On Saturday, September 17th, Arte Noir celebrated its grand opening in the main hub of Central District’s 23rd Avenue and Cherry Street.  Founder Vivian Phillips and CEO Jazmyn Scott celebrated with Seattle residents throughout the day, showcasing a vast space that serves to propel Black art and culture.  Their first day brimmed with activity, featuring a variety of Black-owned products – from children’s books to apothecary products - and providing a full-scale gallery of artwork made by Black artists.

Arte Noir’s grand opening took place on Wa Na Wari’s second annual Walk the Block event, which spanned four blocks from 23rd Avenue and Union Street to Cherry Street.   The adjoining plaza was encased in one of many portions of Walk the block festivities, featuring music performances, arts and crafts, prizes, and a 360-degree photo booth.  Phillips and Scott spent much of their frenzied day greeting and celebrating with residents and patrons.

Arte Noir began as an online publication in 2021, dedicated to honoring, acknowledging, and fostering Black artistry, as well as to giving rise to societally dampened voices in the community. In doing so, the history of Black culture and its vast contributions Seattle-wide are given an important platform to educate residents on a foundational history, both locally and internationally. The expansive space also serves as a platform and marketplace for Black and Indigenous entrepreneurs and artists.

For more information, please visit:  https://www.artenoir.org/

Photos by Jordan Somers