Artist Spotlight – Cora King & King Gallery

Local art shapes the community, and in turn, the community shapes local art. Invaluable to a vibrant city, art offers a wordless commentary on life, an expression that crosses all boundaries, to be received uniquely by each person who takes the time to look and see. And, in seeing, each person leaves a little bit different than when they arrived.

King Gallery is the newest addition to the colorful, magical shops of women-owned businesses that are revitalizing the once-sleepy neighborhood across from Jordan High School.

Owned by local artist Cora King, King Gallery showcases her unique pieces and offers a space for the community to gather and spend time immersing themselves in her creations.

With a diverse background in music, event management and marketing, Cora went on to manage art studios as she learned to navigate the behind-the-scenes. In lue of her position, she was always involved in extracurricular events that grew the arts community, whether it be film, photography, or poetry.

Throughout the years, her renaissance spirit continued to grow a burning spark that would lead her to get serious about making her own visual art.

As she continued to immerse herself in the art world through meeting fellow creatives, Cora was encouraged in how expansive the art scene in Columbus was. “There’s so much talent here,” Cora says. Finding herself surrounded by other creative people, she was inspired to follow her vision and add her creative expression to the local art scene.

“I realized anything was possible when the pandemic hit. That’s when I started to create full time.”

Cora began showing her work in 2018. She held her first solo show in December 2021. The vacant building on Howard Avenue, was the very spot that, unbeknownst to Cora at the time, would become King Gallery.

Though opening a Gallery wasn’t initially Cora’s plan, the idea evolved slowly as she realized the potential, and eventually decided to take the leap and make the building a place to showcase not only her work but also the work of others. “Through months of renovations it is now a place where art can be highlighted and celebrated,” Cora says. “I’m also excited to be a part of this area’s activation.” Cora states in regards to the group of entrepreneurs that have based their businesses in the Jordan Johnson neighborhood.

Cora’s work lines the walls as if they were always intended. The building seems happy, alive and ready to host its new purpose.

Blending light and color to convey mood and the movement of emotion, Cora uses Expressionism most often in her work, a genre that feels right to her. “It’s what comes natural to me,” she explains. Focusing less on exact form, and more on feeling, Cora’s art invites one to be free within their own experience of the work. To be whatever that means, to them.

“Because showing art is such a vulnerable position to be in, expressionism, being the epitome of subjective perspective, gives me confidence in remembering that there is nothing right or wrong about art. It is a place of freedom. This is one of my mantras, and it really helps combat anxiety and catch myself from over thinking,” Cora explains. For her, it’s more than a genre – it’s a lifestyle. It challenges perfectionism and blends feelings. “Her work will stand out in the landscape of what’s already existing, because she’s so true to her aesthetic,” Cora’s friend and fellow artist Ben Redding says.

Finding a permanent place in the community, Cora’s art plays a vital role in the story of our city that will be told for years to come. “Art shapes the community by giving it vibrancy, youth, life, and longevity.” Cora says. “It’s magic, really. It gives us a reason to gather together, celebrate, and talk about life.” She believes in the relevance of art in the community, because everything she produces comes from experience, a dream, or a memory, and, she says, “I don’t think there’s anything more relevant than the human experience.”

As for future plans, Cora looks forward to the growth of the Gallery unfolding. “I am so grateful to get to offer Columbus another expansion of the art community,” Cora says.

The gallery hosts workshops, unique events, and holds pieces from other local and regional makers that compliment the aesthetic of her art.

Look for upcoming workshops that focus on building confidence, the foundations of art in nature, and rhythm and movement in art. In addition she currently holds small group, weekly private lessons for children.

King Gallery is located at 3211 Howard Avenue in Columbus. The gallery is open from 11:00 am – 4:00 pm Wednesdays through Saturdays.

By Natalie Downey