San Rafael, CA – Margaret and Louis Bartolini have a long history of supporting and funding Marin Center art exhibits, and soon they’ll have a chance to enjoy them in a room with their own name on it.
By accepting a generous (but undisclosed) donation from the Novato couple, the Marin County Department of Cultural Services and the Marin Cultural Association will unveil the new Bartolini Gallery inside Marin Center’s Exhibit Hall Building on the evening of November 2. The gallery will present the work of local artists throughout the year and showcase the diversity and creativity of talent in Marin County.
“Lou and I have always been amazed at the enormously talented artists here in Marin,” Marge Bartolini said. “With our gift to the Marin Cultural Association we are delighted to support this permanent new gallery ensuring the opportunity for the public to view the fine works of art that are on display now and well into the future.”
Marge and Lou began their artistic support with the Redwood Foyer Exhibit program in 2002. Then in 2015, they were the first funders of the Exhibit Hall gallery helping to launch the exhibits space. This year, their gift to the Marin Cultural Association supports naming rights of the gallery and endowment funds to sustain gallery operations for the next several years.
“We are forever thankful to Marge and Lou for their leadership, generosity and unwavering belief in the value of the arts in our community,” said Director of Cultural Services Gabriella Calicchio. “Their support and vision has made it possible to present and promote Marin County artists on our campus for years to come.”
The gallery unveiling and celebration will take place during a private event on Wednesday, November 2, with the opening of the exhibition Inspired Images: Through the Eye of the Photographer. On view through December 16, Inspired Images features some 100 photographs by members of the Marin Photography Club. The club was founded in 1948 and has more than 135 members eager to share and improve their work through monthly critiques and competitions.
The Bartolini Gallery will be open weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on selected weekends. The gallery is located at 10 Avenue of the Flags, San Rafael. Visit www.marincenter.org for more information.
The Marin Cultural Association advocates for and serves as a catalyst to increase participation, advance collaboration and optimize resources for culture in Marin County. Proceeds help its mission to support arts and culture in Marin and are used to underwrite programming, education and tickets for underserved youth and to upgrade facilities.