“This Is Us” Art Exhibit Highlights the Work of 12 Black Artists

Twelve local and regional black artists will showcase their work in an exhibit called “This is Us” at College of Saint Mary’s Hillmer Art Gallery. This year’s exhibit features a mix of paintings, photography, mixed media, and ceramics. Artwork will be on display Jan. 23 through March 3, with a reception planned from 5-7 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 23.

Over the years, “This is Us” has become a beloved tradition within the community. Originally founded six years ago by Jeff Spencer, CSM associate professor of art and director of Hillmer Art Gallery, and his former student, Omaha artist Patty Talbert, the exhibit has grown beyond their initial vision. This year marks the third biennial installment of “This is Us,” continuing its legacy of celebrating artistic excellence.

Talbert explains that all the artists featured in the exhibit are invited to participate and represent various stages of the artistic journey. For some, this marks their debut exhibition, while others have been showcasing their work for over 15 years.

“The proudest part of this exhibit is each artist can only participate once,” Talbert says. “So, each biennial has a new group of artists. This shows me that we are making progress because in Omaha 15-plus years ago, you couldn’t find 12 Black artists to be in one exhibit together. I appreciate CSM and the Hillmer Art Gallery for providing us this space.”

Artists who will show their work include Jahmai Brown, Shawntae Brown, George Garrett III, Aspen Monet Laboy, Drejon Parrott (Jill), Lily Stennis-Vinson, Patty Talbert, Avry Victor, Brittany Whitfield, Abiola Kosoko, Natoya Brodhal, and Anniquearlean.

The exhibit is free and open to the public.