The Rebecca V Gallery Story

The Rebecca V Gallery is the product of a collective vision to build a gallery that serves the community while showcasing dynamic, high quality fine art. From a group of passionate local art collectors and artists emerged an art gallery determined to include its community in its growth and be accessible to the public.

The idea was given life after the chance meeting of Tony Valenzuela, a local builder and art collector, and Patrick Howe, an artist and marketing professional, at one of Patrick’s art openings in fall 2005. Following their initial brief meeting, the two men’s paths began crossing frequently and over time they learned they shared a common dream – to own an art gallery focused on community involvement.

The synergy between them was obvious. Tony’s experience collecting fine art and zeal for developing property was the perfect compliment to Patrick’s background in sales and marketing; work with galleries and museums; and career as a painter. Lightening had struck. Patrick would end up being an integral part of the team that laid the foundation for the gallery and helped introduce it to the community. His contributions can be felt in the gallery and his artwork is a gallery staple.

But, the gallery would need another person to help provide the backbone of the business and carry the message into the community. Tony found that strength in his inspiring and passionate friend Deb Haller. When not transporting goods for the US Air Force or flying commercial planes for United Airlines, she can be found touring and patronizing art galleries around the world. Deb not only brings a passion for art, but a deep desire to bring art to others in her community. She is committed to the idea that art is for everyone, no matter what their individual taste or background.

The final piece of the puzzle was finding and securing the right Gallery Director. A national search resulted in resumes from hundreds of qualified professionals. While many applicants were versed in art and art history, few had the desirable balance of sharp business skills and sense of purpose we found in Kelly Joseph. Also in search of a gallery with greater sense of community involvement, Kelly ended her tenure with the prestigious Dillon Gallery in the Chelsea District of New York City and came to Tacoma to round out the team at Rebecca V.

Once the team and vision were in place we went about finding a name that would embody our culture and vision. Because the seed for the gallery began in the minds of the founders, we began the process by searching for a pleasing combination of our names. We soon realized our names were not meant for that purpose and broadened the search. Then the obvious occurred to us and we named the gallery after Rebecca Valenzuela, Tony’s 14-year-old daughter. A source of his own energy and creativity, the idea of using a child’s name also speaks to our vision for inclusion, open-mindedness and discovery. We hope that all who enter can enjoy fine art as though experiencing it for the first time.

Our collective vision is not that of the typical fine art gallery, but one of community, people and accessibility. Instead of a stereotypical, stark environment with an inattentive staff and echoing silence, the Rebecca V Gallery is about connecting people to the very real, social ‘usefulness’ of art. We’ve created an atmosphere of inclusion. You don’t have to be an art aficionado to come by and find a piece of art that will bring joy into your life. You need only bring your passion and enthusiasm for beautiful art.

The Rebecca V Gallery is always an interesting destination for art and culture. The gallery represents a unique blend of talented artists from Tacoma, the Pacific Northwest, and throughout the United States, and features signature shows and other interesting events. Not to mention a great glass of wine is always just a few feet away at Pairings, our neighbor wine bar and resident caterer.

On Saturday, March 10th the Rebecca V Gallery held its grand opening to a very warm reception. We are honored and pleased with the community’s support and look forward to cultivating a beautiful relationship with you all.