Sheryl Sallie: The Goddesses Collection

May 2-30, 2025
Sheryl Sallie: The Goddesses Collection
Opening reception: Friday, May 2, 5:00-9:00 PM
Gallery hours: Mon-Fri 9-5; Sat (May 3 and 10 only), 10-1. Closed on Mon May 26 for the holiday.
Additional hours: Thu May 8, 5-7 PM (Gallery 1010 opening)

Sheryl
Artist, poet, animal lover
Sibling of Goddesses everywhere
Who fears knowing the unknown
Who needs to embrace tranquility
Who gives magical words of encouragement
Who would like to feel joyful raindrops covering the world
Resident of planet Earth
Sallie

Sheryl was born and raised in East Knoxville. She holds a bachelor’s degree in education from Knoxville College and a master’s degree in educational psychology from the University of Tennessee. She was a teacher in the Knoxville City School System and the Knox County School System. After 35 years of teaching, she retired in 2004. After retirement, she wanted to try something new. So began her art journey. After several tries at different art forms, she chose mixed media because it was a natural fit for her.

She is a poet who has been honored in several poetry contests including winning first place  in the Tennessee  Writers Alliance Poetry Competition in which our own Nikki Giovanni was the final judge.

Some of Sheryl’s art has been exhibited at the Fountain City Art Center, the Oak Ridge Art Center, and the Emporium. She lives in Karns with her husband Reginald.

I picked this collection to highlight some of my favorite pieces and to introduce some new pieces. Mixed media is ideal for me because it allows me to express myself by using everyday objects in extraordinary ways. I use layers of collage, paint, image transfers, and found objects to create texture and substance in my art. Presently, I am adding works to a group of paintings depicting Goddesses, strong beautiful women as I see them. Goddesses exist everywhere women gather. I hope the viewers will see something that brings joy to them and will touch something deep inside of them in some way.

Instagram @sheryl_j_sallie