Justin Riddick, a Talladega College junior fine arts major, is stepping into the regional arts spotlight this fall. Riddick has been selected as a featured artist in the 2026 Spotlight on Local Arts Exhibit. The exhibition, which opened September 15, runs through October 30, 2026 at the Jemison Carnegie Heritage Hall Museum and Art Center, 200 South Street East in Talladega.
The Spotlight on Local Arts Exhibit marks the first time Riddick has had his work showcased in a museum. “I couldn't be more grateful for the opportunity to showcase my work and what I've learned through my fine arts coursework,” said Riddick. “The program helps me understand art on a deeper level, its elements and principles, learn different art media (ceramics, painting, sculpture, drawing, and design), and gain experience I can carry into my aspiring career as an architect and comic book illustrator.”
"I am immensely proud of Justin, one of our best and brightest fine arts majors,” said Tamalyn Peterson, Ph.D., dean of the School of Humanities and Fine Arts. “His participation in this exhibition is well-earned and echoes his dedication to the arts, to Talladega College, and to the community at large.”
The juried showcase celebrates the community's rich creativity and artistic diversity, bringing together emerging student talent alongside seasoned professional artists. In addition to the juried awards, the public can vote for the People’s Choice Award through Heritage Hall’s website and social media channels.
A native of Atlanta, Riddick wants to be an architect who designs more affordable, stylish, and eco-friendly homes to reduce homelessness and environmental pollution. His goal is to create a thriving environment for struggling families and children. Riddick’s work would incorporate local farming and building on renewable resources such as solar, hydro and wind energy to prevent pollution, maintain a clean environment, and provide shelter and food for people in need. Riddick also wants to pursue comic book illustration to inspire African American youth, ignite their creative spark, and inspire servant leadership.
As a member of the Talladega College Choir, Riddick had the once-in-a-lifetime chance to perform with his peers in Carnegie Hall in April of 2026.
A special Awards Presentation and Reception will take place on Thursday, October 15, 5-7 p.m., offering community members a chance to celebrate Riddick and his fellow artists in person.
Beaming with pride, Peterson sees Riddick’s work as an extension of a proud tradition. “Justin's work extends the legacy of innovative, academic, and artistic distinction within the School of Humanities and Fine Arts, where we remain boldly reimagined and unapologetically excellent. Recognitions such as this further highlight the transformation that takes place here at Talladega College through individualized mentorship and professional learning opportunities that our faculty and staff cultivate daily. Justin's talents are many, and we are elated that he has been selected to showcase his art on this broader artistic stage."
For more information on Riddick’s work and the 2026 Spotlight on Local Arts Exhibit, go to heritagehallmuseum.org.
