Critic's Pick — 'Good Grief: A Group Exploration'

There are 16 artists in this exhibition opening Saturday at Julia Martin Gallery, and all of them have navigated some aspect of grief. It’s an increasingly common occurrence, according to Martin herself: “These days, we are faced with it far more than can possibly be healthy,” she writes in the exhibition statement. But making art out of pain can be a tool for healing, and Martin has enlisted some of the strongest artists in her orbit to convene. “My hope is that, in sharing these works, we will come together and partake in the opportunity to befriend grief, get to know it, help each other carry it, use it, sit with it, or maybe release it.” Artists include Sam Dunson, who received a Scene Best of Nashville writers’ choice for Best Local Legend in 2025, and Noah Saterstrom, whose painting for the cover of Ann Patchett’s Whistler recently brought his work to a wider literary audience. As always, Julia Martin Gallery opening receptions are great parties, even during times of grieving. Be there on Saturday from 5 to 9 p.m. to find out why.

Nov. 7-28 at Julia Martin Gallery

444 Humphreys St.