Tashema Davis Exhibit at Thyen-Clark Cultural Center beginning May 7

OPENING RECEPTION & GALLERY TALK: Thursday, May 7th, 2026, from 5-7 pm *ALSO, Thursday, June 4th and July 2nd, 2026, from 5-7pm

Jasper Arts is pleased to present the work of Marion, IN artist, Tashema Davis for the months of May, June, and July 2026 at the Thyen-Clark Cultural Center.

The solo exhibition titled ‘Talitha Cumi’ features original, oil and acrylic paintings.

“Ever since I can remember, I’ve been captivated by vibrant, expressive colors,” Davis said. “When words fail me, color has a way of communicating. Its expressive nature brings me comfort. Initially, portraits posed a significant challenge for me. I dedicated extensive time and effort to practice and eventually mastered the skill. Now, I find joy in painting faces, particularly brown ones, for various reasons.”

“Faces are universally relatable. We are naturally drawn to our caregivers’ faces from infancy, where we begin to express our emotions, love, and fears. My artistic goal is to spread joy and showcase the beauty of brown faces,” Davis continued.

Davis has been creating works of art for her personal enjoyment and enhancing her skills continuously since graduate school. Within the past two years, she has started creating more commissioned pieces for close friends and family.

Davis grew up in the projects of Gary, Indiana, where she developed a genuine appreciation for her surroundings and early life experiences. Much of her work reflects memories of home and childhood.

In 2000, Davis left Gary to attend Ball State University, where she initially pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Interior Design. After a few months, ahe realized that path was not her passion and later returned to Ball State for graduate studies. She earned a Master’s degree in art along with a license to teach art in 2010.

Since 2011, Davis has been teaching a variety of art courses at Marion High School in Marion, Indiana, where she has found a deep passion for education. In addition to teaching, she sponsors the school’s art club, serves on the advisory board for the Art and Writing Scholastics at the Fort Wayne Museum of Art, works as a book illustrator, and participates in community beautification projects.

“The ultimate purpose for my art is to be an expression of all things beautiful and meaningful in life. I believe art transcends the typical and doesn’t always dwell in the realm of just color, line, and form. Art is also composed of higher thought, in the divine commission to help others become better, and to spread peace,” said Davis.

Davis will join us for a Gallery Talk at The First Thursday Opening Reception on Thursday, May 7th, from 5 to 7 p.m. Free event and open to the public.

A special thank you to Kimball Electronics for their support in bringing this exhibit to Jasper.