Celebrating Culinary + Visual Arts
Join us on May 30, 2026 from 5:30-9PM for an unforgettable evening at our annual Firefly Supper, where the rich flavors of the South blend seamlessly with Mississippi’s artistic legacy. The night begins with a cocktail hour inside the museum, where guests can sip, mingle, and explore a beautifully curated Silent Auction featuring unique works by acclaimed Southern artists.
Then, step into the breathtaking Ocean Springs Community Center, where five renowned chefs: Alex Perry, Kumi Omori, Michael Paoletti, Stephanie Paoletti, and Austin Sumrall will craft an extraordinary four-course meal inspired by the rich aromas and flavors of Southern cuisine. Each course will be perfectly paired with fine wines sponsored by Mad Vines.
This special evening supports WAMA’s mission to foster curiosity and connection to the natural world through the art of Walter Anderson and kindred artists. Proceeds from Firefly Supper help sustain educational programming, preserve the museum’s collections, and bring world-class exhibitions to our community. Don’t miss this elegant celebration of food, art, and culture!
Meet the Chefs
Firefly Supper brings together a select group of stellar southern chefs who have curated a four-course menu to celebrate the culinary and visual arts of the Gulf South.
Alex Perry + Kumi Omori
Vestige chefs Alex Perry and Kumi Omori are known for their thoughtful approach to food that embraces seasonality, creativity, locality, and sustainability. Their cuisine combines Gulf Coast ingredients with Japanese flavors and techniques, resulting in an ever-changing menu that reflects both place and story. Vestige was recently recognized by the Michelin Guide, further highlighting the restaurant’s growing national reputation. They have also received multiple invitations to the Atlanta Food & Wine Festival and three nominations from the James Beard Foundation for Best Chef: South.
Austin Sumrall
Austin Sumrall, chef and owner of White Pillars and Siren Social Club, brings a wealth of expertise and creativity to the Gulf Coast culinary scene. Both restaurants were recently recognized in the Michelin Guide, further cementing his reputation as one of the region’s leading culinary voices. His accolades include two nominations from the James Beard Foundation for Southern Farm to Table Restaurant and Cocktail Lounge, a gold medal win on the Alex vs America cooking competition on Food Network, and the title of “King of American Seafood” at the Great American Seafood Cook-Off in New Orleans.
Michael & Stephanie Paoletti
Michael and Stephanie Paoletti showcase the best of the Gulf Coast’s ingredients and creativity through their ventures Butcher Baker, Food, Booze & Hiccups, and Sweet Enchantments. Their work blends an adventurous culinary philosophy with premium local ingredients and a deep commitment to the environment. The couple has earned recognition from the Mississippi Gulf Coast National Heritage Area Outpost Program for their sustainability practices and thoughtful sourcing. Known for immersive dining experiences such as their “Dinner on the Lot” series and for expanding a growing family of culinary concepts in Ocean Springs, the Paolettis continue to push the region’s food culture forward with creativity and community at the center.
Support the Arts
and Education
This event is held to support the Museum’s mission to empower lifelong curiosity and connection to the natural world through the art of Walter Anderson and kindred artists. Funds from the event will be used to support the Museum’s educational programming, preserve its collections, and put on world-class exhibitions celebrating the art and identity of the region.
If you would like to become a sponsor, please see our sponsorship levels below.
Thank you for Considering becoming a Sponsor!
All proceeds from this event will go toward exhibitions, collections preservation, and continuing education for all ages!
If you have any questions, please contact Angela at angela@walterandersonmuseum.org
