.

Mississippi artists Christina Cannon, Wyatt Waters and Lonnie Robinson will judge the invitational, and winners will be announced at an opening reception today, starting at 5:30 p.m. DJ Hova will spin classic hits, and hors d'oeuvres and drinks will be available. All artwork in the exhibit is for sale with proceeds going to the Greater Jackson Arts Council, which sponsors the event.

GJAC Programs Director Jon Salem said that although this is only the second year the Council has done the invitational, the quality of artwork is "much stronger" this year. He added that the Storytellers' Ball will feature music by a house band, a silent auction and special performances of Motown hits. Call 601-960-1557 to reserve tickets and for sponsor info.