Woolworth Windows: An Artscape by Kenya Shakoor

Happy New Year! I hope you are finding beauty where you can and cultivating community. I’m excited to share my latest art installation at the Woolworth Windows in Downtown Tacoma! This installation is a retrospective of my photography, featuring works I’ve created from 2017 to 2023. As a visual artist and photographer, I think of my work as a labor of love—a way to tend to my love of self and my community. This installation is part of Spaceworks’ ArtScape program, which showcases the power of visual art in storefront windows, outdoor spaces, and an outdoor video gallery to enliven public areas.

About the Woolworth Windows

The Woolworth Windows provides a unique space where art meets the public. These iconic display windows are a canvas for artists to share their work with everyone who passes by, adding vibrancy and whimsy to Downtown Tacoma.

My Vision for This Installation

This installation is deeply personal to me, as it is a retrospective showcasing photographs I’ve taken from 2017 to 2023. Each piece reflects moments of care that have shaped my journey as an artist and individual. At this time seeing my work displayed in a public setting feels especially tender, and I hope you will find delight in discovering an image that reminds you of yourself or your loved ones.

The ArtScape Program by Spaceworks

Spaceworks’ ArtScape program is an initiative that transforms underused spaces into showcases for local art. Programs like these highlight how artists and communities need one another. Art thrives with an audience, and there are so many underutilized spaces that can bring people together to appreciate the beauty and joy of creativity.

Plan Your Visit

I invite you to come and experience my installation at the Woolworth Windows. Whether you’re a lifelong Tacoman or just visiting, this display offers a glimpse into Tacoma’s thriving creative scene. Stop by and take a look—you won’t want to miss it! My artwork is on display until March 13th, 2025. Let me know you’ve visited —I’d love to hear your thoughts and connect with you.

Washington State Artist Opportunities: Grants & Exhibitions Fall 2023

Reimagining Oshun, 2017, Digital photograph

Aside from photo work for clients, exhibiting my photography and receiving grants to fund said photography has been important part of my artistic journey. If sharing your work with the public and receiving funding is in alignment with your desires right now, I present two opportunities for artists in Washington State.

Opportunity 1:

Description: The 2nd Annual Black Artists Exhibition is an expanded opportunity for Black artists to share their work with the public and to dialogue with members of the community about their inspiration and how it is manifested in their artistry.

Opportunity Type: Exhibition

Paid or Unpaid: Unpaid

Organization: Tacoma Community College | Tacoma, WA

Application Deadline: October 25th, 2023

Guidelines: Open to Black artists who reside in South Puget Sound or who have a connection with the South Sound. See the full guidelines > here

Kenya’s tip / lived experience: I took part in this opportunity this year, and overall, it was a positive experience. As for whether I would apply again in the future, I have some reservations. Currently, engaging in unpaid exhibition opportunities doesn't align with my sustainability goals.

However, if I were to consider applying and participating again, I would approach it strategically. Specifically, I would use the exhibition as an integral component of a broader public relations campaign, either to promote a paid product available on my website or to support the promotion of a self-curated or artist-driven ticketed exhibition shortly after the TCC exhibition. This way, I can ensure that my participation contributes to my short and long-term goals.

Opportunity 2:

Description: The Bothell Arts Commission provides funding and support for the arts through a vision of connecting, supporting, and inspiring the community through arts and culture. The 2023/2024 Creative Arts Grant Program is a new program of work.

Opportunity Type: Reimbursement grant funding

Organization: City of Bothell | Bothell, WA

Application Deadline: September 15th, 2023 & April 12th, 2024

Guidelines: See the full guidelines > here

Kenya’s tip / lived experience: This marks the first round of funding from the Bothell Arts Commission, so I haven't had prior experience with this specific award. However, in the past, I had the chance to curate and participate in my inaugural exhibition thanks to a grant provided by the City of Tacoma Arts Commission. With reimbursement grants, thorough record-keeping is important.

What has been your own experience with unpaid exhibition opportunities and reimbursement grants? I believe there is a need for more forums where artists can engage in conversations with one another about the intricacies of building a liberating and sustainable artistic practice. Please feel free to share your thoughts with me by sending an email or commenting below. I would be genuinely delighted to hear your perspective.