- From the rhythm of the music created here to the natural beauty of our parks and greenways, there is a spirit of connection, celebration, and resilience at the core of Nashville’s identity. This city is a dynamic place where history is created and preserved, where innovation thrives alongside tradition, and where Nashvillians—old and new—are the beating pulse of a thriving and changing city.
The Soundwaves Gallery: THE HE(ART) OF NASHVILLE is a celebration of place, people, stories, and community spirit at the core of Nashville’s identity as a uniquely creative city. Meet the artists!
Omari Booker- Omari Booker, multidisciplinary artist based in Nashville, TN and Los Angeles, CA, began his journey as an artist his senior year of high school at Montgomery Bell Academy. While attending Belmont University, Omari studied Mathematics and other more traditional curricula before earning his B.S. in Graphic Design from Tennessee State University.
Oil paintings are Omari’s predominant medium. Murals have also become a consistent part of his creative practice. Storytelling in the form of poetry, prose, and children’s books are also creative outlets.
- Omari takes a process-oriented approach to art making. The philosophy that undergirds Omari’s work is FREEDOM THROUGH ART and he aspires to create work that communicates to his audience their unique and intrinsic ability to be free.
- Artwork: Alex and Ash, Oil on Canvas
- “Alex Lockwood and Ash Ashbury are vital members of the North Nashville art community. In this scene they are playfully sitting on a beautiful sculpture by Jenna VanFleteren in Elephant Gallery. Alex opened Elephant Gallery around 2016 and has exhibited emerging and established artists ever since.”
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Jennifer Haston
- Jennifer Haston is the Visual Arts Program Coordinator at Friends Life Community (FLC), an organization that provides opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities to grow, develop, and be active members of the community. Through FLC’s person-driven program, the artists are encouraged to explore their creativity and share their work with others.
- Artwork: Love Story, Mixed Media on Canvas
“A multi-media painting that celebrates the heart of Nashville through the light and color of individuality and community. The silhouettes, defined by light, represent the diverse identities that make up our collective strength. Printed on sheet music titled “Love Song,” the piece embodies resilience and unity, as the figures dance across the canvas in harmony, their vibrant colors symbolizing creativity, passion, and perseverance.The artwork reflects how we, as friends, staff, and neighbors, support and uplift one another, working together to overcome obstacles and celebrate our shared humanity. “Love Song” is a visual anthem to Nashville—showing that, even in the face of adversity, we rise together, united in love and strength.”
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This unique exhibition features 44 artworks by 44 local artists selected by the Nashville Soccer Club and the Arts & Business Council in collaboration with a three-person curatorial committee comprised of local arts leaders Michael J. McBride, Artist, Illustrator, Printmaker, Painter, and Instructor of Art at Tennessee State University; Amanda H. Hellman, Director of the Vanderbilt University Museum of Art; and Michael Mitchell (aka mikewindy), Artist and Art Education Coordinator at Tennessee State University.
The artwork will remain on display in the Soundwaves Gallery at GEODIS Park through the end of the Nashville SC 2025 Season.
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