Winkel Gallery turns 10 Today!
WHAT A JOURNEY IT HAS BEEN!
A decade filled with memories, new relationships, countless pivots, and, of course, a whole lot of art-making.
Capturing the moment of my first sale, 2015.
When I first picked up a paintbrush in February 2013, I was just three months away from graduating with a business degree. I never could have predicted that just two years later, I’d open an art gallery—or that it would grow into what it is today.
Winkel Gallery began as my personal studio—a space where I could create and share my own work. For the first six years, it was solely dedicated to my art. While I was experiencing great success, something still felt missing. I had built this amazing platform, yet I kept meeting artists who would ask me, “How did you do this?” At the same time, collectors looking to support local talent often asked if I knew of other artists they might like.
That’s when, in 2021–2022, everything shifted. We underwent a major renovation that reimagined the space entirely. Soon after, we officially opened our doors to represent other talented local artists—a decision that expanded Winkel Gallery into something far greater than I had ever envisioned.
We made it through a global pandemic—a time when I seriously questioned whether to keep going or let go. But we stayed the course. Over the years, we’ve expanded beyond exhibitions, introducing art lessons and community workshops, team-building events, and custom framing. This journey has brought so much joy. I’ve met incredible people, hosted unforgettable exhibitions, and grown in ways I never imagined.
I’m deeply grateful to everyone who has supported Winkel Gallery and helped turn this dream into a 10-year (and counting) reality. Art has been a healing tool for me since the very first moment I picked up a paintbrush. I hope that passion comes through not only in the work we exhibit, but also in the experience guests have when they visit the gallery.
To everyone who has ever stepped foot in the gallery—thank you. And to all the collectors—thank you for sharing this journey with me. I always say, artists need art lovers just as much as art lovers need artists. The success of this gallery wouldn’t be possible without your support.
From the bottom of my heart, thank you for sharing even a single moment with me and Winkel Gallery.
Thank You,
Justin Winkel
One of my first headshots, taken while I was preparing to self-publish my first book (Photograph by Damon Rice)