Marlene Paul / Muse

Marlene left her advertising career, driven by a desire to “give a voice to the voiceless.” A self-described “wannabe artist,” she understood the power of creative expression and wanted to share it with Richmond’s urban youth. Ad agency owner, Cabell Harris doodled the Art 180 name on a napkin at Mama Zu’s, synchronicity ensued, and Marlene’s non-profit was born. “Our name refers to the turnaround that comes through art.” Every Art 180 project ends with an audience. “We hold readings, make recordings, and host public art shows. We help these kids to realize that their thoughts are valid and that they are vaild.” Now entering its 10th year, Art 180 was awarded a $200,000 grant from the Bank of America Charitable Foundation in November. Four weeks later, Marlene, shown here with an Art 180 mural at the East District Family Development Center, welcomed daughter Maya to the world.