Painting classes offer Marion residents creativity, connection and community

For some Marion residents, a blank canvas can be more than just a place to paint. It can be a chance to relax, learn something new and connect with others in the community.

Local artist and eighth-grade art teacher Tashema Davis hosted a Community Choice painting class Wednesday at her East 4th Street studio. The class was designed to bring community members together through art, with participants painting a picture chosen through a vote on social media.

Davis said she created the Community Choice classes to give people an opportunity to come together, create something and meet other members of the community. She guides participants through each step of the painting, starting with a blank canvas and allowing them to create the finished piece without a pre-drawn outline.

“I try to break it down so that everyone feels comfortable and confident,” Davis said.

Davis ran Echo Gallery on Washington Street for five years before closing the studio to focus on her family and mental health. Her current studio has been open for a few months, making Wednesday’s class the first Community Choice painting event since reopening.

For attendees, the classes provide more than an opportunity to learn how to paint.

Leslie Holt, who has attended Davis’ classes since her Echo Gallery days, said she enjoys Davis’ instruction and the opportunity to learn something new at this stage in her life.

“I think anytime you can have a positive place to come, feel welcomed and appreciate the experience of other people is important,” Holt said.

Holt added that she believes residents need to support local businesses and activities if they want meaningful opportunities to remain in the community.

Tina Goodpaster, who previously worked in community and economic development, said she has watched Marion’s arts community develop over the years. She believes the arts are important to the vitality of the community and said Davis’ work adds “excitement, joy and beauty” to downtown Marion.

Michelle Ferguson, another longtime attendee, said she considers Davis’ classes her “happy place.” She described painting as relaxing and therapeutic and said the affordability of the classes makes them accessible to more people.

Davis said her classes are open to everyone, regardless of age or artistic experience.

“If you can hold a paintbrush, then you are more than welcome to come and join us,” Davis said.

For Davis, the goal of her Community Choice events extends beyond creating a painting. She said she hopes her studio can be a place where people can create, belong, heal and continue building connections within the Marion community.