McKee Auto Supply Adopts Local Artist Laura McCowan

McKee Auto Supply has “adopted” local artist, Laura McCowan. Ms. McCowan has been a Jackson County resident since she was 16, and worked in the community for decades utilizing her creative skills, from drawing pictures of mice while working at Gray Hawk Headstart to creative problem solving as a supervisor for MidSouth in Annville. Now that she has retired Laura enjoys quilting and acrylic painting using bright colors.

At age 84 she sometimes feels self-conscious of her abilities - in fact when she found out McKee Auto Supply wanted her to be their artist, her response was “really?!?” She was shocked and honored to have the opportunity. Laura was nervous because brush strokes can be difficult due to her hands shaking, but she got to work. She worked for 2 weeks wanting an artpiece that not only shows what McKee Auto Supply has to offer but she also wanted to paint something as tribute to all our county’s “shade tree mechanics”.

As a single mother working everyday she knew the struggle and necessity of having a reliable vehicle. The frustration you feel when a car breaks down, the hope that you can find the part you need some place local, and the gratitude of having a friend, family member, or neighbor that knows how to fix it. So the next time you stop in McKee Auto Supply (Part City) be sure to take the time to notice the round painting by the register and realize that you are seen, your frustration has been felt, and your hard work appreciated by your local artist, Laura McCowan.

With no art gallery in the county, the Jackson County Creatives have begun asking local businesses if they would like to “adopt” a local artist. The businesses are displaying at least one art piece from one of our county’s artists, not trying to sell said artpiece and not responsible if something happens to the artwork, only displaying. This allows Jackson County artists to have a place with foot traffic to showcase their work and shows the community that this business cares about our local talent. If you are a local artist or a local business that would like to participate visit our website - jacksoncountycreatives.org