In Seattle's historic Central District — a neighborhood with deep roots in the city's Black community — a vibrant new cultural institution is creating something that has been missing for far too long: a permanent home for Black art and artists. Arte Noir, located at Midtown Square on East Union Street, has quickly become one of the Pacific Northwest's most exciting arts destinations.
From Online Publication to Cultural Hub
Arte Noir began in May 2021 as an online publication dedicated to showcasing and uplifting Black art, artists, and culture. Founded by Vivian Phillips — an arts leader with decades of experience working and advocating on behalf of Seattle's creative community — the project quickly outgrew its digital origins.
Incorporated as a nonprofit arts organization in June 2021, Arte Noir soon opened a brick-and-mortar space in the Central District under the leadership of Executive Director Jazmyn Scott. What started as a digital platform has blossomed into a dynamic physical hub that features a fine art gallery, a museum-style gift shop, and growing programming that brings the community together through creativity.
Art, Commerce, and Community
Arte Noir's model is as innovative as its programming. The state-of-the-art gallery anchors a connection to the Black community, creating exhibition space where Black artists can showcase and sell their work in a neighborhood where they have deep historical ties. The gallery hosts rotating exhibitions that spotlight emerging and established artists from across the African diaspora.
The gift shop operates on a principle that puts artists first: all products are made by Black creatives who receive one hundred percent of net proceeds from their sales. From art prints and beauty products to jewelry and books, every purchase directly supports the makers who created it — a model that amplifies Black ownership and economic impact in a way few other organizations can match.
Arte Noir also publishes Black Canvas, a monthly editorial magazine that spotlights art and stories shaping the culture, with each edition offering a closer look at one featured creator's inspiration and vision.
Expanding the Vision
The organization continues to grow. The Barbara Earl Thomas Maker Space will soon be available for classes, workshops, and artists, providing hands-on creative resources for the community. The Source of Labor Recording Studio — built in honor of the late Jonathan Moore and hosted in partnership with The Residency — offers a barrier-free zone for youth to explore creative expression through music production.
Midtown Square programming extends the cultural experience outdoors with dance, fitness, concerts, pop-up markets, fashion shows, chef dinners, and more, all with community building at the core. Arte Noir also maintains a Black Artist Roster, a singular location for artists to discover and apply for public and private art commissions, speaking engagements, residencies, and workshops.
A Model for the Future
"Arte Noir envisions a world where the creativity rooted in the culture of the African diaspora illuminates new possibilities and realities for all," the organization shares. It's a bold vision, and one that is already taking shape in the Central District.
Arte Noir is open Wednesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 6 p.m. at 2301 East Union Street, Suite H, Seattle. Whether you're a collector, a curious neighbor, or a visitor discovering the Central District for the first time, Arte Noir invites you to experience the soulful power of Black art in a space built to celebrate it.