Meet Tony Ray Baker of Downtown Tucson

Today we’d like to introduce you to Tony Ray Baker.

Hi Tony Ray, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
In June 2022, a powerful idea took root. Krystal Popov approached Tom Heath with a bold vision: to inject retail back into downtown Tucson by giving emerging startups a low-risk platform to shine. When Tom shared this with Darren Jones and Tony Ray Baker, a spark ignited.

This was never about creating just another retail space. It became a profound mission.

The trio saw the opportunity to build something truly meaningful: an art gallery dedicated entirely to empowering local artists, by giving profits on their art back to them. Imagine a space where artists earn more from their hard work, rapidly grow their following, and continue generating income long after an original piece sells. This isn’t simply a gallery—it’s a movement designed to help Tucson’s entire creative community thrive.

Crucially, this mission was validated immediately. When presented with the concept, artists Julie Bonner, Ignacio Garcia, Joe Pagac, Sean Parker, and Jessica Gonzales, Jeff Brack were the first to say a resounding yes.

By December 1st, 2022, The Tucson Gallery opened its doors, and Tucson answered the call. The community wholeheartedly embraced the vision, giving local artists a place where their work felt genuinely celebrated and supported.

Then, June 2025 brought an unstoppable chance for growth. A much larger building became available, and the founders immediately seized the opportunity to expand their mission. This new space not only welcomes more artists but also integrates the Tucson Trolley Tour Company, meaning more locals and visitors than ever before are discovering the art and the stories that shape our city.

“Our new gallery was designed to feel like an experience,” says Tony Ray. “We wanted a place where people could relax, connect, learn about art and surround themselves with the incredible beauty created by our local Tucson artists.”

Today, The Tucson Gallery is so much more than a showcase. It is a vibrant community space, a creative hub, and a living celebration of the talent that makes Tucson shine.

When you walk through our doors, you are not just enjoying beautiful art. You are actively:

Supporting the livelihoods of real people, from our original artists to those joining today.

Fueling the local economy and creative spirit.

Investing in a sustainable, thriving movement.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Our biggest challenge was letting people know that downtown finally had retail. We had to come up with a lot of creative marketing to create awareness.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Residential Real Estate, Business Owner, Professional Services, Creative, Teacher

So maybe we end on discussing what matters most to you and why?
When I was younger, I often felt like I didn’t belong in art galleries. The docents and owners could sense I couldn’t afford the pieces, and I could feel their prejudice the moment I walked in. They didn’t want me there. That experience stayed with me.

At The Tucson Gallery, we are committed to doing the exact opposite. Art should be for everyone. We want people to wander in, relax, and simply spend time with the work—no pressure, no judgment, just pure enjoyment. And if something speaks to them, they’ll find pieces at every price point so they can bring that inspiration home.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://thetucsongallery.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tucsongallery
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TucsonGallery/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@tucsongallery
• Other: https://g.page/r/CewpamdAMyhXEAE/review

Image Credits
N/A all images taken by me