#WonderIsComing - This story is a part of Back2Besa’s look back and love letter to WOW Gallery after the recent closure of its Pacific Place Mall location.

Besa Gordon toured the WOW Gallery with founders Veronica Very and Hiawatha D., and took in the rich art, resources, and energy the institution has brought to Seattle and the Black community for four years. WOW Gallery’s vibrant colors represent “the motherland” and are present in every piece of art. The gallery was a space that felt warm and welcoming due to the palpable energy of ancestors, elders, and queens that culminated its mission. It served as a reminder to take time for rest, reflection, and remembrance.

Backed by unprecedented community support, the gallery was even supported by Microsoft's Black employees, known as BAM (Black at Microsoft), who contributed by cleaning the gallery’s floors out of appreciation for WOW. The space provided an opportunity to reframe and redirect narratives about Black people, fostering healing, education, ancestry, and liberation.

Besa emphasizes that the gallery is not just an exhibition space, but a place where individuals can experience deep emotional and spiritual healing. This nurturing environment helps people acknowledge and process trauma, offering a sanctuary for self-care, empowerment, and safety through trying times.

Catch Back2Besa every Saturday at 10:30 p.m. on FOX 13 Seattle and Sundays at 10 a.m. and 8 p.m. on FOX 13+. Viewers can also stream episodes anytime on the FOX Local app.

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