This Meet the Urbaanite is part of a special series in partnership with the William Edmondson Arts + Culture Festival
James Threalkill is an acclaimed artist in Nashville, with his work gracing galleries and exhibitions across the world. A graduate of Vanderbilt University with a B.A. in Fine Arts, James would go on to create impactful programs teaching arts to the youth in Edgehill. He has received several awards for his murals along with traveling to South Africa to complete a mural project where he met the late President Nelson Mandela. Learn more about James!
James Threalkill
Company: James Threalkill Arts
Hometown: Nashville, TN
Title: Artist
How many years have you been in Nashville? I’ve lived in Nashville for 68 years, which included graduating from East Nashville High School and attending Vanderbilt University on a football scholarship to play as a wide receiver.
Tell us what you’re creating in Nashville: I’m creating art that highlights, uplifts, and inspires our community. It’s important to me as an artist to use my gift to celebrate the beauty, essence, and profound historical aspects of our cultural heritage. Even more significantly, I create to motivate and inspire our youth to excel and believe in their innate ability to succeed in life.
What inspires you? I’m inspired by life in general as I observe people in their everyday lives, the beauty of nature and our environment, and the exceptional talents of creative individuals.
Coffee, Lunch, brunch or happy hour: Brunch at Shugga Hi Bakery and Café, operated by fellow East High School alum Kathy Leslie at 1000 Dickerson Pike, Nashville, TN 37207. Truly a gem among the businesses in East Nashville.
Describe Nashville in 3 Words: Evolution of Soul
Favorite Nashville musician, singer or artist? Singers Mark & Joey Kibble, William Davenport, and visual artists Michael Mucker and Sam Dunson.
What is your favorite Nashville spot you are digging right now?
The Jefferson Street Sound Museum and Woodcuts Gallery.
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