Today we’d like to introduce you to Meredith Williams.
Hi Meredith, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My husband, Ricky (also co-owner of Martha’s), and I are both born and raised Austinites! We started dating in high school and have been through many different phases of life together. I went to UT for education and was a teacher for many years, while Ricky slowly dipped his toes into the art world by opening up a space for artist studios. Over the years, the studio evolved into an art gallery, and that is when I jumped in full-time at Martha’s. We both have a deep love for art and artists, so the gallery was the perfect way to be involved in the art world.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Owning a small business will always have its bumps in the road! For Ricky and me, some of the struggles came from neither of us really having a background in business or the arts, so there was a big learning curve there. But we were so lucky to meet some fantastic gallerists outside of Austin who had many years of experience, and their openness to sharing the ins and outs of the art world was paramount in our finding our footing at the beginning. We are also so thankful for the support of the local Austin community as well as collectors outside of Austin who have purchased art and supported the gallery, because as any small business owner will tell you- sales are always at the top of mind! And with the ups and downs of the economy, every dollar counts!
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Martha’s ?
Based in Austin, Texas, Martha’s is an art gallery that specializes in working with early-career artists. Presenting solo and group exhibitions spanning all media, Martha’s is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse ecosystem for artists and collaborators. I am so proud to have built this business from the ground up with my husband, Ricky, and the beautiful community that has blossomed around our gallery. The exhibitions always draw a wonderful array of people who appreciate art, and getting to know everyone has been so special to us. While we are based here in Austin, we also travel around the country to art fairs. A goal of ours is to share with the larger art world what incredible things are going on down here in Texas. We love connecting and collaborating with galleries outside of Austin, having shown in Los Angeles, New York, Dallas, Houston, and more.
Something that is very important to me is that every person who walks into our gallery feels welcome and comfortable. At times, the art world may feel inaccessible or out of reach, and we want to change that! Everyone is welcome to come in and appreciate some beautiful art- and please never be afraid to ask questions!
Martha’s currently has two locations, with the original based in Hyde Park and the second in Clarksville’s Westside Market.
What matters most to you? Why?
Giving the artists a platform to showcase their incredible work in a professional, welcoming, loving environment. We want to make sales so the artist can continue their practice and follow their life passion as a creator. It is also important to me that when you walk into the gallery, you feel the love and commitment that Martha’s puts into every exhibition.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.marthas.gallery
- Instagram: @marthas.atx
Image Credits
Andrea Calo, Michelle Nash, Claire Schaper
