Davis Johnson describes the show as “a series of portraits and '˜peopled landscapes' that explores the intricate pattern of black women reconciling with the arrangement of being the descendants of un-remembered queens, slaves, domestics, creators and matriarchs.'

“black lace. arrangements” is inspired in part by an excerpt from Nayyirah Waheed's poem salt, and each piece is a glimpse into a seemingly unceremonious act, such as going out, congregating on the corner, or standing in the WIC line, that shown together tell a larger story.

#NightAirCanBePoison uses acrylic paint and paper on a large 48” x 48” canvas. At a glance, viewers see two young women getting ready for a night out, situated in a messy room littered with blow dryers, fancy shoes, and jewelry. Closer inspection reveals quotes from newspaper articles on the Steubenville High School rape, a case that garnered nationwide attention and commentary, especially due to the role of social media in its development and documentation.

Well-known for vibrant, narrative paintings like these, examining shared connections, identity and historical occurrences through personal symbols, Davis Johnson navigates between academic influences and outsider art individuality. She is a signature member of Arkansas League of Artists, and her work can be seen in galleries and private collections throughout the United States. Davis Johnson currently splits her time between Little Rock, AR and Atlanta, GA, and more information is available at her website, www.angeladavisjohnson.com.

The exhibit is located on the main floor, Level 2, of Mullins Library and can be viewed any time Mullins Library is open to the public. Please refer to our schedule online, or call the exhibit coordinator, Martha Guirl-Phillips, at 479-575-6702 for more information. Prices for each piece are available upon request.

Find more information at http://www.angeladavisjohnson.com.