Resilient Seattle Gallerist Relaunches Leading Contemporary Gallery with New Name and a New Exhibition
Avery Barnes, a trailblazing young Seattle gallerist, says goodbye to TASWIRA, her former gallery and redefines the brand through a legacy-defining name change: Avery Barnes Gallery.
SEATTLE, WA – Avery Barnes, gallerist and 2023 Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree, is proud to announce the official evolution of her brand from TASWIRA to Avery Barnes Gallery. This name change marks a significant milestone in Barnes’ journey as a gallerist in the Pacific Northwest art market, transitioning from a rising entrepreneur to a primary stakeholder in contemporary art and cultural preservation.
Titled “The Connector” by Seattle Met magazine, Avery Barnes’ trajectory is a testament to radical resilience. After navigating significant adversity as a teenager, Barnes found her footing philanthropically in Kenya before launching her brick-and-mortar business in Seattle at just 22 years of age. Her leadership in the arts community has earned the admiration of prominent figures and resulted in high-level collaborations with and support from institutions such as the Obama Foundation, Microsoft, JP Morgan Chase, Disney, Global Leadership Exchange at the World Affairs Council, and the University of Washington. Through her unique approach for the modern gallery by positioning it as a strategic bridge between the art world and Seattle’s technical, academic, and philanthropic sectors. By intentionally integrating the creative economy with global industry leaders, Barnes has developed a mission for equitable storytelling that transcends traditional gallery boundaries.
“There is a seismic burst on First Avenue led by Avery Barnes Gallery. She has taken our local and international creatives from secret excellence to “cannot touch me now.” I cannot wait to hear the buzz of delight coming from everyone.” - Dr. Constance Rice, past chair University of Washington Board of Regents and former Chair of Seattle Art Museum.
“Avery Barnes brings clarity of vision, curatorial intelligence, and a strong sense of purpose to her work. Through her gallery, she has contributed meaningfully to Seattle’s contemporary arts community by helping foster successful careers for artists, cultivating engagement, and advancing thoughtful cultural dialogue. Her approach is distinguished by both ambition and discernment, with a clear investment in building something of substance and lasting value. This relaunch marks a significant moment in the continued evolution of her practice and affirms the strength of her voice within Seattle’s cultural landscape.”— José Carlos Diaz, Senior Director of Curatorial Affairs & Chief Curator, Pérez Art Museum Miami
“She is an emerging star receiving local, national and international recognition. Her uniquely positioned gallery is of immeasurable impact for artists, collectors and all who appreciate exceptional art of the African diaspora.” - Michael Parham, formerly a member of President Biden’s President’s Advisory Committee on the Arts.
“This rebrand signals a deep transformation and restructuring that will expand our horizons of storytelling.” says Barnes. “Centering the soul, transparency and emotional connection unifying humanity beyond layers of identity. What remains is the continuation of intertwining historical and indigenous references within the contemporary. I am deeply committed to representing and championing the inspiring work of “Seattle” artists within the global art world!”
The Debut Exhibition: You’ve Had It In You All Along
To celebrate this new chapter, Avery Barnes Gallery will host a monumental multi-generational exhibition featuring a "Powerhouse" roster of Seattle visionaries: Barbara Earl Thomas, Tariqa Waters, Cristina Martinez, Robert Wade, Maikoiyo Alley-Barnes, and Nahom Ghirmay.
Exhibition Dates: April 1, 2026 – June 7, 2026
You’ve Had It In You All Along is an affirmation of the inherent capability to weather any storm. The exhibition serves as a sanctuary and a vital reminder that the tools required to reach one's destination are already etched within the spirit. Through a multi-generational lens, the exhibiting artists explore resiliency and the truths found within the feminine, representing a lineage of activism and artistic output that have paved an enduring path for the Seattle landscape and beyond.
About Avery Barnes Gallery
Avery Barnes Gallery is a contemporary art gallery in Seattle, WA, dedicated to centering humanity through compelling exhibitions and diverse narratives. We champion artists who push boundaries across all mediums, broadening their impact through programming that intersects with technology and education.
Exhibition Programming:
- April 1: Private Opening Reception
- April 16: Public Panel Discussion (7:00 PM – 9:00 PM)
- May 28: The Art of Spoken Word – Public Poetry Event (6:00 PM – 8:30 PM)