A Legacy of Art and Community: The Northingtons of Studio #S110 at The Goat Farm Arts Center
Nestled in the creative haven of The Goat Farm Arts Center, Studio #S110 is a treasure trove of artistry and storytelling. Home to the extraordinary mother-daughter duo, Donna Jones Northington and Marie Northington, the studio is a testament to the power of art to connect, heal, and inspire. Individually, their work speaks volumes, yet together, they create a symphony of creativity that enriches both the local art scene and the broader community.
The Northingtons embody the spirit of community, blending their unique voices and artistic styles to craft work that is deeply personal yet universally resonant. Their journey is one of passion, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to their craft, inviting us to experience the world through their eyes and hearts.
Donna Jones Northington: A Journey into the Soul and the Universe
Donna Jones Northington is a woman of many dimensions—artist, trailblazer, and community advocate. Her art reflects a deeply spiritual journey that examines the duality of human existence. As we spoke today, it became clear that Donna views her work as a bridge, connecting her own experiences as a multicultural woman in America to the greater collective consciousness. She described her creative process with an eloquence that mirrors the sophistication of her art.
Her latest series, Heartmospheric, left an indelible impression on me. It is an exploration of how the soul connects to the greater consciousness, a concept that resonated deeply as I reflected on my own spiritual journey. Donna explained that through her mixed media creations, she strives to balance the natural and built worlds. Her use of elements like the sky, cosmos, and architecture creates a visual language that encourages viewers to ascend to higher levels of self-awareness.
Beyond her artistic endeavors, Donna’s legacy is steeped in community and advocacy. Having worked in media and entertainment for over two decades, she is no stranger to leadership. Her involvement with organizations like the National Black Arts Festival and the Museum of Contemporary Art Georgia highlights her commitment to fostering spaces for artists to thrive. Today, Donna’s work feels like a culmination of her life’s experiences—a harmonious blend of art, intellect, and spirituality.
Marie Northington: Capturing Memory, Emotion, and the Ephemeral
While Donna’s art draws from the cosmos, her daughter Marie Northington’s work is grounded in the tangible and tactile. As an experimental film photographer and potter, Marie approaches her craft with an openness to imperfection. Her photography reimagines the world in ways that push boundaries, whether it’s through redscale techniques or capturing landscapes and cultures from Japan, Morocco, Greece, Costa Rica, and Hawaii. As we spoke, Marie’s passion for storytelling became evident. She sees her work as a dance between intention and chance, allowing each piece to unfold organically.
Her pottery is just as captivating. Marie described the process of working with clay as one of discovery—embracing unpredictability to create pieces imbued with depth and character. There is beauty in the unexpected, she explained, whether it’s a test shot in her photography or an unplanned detail in her pottery. Each piece becomes a story, a moment captured in time, and an invitation for the viewer to explore their own connection to memory and emotion.
What stood out most in our conversation was her innovative spirit. Marie’s creative pursuits extend beyond the studio, reflecting her professional expertise in program management and her dedication to fostering diverse and inclusive environments. Her commitment to collaboration and her ability to draw inspiration from diverse sources make her a dynamic force in both the art world and the community.
A Studio That Embodies Community
Together, Donna and Marie have created a sanctuary of creativity at Studio #S110. Their work is not just about self-expression; it is about connection. They see art as a means to foster dialogue, challenge perceptions, and build bridges across generations and cultures. As a mother and daughter, they share an undeniable synergy, but it’s their individuality that truly sets them apart.
Donna’s sophisticated exploration of identity and consciousness pairs seamlessly with Marie’s tactile and experimental approach to art. Together, they offer a space where visitors can reflect, explore, and find inspiration. Their studio is more than an art space—it’s a beacon of community and collaboration, welcoming anyone who steps through the door to engage in meaningful conversations about life, art, and everything in between.
Artist Statements
Donna Jones Northington
“My work expresses a duality; first of a human being on earth connected to others and the greater universe through a collective consciousness. And second as a multicultural woman living in America navigating between the natural world and the built world. Mixed media elements representing the sky, atmosphere, cosmos, plants, and architectural elements combine to depict this reality.”
Marie Northington
“My art explores the connection between memory, emotion, and the ephemeral. Embracing the imperfections and unpredictability of analog processes and the tactile nature of clay, I allow each piece to unfold with its own story—a delicate balance of creative intent and chance. Through experimental film photography, I transform familiar elements of the world into reimagined and intriguing interpretations. In my pottery, I explore the process of creation, where the unplanned and unexpected often lead to pieces with character and depth. In both my photography and pottery, there is beauty in the unexpected—whether in a test shot or an unplanned element that adds character.”
A Legacy of Inspiration
Donna and Marie Northington represent what is possible when art and community intertwine. Their studio is a testament to the power of collaboration and the importance of honoring individuality. They remind us that art is not just about the finished piece; it is about the journey, the stories, and the connections we make along the way.
For those seeking inspiration, Northington Studios LLC at The Goat Farm Arts Center is a must-visit. Step into Studio #S110, and you’ll find not just art, but a celebration of life, culture, and the unyielding human spirit.
Heartmospheric – “It’s about how your Soul connects to the Greater Consciousness”
