24 Mar Verna Bagby of Greenway Arts Alliance
Verna Bagby’s creative presence and hard work at Greenway Arts Alliance established the framework of what GAA is today. Verna, a Master Carpenter, literally built the loft of our Greenway Court Theatre and the deck of our Greenway Institute for the Arts and MTP offices. Once the theatre was up and running, she worked at the Melrose Trading Post every Sunday for over 2 decades.
Verna with Greenway Court Theatre Designer James Eric
Prior to her time at Greenway, Verna was a trailblazer in the television and film industry. She may have been the first woman to own a set construction shop. She was a construction coordinator, construction foreman and an art director on several projects from the 1970’s through the 1990’s. She designed and created sets for many independent movies, including many John Cassavetes films.
Verna with James Eric in deep creative contemplation
Verna Bagby IMDB Page Credits include:
If you know of any other projects Verna led that are not on her IMDB page, please email Natalie(@)greenwayarts.org.
Mementos of the Unforgettable Verna
ONE OF A KIND – Verna always said what she felt. I usually left our conversation with a big smile. She was a writer, master carpenter, commercial fisherperson, business women- always excellent at everything she did. She cared so much for all her friends at the Trading Post. Big love and hugs always for Verna! – Pierson
Verna at the 20th Anniversary of Greenway Arts Alliance & Melrose Trading Post (October 2017)
In 2017 we asked Verna and some of our original vendors to take a Tin Type photo in Vendor Jason Madsen’s booth. This is the photo that was taken of Verna using this striking process from the 1800’s:
Tin Type Photo of Verna from 2017
Every Sunday at MTP, Verna brought elements of professionalism, hard work, wisdom, and joy. She both understood the complexities of running an operation like the Market, as well as the simplicity of saying “Hello” and “Good Morning” – she did everything with a generous heart, a quick wit, a twinkle in her eyes, and an attitude unparalleled within our staff. God Bless you Verna – you taught me more than you could ever know. – J Scott
Verna with Greenway Staff Members Patrick (left) and Ian (right).
Verna with a slice of Greenway Staff Member Denise.
Greenway Staff Member Denise is an incredible actor, dancer, and voice over artist. She performed this audio homage of Verna talking on our walkie talkie system:
MTP staff member Patrick shared this short & sweet video he took of Verna in the summer of 2018:
Rest in Power Verna.
Your legacy and spark for life continue to live in all of us who were lucky enough to know you.