Our Community

Art has always been more than paint on a canvas or clay in hand — it’s a way to connect, inspire, and build something greater than ourselves. Being part of an art community feeds my soul, and I believe that engaging with the arts enriches not just our lives but also our culture.

Community isn’t just about the people around us; it’s about what we create together. It’s about lifting each other up, celebrating creativity, and making positive things happen. At The Marshall Muse Gallery, we are more than a gallery. We are a collective of artists, dreamers, thinkers, and supporters who believe in the power of art to transform and bring people together.

A Gallery Built by Community, for Community

The Marshall Muse Gallery concept is here today because of the unwavering support, belief, and generosity of so many people who have stood beside me through this journey. It’s impossible to name everyone here, but please know that every encouraging word, every shared idea, and every show of support has been a piece of the foundation of this space. I do want to name a few, and hope you’ll read on; this will help you get a sense of just how vast a network is supporting this place.

To my parents, Jerry and Janet Marshall, whose love and encouragement have always guided me — thank you for believing in my vision and always cheering me on. You might see my mom Jan running the numbers when you stop by. To my husband, Adam Becker, and our three daughters, Riley, Brooke, and Haven who have patiently supported this dream, even when it took over our conversations, our schedules, and our home — your love means everything.

To my past gallery co-op partners, the artists who have exhibited and created with us, and the students and customers who have supported me through the years — you’ve all played a role in shaping this journey. Every artist who has picked up a brush, every student who has taken a class, every collector who has purchased a piece of art — you’ve contributed to this dream.

This space would not exist without the incredible belief and support of United Community Bank, which walked me through my first commercial and SBA loan, believing in this concept as much as I did. Kathryn Konze, who helped me create the most important excel spreadsheet of my life, which played a crucial role in getting my loan approved. Without her help organizing these numbers, I never would have made it past the first step with the bank.

Amanda Priscak, who has always kept me organized, focused, and on track, tackling the tedious but essential work I often struggle with — your support has been invaluable in keeping this vision moving forward.

Karen Fridy, an artist herself, was the perfect partner in helping to design a space that not only functions beautifully but also reflects the spirit of creativity. Andrew and Gene, with Alliance Architecture of the Triad, guided us through the intricate details of what to do — and what not to do — ensuring that we brought this vision to life.

My contractor Bill Sinclair, for agreeing to this project, I’m looking forward to seeing what he creates in this beautiful historic home.

A huge thank you to the City of Greensboro for their patience, guidance, and encouragement in helping us make this happen.

To Melody Watson, who took my website dreams and made them a reality, and Laureen Haviland, who created a logo that represents our creative spirit — both of you have been instrumental in shaping our brand.

To Kathleen Donohue, for constantly reminding me that I can do this and should do this. To Joe Bergeron, who — just like in the good old days at Marshall Art Gallery — helped me crunch the numbers and turn this dream into a possibility.

To Chris Wilson and Marshall Yandle, for answering my countless questions and encouraging me every step of the way. To fellow gallery owners like Dorothy at Artmongerz, whose support and encouragement remind me that we are stronger together. To the many local business owners who have reached out with advice, encouragement, and words of wisdom — you have made this journey feel like home.

And to my friends (you know who you are) — who have listened to me talk endlessly about commercial loans, permits, and art supplies (and somehow still managed to smile through it all) — your patience and encouragement have meant the world.

It Takes a Community

The truth is, no dream happens in isolation. It takes a community of people who believe in each other, uplift each other, and work together to make things happen. If I forgot to name someone here, please know that every email and text, (even the quick, short ones,) every encouraging comment, every social media thumbs-up has been fuel to keep this vision moving forward.

And most of all, thank you — to you, the one reading this. Whether you’re an artist, a collector, a student, or simply someone who believes in the power of creativity, you are part of this community. Thank you for your interest, your support, and for being part of The Marshall Muse Gallery.

We are here because of people like you, and we are so grateful.
Tracey