Born and raised in Cincinnati, Barbara Apking attended St. Ursula Convent/Academy and the University of Cincinnati, graduating with a B.A. in economics and social theory. Procter & Gamble Market Research Dept. provided the first job, and field assignments provided coast to coast exposure to the good ol’ USA. Never in her wildest dreams did she expect to marry a hometown boy from Cincinnati, met through the marriage of mutual friends, and move to East TN to remain happily ever after. Three sons now each paired, and each with a daughter all living in Knoxville provide lots of family time and celebrations. Twenty-eight years, and still counting, of selling real estate for Coldwell Banker Wallace & Wallace Realtors has also provided joyous occasions and challenges as well. Many happy times serving and growing the Knoxville Museum of Art, Knox Heritage, East TN Community Design Center, Leadership Knoxville, Dogwood Arts Festival, Clarence Brown Theatre, JDF, St. Jude, and others leaves little time for much other than walking Lakeshore Park, whining, wining, and dining in Knoxville or at our Hilton Head vacation home.

“I am looking forward to sharing my long time connections to the Knoxville Museum of Art family especially the members of the Collectors Circle and The Guild as well as developing ideas for ‘friends of the UT Art School’ and help developing events and occasions that nurture long term relationships and opportunities for the students,” Barbara says.