This year, we are hosting our fundraising dinner Thrive at the beautiful WOW Gallery! In anticipation, we asked their team to share a little more about the space and its story:

Not only is WOW Gallery a beautiful event space, but it is also an art exhibit and a healing experience for the Black community. Can you tell us a little about the story behind WOW? How did it come to be?
 
WOW Gallery was born from a divine calling to create a sacred space where Black women, girls, and people can heal, be inspired, and find liberation through the power of storytelling and art. As an extension of Wonder of Women International, WOW Gallery is more than a gallery—it is a movement dedicated to inspiring Black women and girls to find their voice, stand in their truth, and celebrate their wonder by telling their story.

It is a sanctuary where Black people can see themselves reflected in a space of power, beauty, and affirmation. WOW Gallery is a living testament to our stories, struggles, and triumphs—a dedicated space that fosters healing, joy, and the reclamation of our collective narrative.
 

Why was art such a central piece of your vision?
 
Art is a powerful medium for healing, education, ancestry, and liberation. It allows us to reclaim narratives, express our truth, and leave a legacy that empowers and inspires generations. At WOW Gallery, art is not just about aesthetics—it is a tool for transformation.
 
The vision of Wonder of Women International is deeply rooted in storytelling, and art is one of the most profound ways to tell our stories. It ensures our voices will never be silenced.
 

The exhibit on display is Dear Sista, I See You by Veronica Very and Hiawatha D. What are some Black artists or pieces that inspired you in the making of the exhibit and the space?
 
The Dear Sista, I See You exhibit is deeply influenced by the rich tapestry of Black artistry and storytelling. Hiawatha D., known for his vibrant and evocative portraits, draws inspiration from a lineage of Black artists who have celebrated the resilience, power, and beauty of Black women.
 
We are especially inspired by iconic local Black women whose names may not be widely known but whose impact is undeniable—educator and poet Dr. Mona Lake Jones, entrepreneur and activist DeCharlene Williams, and the late Dr. Maxine Mimms, founder of Evergreen State College’s Tacoma campus. Our intention is to uplift the unsung sheroes whose stories deserve to be recognized and celebrated in community. Dear Sista, I See You is creating sacred space for those conversations and celebrations to take place.

 
What are some events that you host in the space, and how can people get involved?
 
WOW Gallery is more than an art space—it is a movement, a living and breathing experience of Black storytelling, truth-telling, and community healing. Our events center, affirm, and elevate Black women, girls, and people. We host storytelling circles, healing dialogues, artist talks, and transformative gatherings that foster connection, self-discovery, and liberation.
 
One of our signature experiences, The WOW Experience, invites guests into an immersive encounter with art, culture, and the deep truths of Black love and existence.
 
Community members can get involved by visiting the gallery, attending or hosting events, and supporting the mission of Wonder of Women International. This work is sustained by those who believe in the power of Black women and girls finding their voice, standing in their truth, and celebrating their wonder. Those who feel called to be part of this movement can also contribute through sponsorship, collaboration, or simply by showing up and standing in solidarity.

 
What is one of your favorite memories that you’ve created in the space thus far?
 
One of the most profound moments at WOW Gallery was a multigenerational storytelling gathering, where Black women, girls, and elders sat in a sacred circle, sharing wisdom, laughter, and tears. In this space, Black girls were held and affirmed by the voices of those who came before them, and elders were given the honor of witnessing their legacy live on.
 
It was a moment where the mission of Wonder of Women International came to life—where voices were found, truths were spoken, and wonder was celebrated.
 
There is always an unspoken understanding in the room that this space is more than an art gallery. It is an altar, a sanctuary, a homecoming for every Black woman, girl, and person who has ever longed to be seen, heard, and held in love. These are the moments that define WOW Gallery—where healing happens in real time, and the stories of Black people are honored as sacred, significant, and sovereign.
 

Is there anything else you’d like to share?
 
WOW Gallery is more than an art space—it is an uprising, a reclamation, a revolution. It is a love letter to Black humanity, inscribed in bold strokes, vibrant colors, and the resounding echoes of our ancestors.
 
This is a sacred offering to the Black community, rooted in love, light, liberation, and legacy. A sanctuary where our truth is honored, our stories are sacred, and our presence is power.
 
For those seeking connection, healing, and empowerment—this space was created for you, by you, because of you. Come and center yourself in the hope, healing, and harmony of Black Love. Stand in the unwavering truth that Black women, girls, and people deserve to be seen, celebrated, and centered in spaces that honor our divinity, our brilliance, and the wisdom of our wonder.

 

Thrive is happening on March 15, 6:00-9:00pm. We hope you are able to join us to experience WOW Gallery for yourself!