June 14-15 M&J Home at 124 North Spring Street hosts mother and son art show.

Mother and son artist duo Kayla and John Mangrum, known as JOHN + KAYLA, showcase their unique series featuring famous artists and their works.  Think Picasso holding a cat in front of his self-portrait, Van Gogh standing astutely in front of his very own work, At Eternity's Gate, or Monet depicted with a lifesize painting of his Water Lilies, to name a few.  The event will be held at M&J Home, 124 North Spring Street, Murfreesboro, on Friday, June 14, from 5-8pm and Saturday, June 15, from 10am-6pm.

Prepared to be filled with joy as you enter the world of Kayla and her son John Mangrum.  Their infectious smiles are a testament to their passion for art, which is beautifully reflected in their paintings.  Despite their significantly different styles, their love for all things art is undeniable.  Their ability to masterfully navigate a wide variety of well-known artist's styles while infusing their unique flair is unmatched.

Kayla Jan Mangrum or KAYLA- of JOHN + KAYLA or "Mom" (born 1951) is a contemporary artist, illustrator, muralist, and set designer.  Much of her work explores whimsical portraiture of children and anthropomorphic themes using mice and rabbits.  Her career has centered on imaginative and creative exploration utilizing mixed media and found objects.  She developed teaching methods known as "Frog Hops" for new artists and artists with exceptional needs.  She has published work used in multiple Murfreesboro art therapy groups. Kayla was born a twin in Poplar Bluff, Missouri, and currently lives in Middle Tennessee with her family.  John Anthony Mangrum, or the "JOHN" or "ME" (born 1971) of JOHN + KAYLA, is a southern artist known for his primitive style, a mixture of Modern and Folk, through portraiture, still life, narrative painting, collage, and found object sculpture.  Some of his work diverges into Abstract Expressionism and Minimalism by exploring color, shape, and space in simplistic, dream-like forms.  Born in Jonesboro, Arkansas, John has lived across the southeast United States and has settled with his family in Middle Tennessee.

The idea of a mother-son art show was not even on Kayla and John's radar when sitting at church one Sunday, they decided to create a singular, collaborative art piece challenging both of their artistic styles.  One piece led to another, and the Mom & Me series was born.  This series has morphed into a collection of thirty-seven works they are both incredibly honored to share.

This art series is so powerful because they have featured a range of famous artists while adding a touch of Kayla and John flare to each painting. You will notice part of each piece is entirely dedicated to the featured artists' style (a humble tribute, if you will) while also allowing a dedicated portion to the actual artist. Both Kayla and John have worked on each canvas, sometimes simultaneously. The results are a breathtaking showcase of memories made by a mother and son working together to create something both will remember for a lifetime.

Don't miss this opportunity to create your own special memory at the Mom & Me: Painting Other Great Artists art show.  Bring your mom, bring your grandma, bring a friend, and join us in celebrating the unique bond between a mother and son through art. Enjoy refreshments, live music, and register for a free John + Kayla painting.