Belhaven to Present “Light Show Demo” Featuring Art, Film, and Live Music

JACKSON, Miss. (October 21, 2026) – Belhaven University will present “Light Show Demo,” featuring works by Robby Piantanida, with a masterclass, live musical improvisation, and an opening reception scheduled for October 30–31.

The events include “Music Improv” on Friday, October 30, from 5:30–6:30 p.m. in the Bitsy Irby Gallery inside the Bitsy Irby Visual Art and Dance Center. Natural States will perform a live improvised score as guests view a special selection of episodes from Ambient Film, the Emmy-nominated immersive relaxation show airing on PBS.

Robby Piantanida is an Emmy Award-winning filmmaker and multidisciplinary artist who graduated from Belhaven University in 2009 with a degree in visual arts. His cinematography credits include Ambient Film, How Music Got Free, WZZQ the Movie, and Dogleg.

"It’s especially meaningful to welcome Robby back to the place where he began developing his artistic voice," said Nate Theisen, Chair of the Art + Design Department. "Sharing his work and process with today’s students offers encouragement as they begin to imagine where their own ideas might take them."

The performance will bring sound and moving images together in a shared gallery experience, inviting guests to explore how spontaneous musical expression interacts with the films’ visual atmosphere.

A “Light Show Demo” masterclass is also scheduled for October 30, from 10 a.m.–4 p.m. An opening reception featuring Piantanida’s works will follow on Saturday, October 31, from 2–4 p.m.

Together, the events offer opportunities to experience the connections among visual art, film, light, and live music.