On view August 31- May 31 2025 | Historical Museum

The Dream Manifested explores how dreams take shape and what we invest in our lives to achieve our goals. It questions how much we believe in ourselves, how we commit to our aspirations, and what we are willing to compromise or sacrifice to move forward. It also examines how we discipline our lives and take consistent, intentional steps toward our goals, not letting fear or self-doubt hold us back.

Produced by the Jacques Marchais Museum of Tibetan Art and hosted by Historic Richmond Town, this exhibition focuses on the life and dreams of Jacques Marchais Koblenz, an extraordinary woman from Cincinnati, Ohio, who moved to Staten Island in 1919. 

Jacques managed to be many things during her life: an actress, an entrepreneur, a wife, a mother, a gallerist, a collector, and a philanthropist. She didn't keep this dream just for herself but wanted to share it with the world. Most importantly, she aimed to leave something transformative for humanity. Through her life and hard work, she not only curated the first Tibetan collection in the United States but also created the first Tibetan architecture in the country. Jacques Marchais reflected on her efforts by saying, "Each stone was lovingly picked by me. I was able to prove to myself that one woman can do it if the talent was great enough and the willingness to work hard was strong enough. My all has been given to this venture: my strength, my health, and the little money I had."

Historic Richmond Town and the Jacques Marchais Museum of Tibetan Art embark on this partnership as part of a larger effort to unite Staten Island's cultural organizations. By sharing resources and audiences, they aim to reach a broader community, foster a unified cultural front, and enhance the richness and accessibility of Staten Island's diverse heritage.