Inspired by his twin brother, many of Marshall's memories are shared or discussed with his twin brother, Kenneth E. Marshall. Born only a minute apart, both John & Kenneth Marshall talk to each other everyday, can finish each other's sentences, have tales of grandeur, secrets that will go to the grave, and a playful, painful, passionate, and poignant point of view and understanding of Black life. 

Ken's Twin Art Gallery is named after and for John's best friend and hero, his Brother, Kenneth Eugene Marshall.