SHUNPIKE STOREFRONTS SPOTLIGHTS BLACK ARTISTS ACROSS INSTALLATIONS + RESIDENCIES

In the heart of Seattle, where "For Lease" signs once signaled economic stagnation back in 2008, a vibrant transformation has been unfolding for the past 15 years. Shunpike's Storefronts & Artist Residencies program transforms empty commercial spaces into hubs for creativity and community engagement. In the latest cycles, the program has made a deliberate push to amplify BIPOC artists by providing them with high-visibility platforms to explore themes of identity, memory, and community resilience.

Several Black women have recently used these storefront windows to broadcast powerful visual stories to the public, including those currently on view:

• Erynne Byrd-Quigtar presents A GIRL LIKE ME at 1501 5th Ave, using the window to create a layered environment of self-reflection.

• Amara Eke's window art installation, This is Your Sign, at the corner of Mercer St. and Terry Ave., uses acrylic and canvas to bring symbols of luck and love to viewers.

• Tiana Monēt's rug installation Comfort Food at 1501 5th Ave, uses bold, indulgent colors throughout the display of a selection of favorite foods. oli

• Bilonda Mireille Rommel's installation, Acestral Threads at Thomas Street, employs geometric patterns, vibrant textiles, and ceremonial influences to create a visual language honoring tradition while inviting contemporary reflection

• Imani Sims created an installation, The Deck of NONE, at 1501 5th Ave, reimagining Black futures through tarot archetypes.

  
  

You can find the full listing of artists participating in the Storefronts & Residencies program on Shunpike's website and learn about upcoming events and more on their Instagram.