PUBLIC BENEFIT GALLERY

The Public Benefit Gallery is a centerpiece of the gallery’s outreach. The artistic substance of these shows derives from the diverse backgrounds and needs of those showing their work, whether it is watercolors by the elderly, zines by youth, acrylic paintings in the style of traditional Indian art, skilled representational works by justice involved veterans, or children from Israel/Palestine expressing their hopes for peace and justice.

Revision Art’s “Please Touch,” art made by people with low or no vision and other disabilities. One participant was covered on “KIRO Tonight,” reaching thousands of viewers. The exhibit was a big hit with visitors, especially groups of school children who were amazed they could touch the artwork.

Ukrainian Association of Washington’s “Arts & Crafts of Ukraine.” In December 2023, the Public Benefit Gallery featured Ukrainian traditional clothing, Christmas gifts and ornaments, fine art paintings, prints, and other visual art, weaving, wood working, and ceramics. Excited visitors in the Christmas mood and wanting to support Ukraine in its war with Russia resulted in impressive sales allowing the gallery to help raise over $5,000 for the Association.

Oasis of Peace and Seattle Gaza Mutual Aid, “Palestinians and Jews Working for Peace.” Early in the war in Gaza, many visitors benefited by experiencing the humanity of Palestinian and Jewish children affected by the war. Exhibited were over forty student artworks made for this show in an intentional village in Israel, Oasis of Peace. Here they learn each other’s language and customs and how to work for peace and equality. Also exhibited were four recently made powerful artworks by Palestinian children whose school had just been destroyed.

Peyvand’s “Stories of Resilience: Artistry of Iranian Women,”
Art created and curated by Iranian women.

Path With Art’s “Queer Visions.”
Path With Art serves those with mental health issues. In this show it focused on Queer persons who, through art, expressed their struggles and joys finding acceptance.

Ground Zero Radio’s “Being, Destroying, and Reviving.” Ground Zero is a youth-led media group creating podcasts, documentaries, studio recordings, and visual art to empower youth.

Where Eagles Dare: A collaboration of Veteran and Civilian Captive Artists.This show was in collaboration with the local non-profit, A Touch of Light, who’s mission is to help incarcerated artists to feel like they can be a positive contribution to their community and the families of incarcerated artists.