Zala Highsmith-Taylor is a Fine Artist who moved to Florida from New York City where she retired as Professor of Interdisciplinary and Cross Cultural Studies at Medgar Evers College of the City University of New York. Her art journey began as a child when various members of the Harlem and Queens, New York communities (where she was raised) recognized her as a talented young artist. Her journey continued to develop as she took art classes and explored various media throughout her life. Zala states, “I can’t remember a time when I was not an artist. Art has always been one of my passions.”

Zala received her B.A. Degree from Howard University in Washington, D.C. and her Masters of Education and Doctorate of Education from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. She has been a fine artist for most of her adult life, having studied art under the tutelage of late renowned Latin American artist, Simone Governeur, while she was in graduate school in Amherst. Her art has been exhibited in numerous homes and galleries, including Dorsey’s Gallery in Brooklyn, New York; the Library Gallery at Medgar Evers College; the Art Center and the Mahaffey Theater in St. Petersburg, Florida; the Sun Tan Art Gallery in St. Petersburg Beach; and the Enoch Davis Center in South St. Petersburg. Her work appears on the website of Salt Creek Art Works in St. Petersburg. She is known for ethnic influences, vivid colors, intricate details, and memorable social statements often found in her art.

Since moving to Florida, Zala has taken classes under the tutelage of accomplished pastel artist Vincent Mancuso at the Art Center of St. Petersburg. She has a studio in Salt Creek Art Works where she presents her work to the public by appointment and during gallery openings.

Having experienced various media, Zala is currently enjoying success with pastels. Zala can be contacted at zalahigh@aol.com or through TESA.

Exhibitions:

Ruth Eckerd Hall 2009

Executive Reporting Center 2008 -Present

Salt Creek ArtWorks 2006 -Present

Tribute to Abby Lincoln (Wash. D.C.) 2007

Art Gallery Royale 2006, 2007

Uniquely Original Gallery 2006, 2007

Enoch Davis Center 2005, 2006

St. Petersburg Art Center 2005, 2006

Royale Theater 2006

Mahaffe Theater 2006

SunTan Art Gallery 2006, 2009