Alexis Noble: Cultivating Creativity and Community in Jackson

In the heart of Jackson, Alexis Noble is redefining the art landscape—one brushstroke at a time. Noble is a native of Vicksburg, Mississippi, and has called Jackson home for the past four years. More than just an art gallery owner, she is a visionary dedicated to amplifying the voices of Black and Brown creatives. Her passion shines through two interconnected ventures: Vibe Studio JXN, an art gallery and creative incubator. The studio is housed in a commercial corridor just south of Highway 18 and Highway 80, near Battlefield Park, with the Washington Addition to the north and Alta Woods to the west. Her second venture, The Mashup, is a nonprofit digital platform dedicated to highlighting Black and Brown creatives across various mediums. Noble's journey is a testament to her multifaceted approach to creativity and entrepreneurship.

Growing up between Vicksburg, Joliet, Illinois, and Port Gibson, Noble developed an early desire to be different. This rebellious spirit fueled her creative ambitions, pushing her to create spaces where art could breathe and artists could thrive. Her first art exhibition in 2023 was a pivotal moment, revealing the potential for a gallery that truly represents marginalized artists.

"I chose Jackson because it's the hub of Mississippi," Noble explains. "I wanted to create a space that makes art accessible to everyone, especially those who might not typically walk into a traditional gallery." Her gallery challenges the notion that art is exclusive, inviting community members from all backgrounds to experience and appreciate creative expression.

Located in Suite 21 at 1700 University Blvd in the Mart 51 Shopping Center, Vibe Studio JXN aims to be more than just a gallery. Noble says her neighborhood has untapped potential, envisioning it as a catalyst for economic and cultural transformation. She dreams of inspiring other Black-owned art galleries and potentially creating an art district that showcases the rich creative talent of Jackson.

“This commercial area is a staple. People know what’s here. It’s like a one-stop shop for essentials,” Noble explained. “The response has been a mix. Some people are happy it’s here, while others don’t even know it exists. But, once they step into the space, they’re excited, happy, and curious. It’s different from the typical retail setup. I think the biggest impact is showing that it’s possible to reimagine spaces in new ways. It gives people hope and shows them they can dream big, too.”

Noble's approach goes beyond displaying art. She is committed to nurturing young creative talent, with plans to develop youth programs that support children and parents navigating the creative landscape. Drawing from her own experiences of feeling misunderstood as a creative child, she wants to provide the support and understanding she wished she had received.

“We’re currently partnering with organizations to create youth art activities and activations,” Noble said. “It’s important for young people to see their creativity valued and reflected in their community. These partnerships give them the space to express themselves and be part of something bigger.”

Beyond arts, Noble is also a stylist, photographer, and aspiring DJ, allowing her to connect with artists across different mediums and foster an inclusive creative ecosystem. For her, supporting the arts isn't just about hanging paintings on walls, it's about creating opportunities, challenging narratives, and building platforms for voices often marginalized in traditional art spaces.

“As Jackson continues to evolve, I’m committed to building a future where art is accessible, inclusive, and truly reflects the vibrant spirit of our community one creative space at a time,” she said.

As Jackson continues to evolve, Alexis Noble stands at the forefront of a creative revolution, transforming one gallery space at a time. Her vision extends far beyond her current walls, promising a future where art is accessible, diverse, and truly representative of the community’s vibrant spirit.

Learn more about Vibe Studio JXN here, and support community-driven art by donating to Brewing Community at Noble Grounds, a new space at 1700 University Blvd dedicated to connection, creativity, and culture in Jackson. More than a coffee shop, Noble Grounds is a safe and welcoming hub where local talent is celebrated, stories are shared, and community thrives.