Our Beginnings
The Midland Palette Club traces its roots back to the late 1920s, when a small group of neighbors began gathering in living rooms, garages, and storerooms to paint together. On September 16, 1935, they officially formed an art club dedicated to creativity and community.
Founding Members
The twelve women whose vision created a home for art in Midland were:
Lucille Barron • Alva Bingham • Mary Butler • May Gossett • Myrtle Gollady • Myra Hale • Bess Long Hix • Mary S. Bay • Alpha Lanham • Maude Snider • Mattie Mitchell • T.A. Whiteman
Building a Home for Art
Determined to create a permanent space, the founders raised $700 through the sales of cookies, aprons and magazines. With those funds, they built a small wooden clubhouse at 604 Colorado Street. The women painted the building themselves, and their husbands pitched in with plumbing, lawn care, and maintenance. It was the first time they could all paint together under one roof.
Growth & Change
As Midland grew, so did the Palette Club. With the oil boom of the 1980s, the downtown property had become highly valuable. Members made the bold decision to sell and reinvest in the future. With the proceeds, they built a larger, modern brick facility at 907 West Wadley Avenue, complete with a spacious studio for art classes, a gallery, and space for community gatherings.
A Lasting Legacy
From humble beginnings to a thriving art center, the Palette Club has remained true to its founding spirit: to nurture creativity, support artists, and bring the community together through the visual arts. Nearly a century later, their legacy continues to inspire every class, workshop, and exhibition we host.