The Marin History Museum has long accepted works of art. The collection today is a mix of mediums—from 19th century needlepoint to 1970s batik—from artists well-known to unknown. This exhibit highlights the best of the museum’s paintings, including a selection of works from a recent donation of 36 paintings by Thaddeus and Ludmilla Pilat Welch.

The word “muse” comes from the ancient Greek mousa, referring to nine sister-goddesses believed to be the source of inspiration for artists and poets. Through centuries and languages, muse has retained its meaning as a catalyst for creative expression. Like an artist marks their work by signing it, Marin leaves its mark on those who are captured by its beauty – entranced to preserve it forever.

Marin the Muse: Paintings from the Collection runs May 31st to December 31st, 2025 at the Boyd Gate House in downtown San Rafael.