Why did you join the Walker Art Center?

DyShaun Muhammad

When we moved from Atlanta nine years ago, a big draw was the vibrant arts community of Minneapolis, and the Walker seemed to be very much at the center of that scene. We are huge performing arts fans and that first year, being new to town, we blocked out about eight months of Walker shows.

Jeremy Black

We still have fond memories of the Jérôme Bel performance that year. There is so much here—from graphic arts to furniture to dance to music. Since we were coming from sweltering Atlanta, it really helped us get through our first winter, having so many engaging things to do on cold winter nights.

DM

We discovered quickly that year that the Walker was aligned with our values and interests in art and design, and found it to be a critical asset to our community. So, it was only natural that we would support it. When friends visit from out of town, it is always the first stop.

What do you enjoy most about the Walker?

DM

The diversity of things to do and what’s available. We took advantage of mini golf a few years ago. We also bought VIP tickets to Rock the Garden, which ended up being one of the most fun memories of that summer.

JB

We wait for the performing arts season brochure to arrive each summer, then mark what we want to see. Some shows are challenging, but they always leave you thinking about something. We also visit the Walker Shop frequently.

DM

And the Brits ad awards [the British Arrows Awards] have become an annual event. Jeremy’s birthday is in December, so we make an outing of it.

How did you decide to upgrade from a Dual membership to the Sponsor level?

DM

After being members for several years, we grew to appreciate the incredible value of the Walker and wanted to show our support. When we go through our list of what to help fund each year, the Walker is at the top of the list.

JB

We travel and visit art spaces around the world, so we love the reciprocal membership privileges that Contributing-level members receive.

DM

In addition to all the benefits, my employer matches our entire membership contribution. We just pay our dues, and then General Mills sends a check to the Walker doubling our gift. It makes giving that much more meaningful, and it couldn’t be easier!

Is there anything else you would like to say about your Walker membership?

JB

We live in Uptown, I work downtown, DyShaun takes I-394 to work. So even though we don’t step inside every day, the Walker is such a part of our everyday life.

DM

Every Thursday night, I drive by on my way home from work and see all the lights on and action inside. Without fail, no matter what we have going on that night, I say to myself, “I wish I was at the Walker.”