Art in Storefronts Spring 2025, “Awaken”
We are pleased to announce “Awaken” – a new exhibition of artworks by local artists that will be on view now through July 2025, in the windows of the Goldberg Building at Capitol Way at Fourth Avenue, downtown Olympia. The community is invited to the Opening Event - Artist Talk & Reception, Saturday, April 26, at noon at the Goldberg Building.
The exhibition features work from Chiyo Sanada, Veronica Luna, Emely (TIAGA) and Fern Tallos.
We invited Olympia-area artists on the beauty, challenges and hope the Spring season awakens in our community.
Artist: Chiyo Sanada
Title: AWAKEN – KAKUSEI
My passion for Japanese calligraphy (Shodo) has never wavered. Since moving to America 25 years ago, I’ve joyfully blended traditional techniques with contemporary styles—always exploring, always sharing my love of Shodo.
Shodo became my bridge to this new life in America. It’s been my magic tool for connecting with others. The diverse culture, creativity, and spirit of expression I found here continue to shape my work and inspire my mission:
to use Shodo to connect people across cultures.
A Journey from Hiroshima to the World
I grew up in Hiroshima and began Shodo lessons at age seven, guided by a kind-hearted neighborhood teacher. My mother insisted I learn calligraphy, saying, “Good penmanship is necessary." What began as an after-school activity quickly became a lifelong passion.
Creating art for my family—especially my grandma (Obachan)—filled me with joy. By age 17, I knew I wanted to become a teacher and share the joy of Shodo with people around the world.
The Philosophy in Every Stroke
Japanese calligraphy is more than words—it's a visual and spiritual art form. Every brushstroke is an expression of strength, delicacy, and inner emotion, deeply tied to the philosophy of Japanese culture.
When I hold the brush, my heart finds stillness. And when the ink touches paper, it becomes alive with energy and intention. I follow the flow of nature and emotion, letting them guide my hand.
One of my guiding principles is the Japanese idiom:
“Ichi-go ichi-e” – Treasure every encounter, for it will never happen the same way again.
In Shodo, no piece can be perfectly replicated. I may fill pages with practice, but when my heart, brush, ink, and paper align—that’s when I know I’ve created the one.
Connect with Chiyo Sanada
www.chiyosanada.com
Instagram: @chiyosanada
Artist: Fern Tallos
Title: Spring Garden
Fern Tallos is a self-taught painter, muralist, and craftsperson based in Olympia, Washington. Since childhood, Fern has felt an insatiable need to paint—a pure drive to create for creation’s sake. Painting has become both a form of therapy and self-care, and it remains their most enduring and personal practice.
Their work is deeply influenced by the symbolism that repeats in both waking and dream life, weaving together emotion, memory, and meaning with every brushstroke.
About “Spring Garden”
“Spring Garden” celebrates Fern’s favorite subject: flowers. As a gardener, herbalist, and plant lover, Fern draws direct inspiration from their own garden. This piece expresses the joy and gaiety of those first springtime blooms—bright, bold reminders of the world reawakening after winter's long slumber.
The work invites us to pause, breathe deeply, and feel the promise of longer days and renewed connection to nature.
Connect with Fern Tallos
www.ferntallos.com
@painterfern
Explore more of Fern’s paintings, discover their vibrant Olympia murals, and see how their art continues to bloom across the city.
Artist: Emely (TAIGA)
Title: Rising Above
Hi, I’m Emely, a queer artist passionate about exploring the intersection of mental health and the LGBTQ+ experience through art.
Rising Above is a personal tribute—an ode to the beautiful Pacific Northwest, a place that has welcomed me fully and inspired deep reflection. This piece reflects both gratitude and a call to conversation about the region’s sacred natural spaces.
Art with Purpose—and Possibility
Art has the power to heal, connect, and speak when words fall short—and I believe art can come from anything.
Each piece in this collection was created using recycled, re-used, or thrifted materials gathered over several years.
This process is a reminder that art is accessible to everyone. It’s not just a product, but a form of communication—a way to rise above, express identity, and connect through shared humanity.
Connect with Emely (TAIGA)
Instagram: @taigatta
Follow along for more works that blend creativity, community, and environmental mindfulness.
Artist: Veronica Luna
Title: Sense Awakening
Sense Awakening is a site-responsive installation that explores the layered nature of human perception. Crafted with textile, light, and paint, this immersive piece represents the full spectrum of our bodily senses—bridging internal awareness with external experience.
Inspired by hope for the future, Sense Awakening invites viewers to reflect on how we process the world—how we sense, interact, and connect with ourselves, our environments, and all living beings.
About the Artist
Veronica Luna is an illustrator and surface pattern designer who brings together clean lines, bold color, and a sense of wonder to celebrate the magic in everyday life and the natural world.
A self-taught artist with a background in science, Veronica’s work is infused with curiosity, care, and intentionality. Her creative process is playful yet purposeful—grounded in ethical, sustainable values and driven by a love of learning.
Through her art, she seeks to spark delight, encourage reflection, and create joyful, inspiring spaces that nurture curiosity, confidence, and courage.
Explore More of Veronica’s Work
Website: popelephant.com
Project Page: Sense Awakening
Instagram: @pop.elephant