FROM THE FARM TO FIFTY FACES | Janis V. Bers
Amusingly, this and indeed the second edition of“ Spokane Fifty,” do not actually contain exactly fifty subjects, and Marshall laughingly told me he could have perhaps called them“ Spokane One Hundred or more!”
Since his debut volume was very large and fairly expensive at around 50 dollars to purchase, Marshall, noting that nominations were still arriving, set about compiling a second edition. This time, to make the book more affordable and accessible, he chose to publish this edition with black and white photographs and in a smaller lightweight soft cover format.
And the“ book” doesn’ t stop there by any means! This is very much an ongoing series of projects because Spokane itself is constantly progressing and moving forward along with its people bringing new ideas and ideals to our city.“ I’ m going to continue creating new volumes of‘ Spokane Fifty’, and one day I’ ll make sure I definitely hit that so far elusive target number,” he assured me with a smile.
When Marshall noticed that an exciting new city development called Kendall Yards was being constructed adjacent to the Spokane River on the northwest side of downtown, he hoped a part of this complex could be dedicated to visual arts in all mediums. It might become a showplace and hub for local and regional artists to display and share their work, and also provide an inviting space to encourage all members of our community to visit and enjoy all the wonders on display and experience a whole new world of color and expression. Marshall fortunately achieved his goal two years ago by securing a suite at Kendall Yards and formed his Marmot Art Space. This delightfully intimate open plan“ white cube” or“ white box” style gallery proudly displays a constantly changing array of works of art, and Marshall’ s signature monthly event focuses on his First Friday exhibitions. These are held, as the name suggests, every first Friday of each month from 5pm to 8pm. Each of these exhibitions is completely new and contrasting, offering wide varieties of artworks whose topics and artists are alternated and refreshed at every First Friday event.
This interview took place at Marshall’ s Marmot Art Space, and in doing so I was very fortunate to view an entire wall of his gallery filled with large-scale photographs on display, extracted from his“ Spokane Fifty” book— which incidentally is available from Marshall personally at Marmot Art Space. I’ m sure he would be delighted to sign your very own copy.
In closing, as I always like to do with every contributor, I invited Marshall to offer his thoughts along with his hopes and aspirations as he moves forward.
“ I think it’ s really important to recognize the Spokane renaissance that’ s happening with its arts and culture and their value. Spokane is becoming an enchanted city and we should celebrate this and feel good about it by encouraging and continuing to support our city, and one another.”
You can find out more about“ Spokane Fifty” and contact Marshall online at his website at www. spokanefifty. com The book is also available for purchase at Auntie’ s Book Store in downtown Spokane. You can also take a virtual tour of Marmot Art Space online at www. marmotartspace. com
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