The Mississippi Arts Commission (MAC), Roster artist for the Craftsmen’s Guild of Mississippi and member of Mississippi Symphony Orchestra was chosen by the commission to represent Mississippi at the 94th annual December display, according to a press release. America Celebrates: Ornaments From All 50 States is a display of ornaments and trees from every state, territory, and District of Columbia. The walkway, called the Pathway of Peace, is made up of trees that surround the Ellipse National Christmas Tree. According to a press release, the annual display attracted more visitors than 250,000 last year. The annual ceremony will see President Barack Obama and First lady Michelle Obama officially lighting the National Christmas Tree. The National Park Service invited Mississippi Arts Commission in July to choose 12 ornaments to be displayed at the national display. The commission released that Maisel was selected for her exceptional artistic talent and commitment to the advancement of the arts in Mississippi. Malcolm White, executive director of the art commission, stated that Elaine “represents the best Mississippi’s creative spirit and inventive spirit.” “She demonstrates both joy and serious dedication to art making.” According to the press release, Maisel’s ornaments are Mississippi native birds. Each ornament contains a wing feather taken from a Mississippi eastern turkey. She has also painted twelve birds who frequent her neighborhood near Natchez Trace Parkway. Maisel uses Mississippi’s resources to create her art. She sources feathers from local turkey hunters, small family farms and parrot owners. The release stated that she preserves the natural beauty and enhances it with her design. “It is an honor to be part of this project. I hope that my painted feathers can bring awareness to the amazing wildlife that lives in our state and the National Park Service which maintains the NatchezTrace Parkway, which runs through our city. Since 2007, Maisel has been involved in the Mississippi Arts Commission. The Mississippi Artist Roster is a juried directory that features artists from the state who are known for their excellence in discipline and work quality. The release stated that she is also the State Coordinator for Carnegie Hall Link Up Program. This program pairs orchestras with students in grades 3 through 5. It teaches orchestral repertoire using a hands-on curriculum. Maisel’s involvement in MAC has allowed her to teach music and craft camps at the Mississippi Craftsmen’s Guild. In February, Maisel will be a visiting artist at the Mississippi Children’s Museum, where she will teach workshops in music, dance, and art._x000D