New Marin Center Gallery Being Named After Novato Couple

A Novato couple that has a long history of supporting and funding Marin Center art exhibits will soon have a chance to enjoy them in a room with their own name on it.

After accepting a generous -- but undisclosed -- donation from Margaret and Louis Bartolini, the Marin County Department of Cultural Services and the Marin Cultural Association is expected to unveil the new Bartolini Gallery inside Marin Center’s Exhibit Hall Building on the evening of Nov. 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,” Marin 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 with the opening of the exhibition "Inspired Images: Through the Eye of the Photographer." The exhibit, which will be on view through Dec. 16, features some 100 photographs by members of the Marin Photography Club.

The Bartolini Gallery will be open weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on selected weekends. The gallery's located at 10 Avenue of the Flags, San Rafael. More information is available at http://www.marincenter.org.

Image of Marin Center courtesy of Marin County.