welcome

The Art and Mischief of Cheryl L. Massey

hello, my peeps...

Welcome! I'm Cheryl Massey, the artist known as "cherdo" (pronounced like share-dough). Cherdo has been my nickname since my early twenties, a result of toddlers' inability to pronounce "Cheryl." The moniker stuck, and when it came time to showcase my artwork, I couldn't part with it. Consequently, all my pieces bear the signature "cherdo," a nod to my close circle of friends.

Though my love for art has been lifelong, the demands of life often relegated these passions to the sidelines. But as seasons change, so do priorities. Now, as a self-taught artist fueled by an enduring ardor for creativity and learning, I count myself lucky to be immersed in the vibrant artistic community of Knoxville, Tennessee.This community is my tribe, and I am committed to championing its spirit of collaboration and creativity. After all, they let me sling watercolor, acrylic, and pastels in this neck of the woods.

my town

There's no place like Knoxville; it holds a special place in my heart. Landing in the midst of this community feels like a tremendous blessing.

Knoxville, Tennessee, pulsates with artistic energy, and it's not hard to see why. The stunning landscapes, welcoming locals, abundant opportunities for artistic education, diverse galleries, and supportive art groups create an environment ripe for creativity. For those willing to put in the work and persevere, there's a myriad of avenues to carve out a niche.

I am continuously invigorated by the remarkable talent within the Knoxville artist community. Actively participating in organizations like the Arts & Culture Alliance, Tennessee Watercolor Society, Tennessee Artists’ Association, Knoxville Watercolor Society, and the Fountain City Art Center keeps me connected and inspired - and if you are looking to grow as an artist and create some great friendship, I encourage you to connect with our groups. Need a suggestion? Go to my happenings page for links.

Additionally, I feel fortunate to collaborate with fellow artists Linda Blair and Marcia Shelly, as we share the spotlight in our joint exhibits known as the "3 Dames."