Nancy Markoe, owner of Nancy Markoe Fine American Crafts Gallery has announced that after 30 years, she will close the doors of her retail Pass a Grille Gallery. The Gallery has been named the Top Retailer of American Crafts in the country, winning the coveted Niche Award and was included in the Top 10 numerous times.
Started in 1986, with Nancy’s own pottery and 14 other artists, the Gallery grew to represent over 500 American Artisans. Not a consignment gallery, the works were always purchased outright from the Artisans. “It changed my career which began in 1974, from being a production potter to gallery owner, but enabled me continue my focus and dedication to the American Crafts.” Nancy said.
Ms. Markoe was awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award for her 10 years as Chairman of the Board of the non-profit Arts Business Institute. As well, she served as a member of the faculty, and traveled the country giving workshops about the business of art and mentoring individual artists.
A wide -ranging customer base, this destination shop has drawn customers from all over the world, locals and tourists alike. Most likely the most famous customer was President Bill Clinton in 1993. On St Pete Beach, Ms. Markoe served as Chair of the Planning Committee and was awarded the Volunteer of the Year Award. The Gallery earned numerous beautification awards. “We were always aware that we were the entrance to Pass a Grille, so we always put forth an effort to make it a beautiful entrance.” Ms. Markoe was elected and served as the St Pete Beach Commissioner of District 4.
“I am so grateful for doing what I love and loving what I do for all these years. When “change” suddenly comes upon you, there is no other path than take a leap of faith and move on.” Nancy Markoe Gallery opened when there were only two other galleries on the scene. One was a co-op and the other, a two dimensional venue. “It was a leap of faith in 1986 to open the Gallery and expose the area to the renaissance occurring in the modern American Crafts Movement. Now look at St Pete; it has become a mecca for
The Gallery will begin a 50% OFF GRAND FINALE RETAIL SALE to customers on June 17. Nancy Markoe Gallery is located at 3112 Pass a Grille Way, St Pete Beach. It is 3 blocks south of the Don Cesar Hotel, at 32nd Avenue. Summer Hours are: Wednesday- Sunday 10-6. Closed Monday and Tuesday.