Throughout 2026, the Eastside Branch of the Lexington Public Library will be home to a yearlong, revolving celebration of vibrant, creative and inspiring art. In partnership with ArtHouse Kentucky, a non-profit retail art gallery operated by Art Inc Kentucky and Community Ventures, the Eastside Branch’s art corridor will be transformed into a dynamic showcase of works created by established and emerging artists from across the Commonwealth.
Through this project, ArtHouse Kentucky hopes to expose more eyes to their artists’ work, creating opportunities for potential sales and commissions. From a community perspective, the changing exhibits provide a perfect opportunity for people to get up close and personal with original, thought-provoking pieces and to learn more about the artists that produce it. Both organizations are hopeful that the next generation of artists will be inspired to choose a medium and make their voices heard.
Collective Commitment to Enriching Lives
Behind this initiative are Doug Tattershall, Community Arts Coordinator for the Lexington Public Library, and Eastside Branch leadership—manager Ashley Sipple-McGraw and assistant manager Jennifer Murphy working closely with Mark Johnson, president of Art Inc. Kentucky.
Tattershall notes that Lexington’s Central library branch downtown is a regular stop on LexArts’ bi-monthly Gallery Hop. Tattershall and Johnson have collaborated on successful projects in the past, so it made perfect sense to put together a longer-running show that would change monthly.
Spotlighting Heritage, Celebrating Accomplishment
Throughout the year, the gallery will rotate through various Kentucky creatives. The series kicked off in January with an eclectic mix of works from a variety of ArtHouse Kentucky-affiliated artists, as a preview of the talent to be revealed month-by-month as the year unfolds.
February brings a powerful exhibit, spotlighting artists LaNora Long, Frank X Walker, Mark Lenn Johnson and LaVon Van Williams, Jr. And others whose work honors heritage, resilience and innovation, offering perspectives that resonate far beyond their chosen mediums.
In March, the gallery exhibit coincides with one of Kentucky’s most prestigious arts events—the Kentucky Crafted Market taking place March 7-9 at the Kentucky Horse Park’s Alltech Arena, celebrating ArtHouse Kentucky’s artisans who have successfully achieved Kentucky Crafted status, a renowned mark of excellence in artistry and craftsmanship.
The Lexington Public Library and Art Inc. Kentucky both believe artists of vastly different backgrounds and varying perspectives can open the door for conversations that lead to connections, understanding, and ultimately break down barriers and bring people together.
Tattershall puts it this way: “This partnership affirms what we at the Lexington Public Library believe: that showcasing the arts and supporting artists is an investment in community, learning, and the creative spirit that binds us all together.”
Johnson agrees and adds, “We are deeply grateful to the Lexington Public Library for opening their doors to ArtHouse Kentucky and our artists and for creating space for meaningful exhibitions this year at the Eastside Branch.
“When art is welcomed into shared, public spaces, it becomes part of everyday life—it meets people where they are and invites curiosity, reflection, and, most importantly, connections—something very much needed these days.”
A standing invitation beckons: Whether you’re an artist looking for new inspiration, a budding enthusiast seeking to learn more or a dyed-in-the-wool art aficionado eager to explore and connect with local or regional talent, this is your opportunity to discover, celebrate, and support Kentucky art and those who produce it.
Visit the Eastside Branch gallery to experience the fascinating stories, bold, vibrant colors and revolutionary ideas that make Kentucky’s creative tapestry so rich and compelling.
Kentucky creatives looking for business training, mentorship, or a place to create and sell art can visit ArtHouse Kentucky or Art Inc. Kentucky, or contact Mark Lenn Johnson at 859-231-0054 ext. 1023, for more information.
