For more than 25 years, artist and educator Keri Davis has devoted her career to inspiring creativity across Mississippi. A lifelong art teacher, Keri not only leads classes inside Pacesetter Gallery, but also partners with Table 100 for Sunday night paint-and-sip events and the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science for monthly animal painting workshops. Her passion for collaboration extends even further—Pacesetter Gallery curates the Sheraton Rooftop Mississippi Art Collection, offering guests the opportunity to purchase original works directly from the gallery’s Art Menu. For Keri, growing the arts in Mississippi isn’t just a mission—it’s a calling rooted in family, community, and connection.

 

Located next to Kohl’s in Dogwood, Pacesetter Gallery showcases fine art and unique gifts from more than 70 Mississippi artists. The gallery is a vibrant cultural hub, hosting summer camps, classes, live art demos, and popular paint-and-sip experiences that welcome artists of all ages and skill levels. Its message, “Inspire Your Life with Art,” is reflected in every corner of the space. Since opening, Pacesetter Gallery has earned statewide recognition, voted Best Art Gallery by Mississippi Magazine in 2023, 2024, and 2025, and named Mississippi Tourism Attraction of the Year in 2024.

 

Did you know? 

The name Pacesetter Gallery honors Keri’s grandmother, Lu Haile, who once owned a gallery with the same name. Her first major purchase, Pacesetter Cattle Drive by Melvin Warren—originally commissioned under President Lyndon B. Johnson—symbolized the lead steer setting the pace for the herd. That legacy encouraged Keri in her own artistic journey. Today, Pacesetter Gallery continues that spirit, setting the pace for Mississippi’s arts community since 2021.

 

By partnering to reach new audiences, Keri hopes to connect with collectors seeking Mississippi-made art and those refreshing homes, offices, and commercial spaces. Through gifts, lessons, and meaningful experiences, Pacesetter Gallery brings people together—and inspires them to discover art they love.

Thanks to Pacesetter Gallery and Keri for partnering with Stroll Eastover each month!