Dear Friends,
SEED’s new strategic plan has a focus on supporting Black and Indigenous artists through increased career pathways and supporting the creative economy. As part of this plan, we’re also committed to dismantling white supremacist frameworks in the arts, including gallery exhibition.
On May 3rd, a new exhibit will open at Columbia City Gallery that is a step in this direction. “arnaq, hana’ack, smɁem” features the work of four Indigenous women - Jennifer Angaiak Wood, Savannah LeCornu, Paige Pettibon, and Tammie Dupuis. The title of the exhibit means “women” and is representative of their tribal backgrounds of Yup'ik, Tsimshian, Confederated Salish and Kootenai.
Columbia City Gallery joins a growing movement to elevate the art and culture of Indigenous peoples here in the Pacific Northwest. This exhibit is curated by Kari Karsten, the Gallery manager and a member of the Seneca Nation.
“This work offers a glimpse into the complex history and contemporary experiences of Indigenous peoples. As an Indigenous person, I am proud to bring more multifaceted representation of Indigenous art and curation to Seattle.” –Kari Karsten
The Gallery is also launching a scholarship fund for BIPOC artists. By covering membership dues, which the Gallery needs to thrive, this scholarship will open up membership to more artists, regardless of ability to pay.
Learn more and contribute.
“arnaq, hana’ack, smɁem” will be up through June 18 – I hope you’ll plan a time to stop by the Gallery and see it. And if you can make it this weekend, you can meet the artists at the opening reception on
Saturday evening.
All the best,
Michael Seiwerath, Executive Director
