Exhibitions
Long dismissed as mere “idle talk,” gossip has historically been trivialized—particularly when associated with women and feminized voices. Yet, this practice holds profound cultural and political significance. Across generations and geographies, gossip has functioned as a vital conduit for knowledge transmission, memory-making, and community-building. It has served as a discreet but powerful tool through which women and queer individuals have shared oral histories, preserved ancestral wisdom, and cultivated collective identities.
Gossip: Between Us, an exhibition curated by Rebecca and Jack Benaroya Curator, Victoria Miles, and organized by Tacoma Art Museum, draws from the museum’s permanent collection to spotlight women and queer artists—particularly those whose work embodies this tradition. Featuring works by Barbara Kruger, Joyce J. Scott, Carrie Mae Weems, and more, These artists engage in gossip not only as subject matter but as methodology, embedding within their work the textures of lived experience, cultural memory, and communal care.
The exhibition is split into four subthemes: Precious Jewelry, The Home and Its Pysche, Intimacy, Sexuality and Spirituality and Playing with Tradition. Gossip: Between Us is accompanied by a zine, featuring original artwork from Yvonne McCoy, Rahel Süßkind, and Rae Whitlock, exploring thematic sections and ideas of the exhibition. There will be multiple rotations of work throughout the exhibition’s run, so check back for more information.
Gossip: Between Us is organized by Tacoma Art Museum and curated by Victoria Miles, Rebecca and Jack Benaroya Curator. Supported by Tacoma Creates, Artsfund, and Museum members.