ODE TO MARSHALL AND IRIS Marshall and Iris, the Mud Cloth King and Clay Queen, Bringing Black Art to the Capitol City scene. They started the Kuumba Collective several years ago, Setting up on Second Saturdays downtown with artist friends, Then at several places on the Del Pa-so. They scored really big in late 2009, When they got a huge space at 1001 Del Paso Blvd., right on time. When the Kuumba Collective Art Gallery was born, Marshall and Iris scrubbed and they painted. And they hung art treasures until they nearly fainted. They brought in new artists to show off their wares In the hope that Sacramentans would soon start shopping there. Their vision was clear: bring the world amazing Black Art. And they handled their business and were rarely apart. More artists came and a few members helped pay the bills. But those two shouldered the great burden to make it all real.
"Thursday through Saturday, noon until to 6," That's their mantra and they hope it sticks To bring out people of all races and likes Who will value our art with big $duckets$ so nice. Facebook, Constant Contact, the web and the phone. They shout to the world that Kuumba is home. The home that they open to lovers of art. The home that they beautify with our Black Art from the heart. Yes, Marshall and Iris have goals that are many. Their planning is strong. Their hours are a-plenty. Working with 510, and other art lovers, They helped create S.A.A.A.C. (Sacramento African American Artists Collective) Which is proving to be quite effective. Then working with the Crocker to bring our work to the masses, With Mud Cloth Madness and Kwanzaa, They worked off their asses! So whether you call it "Afrocentric" or "Black" Marshall and Iris have definitely got our back! We thank you, we thank you, For all that you've done To bring our Black Art to its place in the sun! Love you both! From your many supporters
 
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