07 Oct Seattle’s 13 art walks

Last month, Councilmember Licata launched Seattle Art Walks, a neighborhood resource web page highlighting 13 art walks throughout Seattle.

“Art walks are important to neighborhoods as they inspire visitors and residents to appreciate creativity within themselves and throughout their community,” said Licata.  “They also provide a convenient opportunity for people to socialize while generating revenue for artists and businesses.”

In September, the PI did a feature on the “competition” the neighborhood now faces, not just from other art walks, but from everyone else in the neighborhood. First Thursday has become the day to throw a party or host an event in the neighborhood.

For example, today, you can find the CoCA art auction, the annual party at TK Lofts, two alley parties — all in addition to the art in the park vendors and regular galleries and studios that participate in the walk.

Many feel that hosting all of these events on one day is over-saturating the neighborhood and creating competition for the art walk itself. Others feel that they’re planning their event on a very logical day — the neighborhood is already flooded with people — why not give them more things to do?

I can’t speak for anyone else, but as a resident, I love having so many events to go to, and love the atmosphere that’s created every month — people bustling around, socializing, (hopefully) feeling safe in the neighborhood, and bringing business to the neighborhood.

p.s. While you’re down here, don’t forget to check out the HUGE mural on 2nd and Yesler.