ABOUT US
Gene and Donna Smith - Owners
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This gallery began with a vision of bringing an art gallery to the community of Grafton, Illinois. Grafton has such a rich history and art has a profound impact on small communities, often serving as a catalyst for social, economic, and cultural development. Art can reflect and celebrate the unique cultural identity of a community, preserving traditions and heritage for future generations. It can also introduce new perspectives and ideas, enriching the cultural tapestry of the community. With Grafton boasting the largest Veteran population per capita in the state of Illinois at 17%, it is important to highlight the impact our Veterans have had on the history of this country.
After serving in the Marine Corps during Vietnam, Gene Smith found a renewed vision and hope through the power of creating art. Opening this new business has always been a dream for owners Gene and Donna Smith. Through engaging the community and connecting with artists across the region and the country, the Grafton Art Gallery is positioned to deliver a positive impact through artistic expression. |
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Jacqueline Duty is a Chilean author, speaker and marketing consultant. She invested a twenty-year career in corporate media working for metropolitan newspapers, magazines, 11 radio stations and television for twenty years. She launched her own marketing agency and online media company in her pursuit to help businesses tell their story.
She serves on the school board for MVCS and the Hispanic Chamber of Metro St. Louis. She also works closely with Rotary, Latino Roundtable, HLG, Hispanic Festival, LatinX Art Club, and many more civic organizations. She is the Commissioner of Communication for the National Memorial of Military Ascent. As a part owner of the Grafton Art Gallery, she works with groups across the region to leverage art to help tell stories and launch new artists into new levels of excellence. Jacqueline remains dedicated to helping people pursue their purpose and achieve success. |
Jacqueline Duty - Co-Owner
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THE ROAD TO THE GALLERY
.The road to the Gallery began in a small town near Kansas City, Missouri. After graduation from high school, Gene joined the US Marine Corps and Donna went to the University of Missouri (Columbia) for an education degree. After completion of both, they met again, got married and moved to St. Louis.
Donna taught for 30 years as a high school teacher. Gene became a small business owner for 37 years. During that period, Gene finished his bachelor’s degree in art history with minors in studio art and photography. It became apparent to both that many talented students needed financial assistance to complete their dreams and goals for their future.
After they sold their business, they moved to Grafton. And the dream of an Art Gallery started to grow. Donna became a City Council member and saw the need to expand businesses along Main Street. As they discussed the concept, it became apparent that there were many talented local artists who needed a venue to exhibit their work. Gene was also aware of the number of veterans in Grafton (17% of the city population – highest of any town in the state of Illinois). He saw the gallery as a place to recognize and honor veterans. Early in 2024, the current building became available and was remodeled to become The Grafton Art Gallery.
As Grafton continues to evolve as an art district, Grafton Art Gallery launches a new opportunity for local artists to feature their work and tell their story.
Donna taught for 30 years as a high school teacher. Gene became a small business owner for 37 years. During that period, Gene finished his bachelor’s degree in art history with minors in studio art and photography. It became apparent to both that many talented students needed financial assistance to complete their dreams and goals for their future.
After they sold their business, they moved to Grafton. And the dream of an Art Gallery started to grow. Donna became a City Council member and saw the need to expand businesses along Main Street. As they discussed the concept, it became apparent that there were many talented local artists who needed a venue to exhibit their work. Gene was also aware of the number of veterans in Grafton (17% of the city population – highest of any town in the state of Illinois). He saw the gallery as a place to recognize and honor veterans. Early in 2024, the current building became available and was remodeled to become The Grafton Art Gallery.
As Grafton continues to evolve as an art district, Grafton Art Gallery launches a new opportunity for local artists to feature their work and tell their story.
