In residence

The makers
of Wapahani.

15 active artists — painters, ceramicists, fiber artists, photographers, beauty artists & so many more talented makers calling Wapahani home.

From oil and watercolor to clay, textiles, printmaking, jewelry, and lens-based work, our studios hold a wide range of practices under one roof. Browse below to meet the makers, see what they do, and find someone whose work speaks to you.

Artist spotlight

Natalie Smith

Mixed Media Painter

Natalie Smith is a Chicago-born, Indianapolis-based visual artist working primarily in acrylic painting and mixed media. Her work explores Black memory, womanhood, identity, beauty culture, spirituality, and ancestral storytelling. Through bold color, layered textures, fabric, lace, and sculptural elements, she creates emotionally expressive pieces that celebrate Black culture while reflecting personal and collective experiences.

Natalie earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from Robert Morris University in Chicago. Her work has been exhibited in Indianapolis and Chicago, including Gallery 317, RAW Artists, the Ravenswood Art Walk, and Wapahani Art Center. She presented her first solo exhibition in Chicago in 2019 and later debuted her Indianapolis solo exhibition, Soul Reflections, at Gallery 317 in April 2026.

Her artistic practice continues to evolve through storytelling, experimentation, and her commitment to creating work that encourages viewers to see themselves, their history, and their spirit reflected in art.

See Natalie Smith's latest works →

The full roster