Brittney Rollins
Gadsden County News Service
The Gadsden Arts Center & Museum is honored to present James Thigpen: A Painter’s Journey, on view through December 13. Born and raised in Quincy, Florida, Thigpen brings a lifetime of experiences as a resident, artist, and art teacher to his paintings, reflected in the stories they tell.
Through oil and acrylics, Thigpen shares an engaging visual narrative from decades of teaching, community involvement, and quiet observation of his surroundings. His paintings reflect local scenery with realism and beauty, offering glimpses of Gadsden County and beyond, with select works inspired by his travels to Alaska and other regions.
After graduating with a degree in art in 1965, Thigpen taught art in Jacksonville, Quincy, and Fort Lauderdale public schools before transitioning to school administration in Broward County. When he returned to Gadsden County in the early 2000s, Thigpen rekindled his passion for painting and became actively involved with the Gadsden Arts Center & Museum, serving on its Board of Directors and contributing to exhibitions. His work is now represented in the museum’s permanent collection.
This exhibition, found in the museum’s Munroe Family Community Gallery, celebrates Thigpen’s deep connection to the region, capturing everyday subjects with honesty and care.
James Thigpen: A Painter’s Journey is on view at the Gadsden Arts Center & Museum through December 13, 2025. Gadsden Arts is located at 13 N. Madison Street in Quincy, and open to the public Tuesdays–Saturdays, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Admission: Free for members and children 17 and under; $5 for non-member adults; $3 for non-member students. Every Saturday is a free Family Day for any family with children. For more information, visit www.gadsdenarts.org.
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