The Watkins College of Art invites the public to enjoy gallery exhibitions and related programming. A current list of Events & Exhibitions can be found here, and admission is always free.
Upcoming Events
Exhibition Schedule
Beyond the Absent: Rising in Truth, Living the Legacy
January 05 – February 20, 2026
Reception: February 05 from 4-6 pm
Leu Gallery in the Lila D. Bunch Library
Beyond the Absent: Rising in Truth, Living the Legacy is an immersive exhibition that challenges stereotypes about Black fatherhood, highlighting stories of love, leadership, and legacy. Through storytelling and visuals, it uplifts the truth of Black fathers who are present—nurturing families, shaping communities, and building futures. It celebrates strength, visibility, and impact—showing what’s always been there, not what’s missing.
Here / Now: New Faculty Exhibition
January 07 – February 13
Reception: January 22 from 4:30-6pm
Gallery 121 in the Leu Center for the Visual Arts
Here / Now welcomes three new faculty members to the Watkins College of Art: Jack Lathom, Associate Professor of Photography; Lauren Lowen, Professor of Practice in Illustration; and LaKesha Lee, Faculty Fellow in Art. Introducing their distinct practices—ranging from lens-based inquiry to expressive illustration and ceramic work— this exhibit offers a glimpse into the creative voices newly rooted in our community. As artists and educators, their work reflects the various perspectives, passions, and pedagogies they bring to Watkins.
The Power in Art | Daybreak Arts, Friends Life Community, & HAPI, Inc.
January 07 – February 12
Closing Reception: February 12 from 4:30-6pm
Leu Center for the Visual Arts Lobby
Discover the transformative potential of art! Power in Art is an inspiring exhibit featuring the works of artists from Daybreak Arts, Friends Life Community, and HAPI, Inc. These inspiring organizations elevate the diverse talents and personal stories of artists who use their creativity to overcome challenges, foster community, and advocate for social change. Join us in celebrating the resilience, innovation, and boundless spirit of these incredible artists, and witness firsthand how art can inspire, empower, and connect us all.
Upcoming Exhibitions
March 02 – April 03
Watkins Awards Gala: March 26 from 4:30-6pm
Gallery 121 and the Leu Center for the Visual Arts Lobby
The Watkins College of Art and Kappa Pi student organization presents the professionally juried Annual Student Exhibition. Join us in celebrating student success with a vibrant showcase of outstanding work from across all programs and levels of study!
March 09 – May 22, 2026
Reception: March 19 from 4-6 pm
Leu Gallery
Practice + Persistence celebrates the enduring creativity of MFA alumni from the Watkins College of Art at Belmont University. Interdisciplinary in scope, it highlights the many ways these artists engage with contemporary ideas, materials, and forms. Collectively, the works embody both individual inquiry and the shared spirit of experimentation that defines the MFA program.
April 13 – May 08
Watkins Design & Art Crawl: April 21 from 5-7pm
Gallery 121 in the Leu Center for the Visual Arts
The Watkins College of Art at Belmont University proudly presents its annual exhibition of Fine Art senior thesis projects, celebrating the creative achievements of graduating students. The exhibition culminates in a reception featuring the presentation of senior design portfolios.
The Watkins College of Art invites the community to enjoy exhibitions and related programming. All galleries are free and open to the public. Sign up to receive the monthly WCA Gallery Newsletter and stay up to date on the latest open programming. You can also follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
Do you have questions about our galleries? Please reach out via email to Katie Mitchell, Director of Galleries & Programming.
Galleries
The Watkins College of Art operates four art galleries in Nashville that promote the exhibition of current student, faculty, alumni, and contemporary artists.