Thank You Please Come Again

Client: Mississippi Arts + Entertainment Experience

Exhibition on view February 22–May 24, 2025

Thank You Please Come Again is an exhibition of twenty-five photographs made by Kate Medley at local quick stops across the South. Symmetry worked closely with Medley to curate this selection specifically for the MAX from the larger series featured in her 2023 publication by the same name. The photographs tell stories of diverse people—families, immigrants, farmers, chefs, proprietors, and customers—and places they have created and frequent. Notes from the photographer in extended labels expand on the visual stories, and in the “Food Stores + Food Stories” space visitors are invited to share their own stories. Fonts and colors are inspired by the publication design but customized for use at the MAX. A large-scale title wall greets MAX visitors in the building’s rotunda, drawing attention to the exhibition gallery and directing them to the entry door, which is complete with welcome language and open hours reminiscent of gas station signage. Words from Medley, writer Kiese Laymon, and people from the photographs interrupt the flow of imagery to provide perspective, and ceiling-mounted speakers deliver ambient audio from certain locations from the photographs. The photographs, text, audio, and accompanying activities work together to share the stories of diverse Southern communities.