EL PASO, TEXAS (KFOX14/CBS4) — For 30 years, the Hal Marcus Gallery has been a fixture in El Paso’s arts community, showcasing local talent and celebrating the culture of the El Paso-Juarez borderland through vivid color and a wide range of styles.
The gallery is marking its 30th anniversary after opening in April 1996. It was founded by local artist Hal Marcus, who opened the space with his daughter, Leilainia Marcus. His wife, Patricia Medici, helped propel the gallery’s growth into what supporters describe as a central gathering place for the local arts scene.
Over three decades, the gallery has displayed Marcus’ work along with pieces from local artists, early El Paso masters, and emerging talent. The gallery has also remained a physical space for art despite economic shifts and changes in the digital landscape.
“Thirty years ago, I wanted to create a space that felt like home for the community’s imagination,” Hal Marcus said. “Seeing the gallery become a place where people connect with our culture through color has been the greatest masterpiece of my life.”
Previously speaking to KFOX14/CBS4, Marcus spoke about his cancer diagnosis, which he received in 2025. While doctors told him he may have only months to live, the 72-year-old has continued to do what he’s always done, turning life into art and using this moment to fuel a powerful new phase of his creative work.
Months after that interview, Marcus and his daughter are speaking with KFOX14/CBS4 on Wednesday to celebrate local art and Marcus’ life and legacy.
KFOX14/CBS4 photojournalist Mariana Ramos takes us inside his living legacy and shows us the undeniable impact he continues to leave on the Borderland.
WATCH:
Hal Marcus Gallery marks 30th anniversary as cornerstone of El Paso arts scene (Credit: KFOX14)
Located in the heart of El Paso, the Hal Marcus Gallery promotes local art and features styles ranging from folk art to contemporary realism.
The gallery’s anniversary celebration includes weekly gatherings every Wednesday, 12-5 pm at 1308 N. Oregon St.
RECOMMENDED: Beloved Borderland artist grapples with cancer diagnosis
Sign up to receive the top interesting stories from in and around our community once daily in your inbox.