By: Jenni Muheim & Hanna Nakano
On the tranquil grounds of the Davis Cemetery, art exhibitions bring an infusion of warmth, vibrancy, and creativity.
Nestled within the serene 27-acre property lies Gallery 1855, a quaint building surrounded by greenery. The gallery opened in 2010 and is named after the cemetery’s first recorded burial.
“Infusing art into public spaces can be seen all over our community and is important in so many ways,” Davis Cemetery District and Arboretum Assistant Superintendent Judy Fisher told The Dirt. “I believe it helps to beautify spaces and surroundings; it strengthens community, and supports mental health.”
Each month, a local artist is invited to hang their work on the gallery walls. The selection process prioritizes artists from the California Special District, including Davis, Clarksburg, and West Sacramento. Since opening the gallery doors, Fisher said more than 125 artists have exhibited at Gallery 1855.
“The goal of Gallery 1855 is to utilize the otherwise blank walls of our administrative office to create a commission free space for local artists to display their art, host artist receptions, and sell their work if they choose to do so,” Fisher said. “Having the gallery at the cemetery brings community members to the grounds and provides the opportunity to learn about the cemetery, which was named a historical site by Davis City Council in 1985.”
The artwork displayed is very intentional and cemetery guests are the first priority, according to Fisher. The artwork aims to comfort and uplift.
“We hear that art helps bring warmth to our office and something to admire during a difficult time,” Fisher said.
The intricate yet minimalist line art of artist Brenyanna Harris-Hill was in the spotlight this Spring. She is a UC Irvine graduate with a degree in Psychology & Social Behavior, emphasizing on child development. She uses those teachings to educate children about mental health with art therapy.
Harris-Hill’s work celebrates beauty, strength, and resilience, drawing inspiration from powerful women of diverse backgrounds and stories. Her art aims to capture the unique experiences of women through colorful brushstrokes.
Gallery 1855 is a part of the Davis Cemetery District’s larger plan to develop a broader sense of the Cemetery as a public space with multiple uses. Through the venue, organizers host a handful of public events each year, including a Memorial Day service, a Día de Muertos celebration, a Veterans Day service, and Infant/Child Death Remembrance observances.
The gallery is open Monday through Friday, and often hosts artist receptions during Davis’ 2nd Friday ArtAbout.
Gallery 1885
Address: 820 Pole Line Rd, Davis
Phone: (530) 756-7807
Hours: M—F, 8a—3p
