In the heart of Seattle, an innovative art installation invites visitors to reflect on themes of time and identity. At the Seattle Art Museum, multimedia artist Tariqa Waters presents "Venus Is Missing," a vibrant exhibit characterized by striking pink sculptures against deep blue backdrops. The centerpiece features an oversized barrette standing tall among guests and a whimsical spaceship floating upwards, surrounded by glass orbs and a shimmering disco sphere. This immersive experience transports audiences into a realm where nostalgia and contemporary thought converge.

As part of the broader cultural tapestry, "Venus Is Missing" coincides with the Black Arts Legacies (BAL) initiative's latest season, celebrating Seattle's influential African American artists. Through this program, writer Henry Jackson-Spieker explores the lives and works of both emerging and established creators. Among these is the late photographer Al Smith, whose extensive catalog captures the essence of Seattle’s jazz scene and middle-class Black life. His images offer a portal into history, inviting viewers to reconnect with the city’s past through his meticulously documented photographs archived at the Museum of History & Industry.

Beyond photography, BAL introduces audiences to sculptors like Henry Jackson-Spieker, whose interactive installations engage participants physically and emotionally. Another highlight includes choreographer Kisha Vaughan, who defies conventional timelines in dance, proving that passion and talent can flourish at any stage of life. Additionally, musician Kassa Overall bridges jazz and hip-hop traditions, showcasing rhythm as a universal language. Meanwhile, exhibitions honoring the legacies of artists such as Milt Simons and James W. Washington Jr. underscore the importance of preserving artistic heritage while fostering new generations. Together, these efforts create a dynamic network that enriches Seattle’s cultural landscape, inspiring all who encounter it.