The Annette Howell Turner Center for the Arts will hold an opening reception on Mon., June 15, 2026, from 5 to 7 p.m., at 527 N. Patterson Street. The Center will feature the works of Preston King, “The Color of Place: Georgia State Parks,” Julie Mazzoni, “Intervals of Place,” Cat Babbie, “Science of Preciousness,” and the 18^th Annual Valdosta People’s Choice Photo Contest. Admission is free and light refreshments will be served.

Preston King Preston King, an award-winning artist, was born in Clinch County, Georgia, USA.  He began studying painting at age 13, starting in pastels under the tutelage of Ruth Collins in Waycross GA.  He received his Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Valdosta State University and has continued his art education via various workshops. Later, he returned to school to earn his Bachelor of Science-Nursing degree, also from Valdosta State University. Recently retired, King now works fulltime in pastels, both in studio and en plein air.

Julie Mazzoni is an American mosaic artist recognized for her innovative use of glass in both intimate and large-scale works. Self-taught since 2009, she has developed a distinctive approach that combines traditional craftsmanship with a contemporary sensibility. In 2011, Mazzoni was commissioned to create Holy Family II for Archbishop Wilton Gregory of the Archdiocese of Atlanta, and her mosaic Genesis was exhibited that same year at the Orsoni Gallery in Venice, Italy. Since then, she has exhibited widely across the United States, including at the Museum of Biblical Art in Dallas, the Women’s Museum of California in San Diego, and in four Mosaic Arts International exhibitions. Her work has been recognized with multiple awards in juried shows nationwide.

Cat Babbie is an abstract fiber artist, sculptor and creative project manager. Her work has been exhibited in various solo and group exhibits, including ArtFields, Charlotte International Arts Festival (CIAF), Good Year Arts, and ArtPop Street Gallery. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in studio art at James Madison University and has grown increasingly deep roots in Charlotte, NC, where she works out of her colorful studio located in the VAPA Center. She was an artist in residence at the Olive Stack Gallery in Listowel, Ireland in 2025.

 The Center also welcomes the always popular 18th Annual Valdosta People’s Choice Photo Contest exhibit. Entries from the photo contest will be on display for public voting, which runs through July 10. For four weeks, the public can view the framed photos in the Center’s Jerry Tillman Gallery and vote for their favorites. Overall winners will be announced at the awards reception held at the Center on Monday, July 20, 2026, from 5- 7 p.m. Cash prizes will be awarded.

Exhibits will remain open in the galleries for the public’s enjoyment through Wednesday, July 29, 2026. The People’s Choice Photo Contest exhibit will close July 20 after the awards reception. For more information, call 229.247.2787 or visit turnercenter.org. Patrons who need special assistance may contact the Center to make those arrangements.