US
Us
About
WELCOME TO VISUAL INDEX
Founded in 2017, Visual Index is the only gallery in the country to focus on representing makers from all 50 states!
Woman-owned & founded by curator Toni Tronu, Visual Index is a shoppable gallery located in the downtown arts district of Winston-Salem, a creative hub in the Piedmont region of North Carolina. Winston-Salem, known as the City of Arts & Innovation, established the country's first locally established arts council in 1949, an organization that Toni currently serves as Chair of the Board of Directors.
Not in town? No worries! Our ever-changing selection of goods is available online 24/7 in our web shop.
Visual Index believes in supporting living makers.
We carry contemporary craft and fine art in a range of mediums, from functional pottery to decorative art prints. We don't follow trends, we don't think everything has to be matching, and we relish mixing textures and materials. We represent artists whose work is attainable and try our darnedest to be approachable, so you can live your best life: surrounded by handcrafted works that make you happy.
Keep us in mind when searching for gifts, and be sure to treat yourself to something handmade. It's an incredible way to put your money where your heart is!
We can't wait to meet you.
Toni Tronu
Owner + Curator
Toni’s admiration for makers and their craft inspired the creation of Visual Index, where her vision for great art and unique design come together to create an unforgettable gallery experience.
With a formal background in photography, Toni developed a keen eye for composition, light, and storytelling, which now shape her approach as a curator. Her photographic training has honed her ability to see each piece as part of a larger narrative, crafting an environment that celebrates each artist’s work while inviting visitors to connect deeply with the art.
Toni’s dedication to elevating the work of independent artists and enriching the community has been recognized through honors such as the 2021 NCAEA Friend of the Arts Award and the Winston-Salem Forsyth County Arts Council’s 2021 R. Philip Hanes, Jr. Young Leader Award.
When she isn’t curating or advocating for artists in the gallery, Toni enjoys spending time with her family—Robert, Iris, and their two spirited dogs, Merlin and Mustard. Outside the gallery, she can be found gardening, reading, or making music with her husband in their creative project, Lady Gold Van.
Jessie Rae Moncla
Gallery Assistant
If Toni isn’t at the gallery, you’ll likely be welcomed by Jessie’s warm smile and easygoing energy.
An accomplished artist and illustrator, Jessie trained professionally at Weaver Academy and UNCG and spent several years teaching art before dedicating herself full-time to her own creative work. Known for her pop art influences and playful nods to daily life, Jessie’s work is inspired by icons like Dolly Parton and reflects her vibrant spirit and sense of humor.
Jessie has exhibited widely across the Triad area and regularly hosts local life drawing events in High Point. She has created several murals around town, including a design inspired by the balancing act of daily living. Visitors to Visual Index may even spot a mural by Jessie on the gallery walls soon!
Frequently Asked Questions
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Lots of ways! For one thing, we don't hide behind a giant marble reception desk like those stuffy white-cube spots; our owner and staff strive to offer kind and supportive guidance to anyone and everyone who is interested in contemporary craft and artwork.
For another, you don't need to be a kajillionaire to afford our artists' handmade goods! We carry a wide range of price levels to appeal to both the casual shopper and the experienced collector.
We could name lots more, but the last thing I'll mention is our focus on living artists; there's no grand family estate behind these works – your purchase will directly benefit the well being and career of a working artist or craftsperson, and by extension make a positive impact on their local arts community...no matter where in the United States they are!
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To see our location & hours info click here.
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Check out our Art Friends! To learn more, click here.
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To see details on applying, click here.