ABOUT

Spotlight on Our Namesake: Grace Mapel

The Gallery proudly showcases the works of its namesake, Grace Mapel, a remarkably talented and yet unknown artist. Born Anna Grace Miller in 1918 in El Paso, Texas, Mapel's formative experiences in the vibrant border town profoundly influenced her artistic path. Her educational journey at the prestigious Chicago Art Institute culminated in a fine arts degree, through which she honed her artistic vision and skills.

Upon her return to El Paso in 1941, and marriage to Dexter R. Mapel, Jr., Grace adeptly navigated the responsibilities of family life while pursuing her passion for art. In 1958, demonstrating her entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to her craft, she founded an interior design business. Among her significant contributions was the design and decoration of the Mutual Federal Savings and Loan in El Paso, a testament to her versatility and creativity across various mediums. Despite her proficiency, particularly in still life painting, much of Mapel's artwork has remained largely unseen beyond her family.

Our Mission

In line with our namesake's legacy, Grace Gallery is committed to illuminating the works of artists from all walks of life, from the celebrated to the yet-to-be-discovered talents like Grace Mapel. Our exhibitions invite art lovers to delve into the rich and diverse contributions of artists whose impact reaches far beyond their immediate environments.

As you explore our website and gallery, we invite you to engage with the stories, artworks, and enduring legacy that Grace Gallery celebrates. Our dedication to art's transformative power on individuals and communities is at the heart of everything we do.

Art of Grace Mapel

We are grateful for the knowledge and guidance of the Grace Gallery BOARD OF ADVISORS

Karen Cringle .......Sheron Driessner.......Sabrina Fajardo.....Carrie Markham.....TC Lipe.....Amy Morter.....Hershall Seals.....Gina Weiner

The Black Bull

The Black Bull -- Home of the Grace Gallery

On the bank of Nolan Creek, the building at 108 W Central was built in the 1890's from Austin Stone --a heavily fossilized limestone found in the area. Some of the blocks weigh in the neighborhood of 400 pounds. The old stone buildings have two walls--exterior and interior with an air gap between. The exterior walls show off the beautiful big square limestone blocks. The interior walls typically had a layer of stucco to prevent deterioration. Built as stone on stone, the sand and lime of the original mortar deteriorate over time. It was adjacent to the Bell County Jail built in 1886 and replaced in 1957. On the north side of the building was a wagon yard.

The old downtown buildings typically had a center support and wall creating two storefronts. The building has housed many different businesses including the Belton Journal newspaper, a music store, a tailor and about 1920 an auto repair shop.

Purchased in 2017, the building has undergone extensive renovation. The exterior walls of the Black Bull were meticulously repaired by local craftsmen returning the walls to their original beauty. Windows and doors on the west and north side were replaced carefully reproducing the wood frames from the old original damaged wood.

Today the Black Bull is the home of the Grace Art Gallery.