After the passing of her husband, Marsha Cole was determined to fill her time with something meaningful—something that would bring her joy. “I wanted to intentionally select places to volunteer that would make me happy,” she shares. “I also wanted to expand my horizons beyond my small hometown near Grand Lake.”
For the past year and a half, Marsha has been a vital part of the George A. Spiva Center for the Arts community. She helps with reception duties, bartending at events, assisting at the Welcome Desk and Gallery Desk, and supporting educational programs by setting up art projects. Her goal has always been to meet new people and be surrounded by creativity.
One of her most memorable moments at Spiva involves an unexpected encounter. “There’s a guy who comes in wearing coveralls and plays the piano,” Marsha recalls. “He’s someone you might not expect to be an artist. We got to talking, and it reminded me that you never know who you’ll meet or what they’ve been through.”
Marsha loves that Spiva provides a space where creativity thrives—not just on the gallery walls, but in the people who walk through the doors every day. “I like to fill my life with different things, not the same thing over and over again,” she says. “I enjoy the drive up from my house, and I love the creative energy here.”
When asked why Spiva is important to Joplin, Marsha points to the organization’s welcoming spirit and its impact on the community’s cultural growth. “It’s a creative hub that makes people feel valued,” she says. “You definitely won’t be disappointed—you’ll always enjoy the time you spend here.”
Her time at Spiva has expanded her appreciation for the arts. “It’s exposed me to different types of art up close,” she says. “I see myself as an ambassador, making people feel welcome when they come into the building.”
Volunteering has also given her new practical skills—like learning point of sale and retail tasks for the first time. Above all, she loves the people: “The creative energy here is balanced, approachable, and knowledgeable. They make me feel valued.”
Did you know that you can provide the opportunity for more individuals to connect to their community and creativity? Your gift makes it possible. From classrooms to galleries, your support ensures that art continues to inspire, connect, and uplift our community. Donate to the Creative Impact Campaign HERE. We are incredibly thankful for your generosity.
Marsha’s Quick Fire Favorites
– Favorite Local Artist: Alicia Farris
– Global Favorite: The Impressionists
– Favorite Medium: Watercolor
– Creative Hobby: Painting (Watercolor)
– Favorite Annual Event: Small Works
– First Piece of Art You Remember Loving: An oil painting of a sailboat by her grandmother
– Coffee or Tea: Coffee
– One Word for Spiva: Magical
Marsha has participated in the 78th Membership Show and the Small Works Auction 2026! She also has work in the Spiva Gift Shop – detailed, gorgeous original watercolor cards that are perfect gifts for your loved ones!
