Exhibitions
Organized by SOLA (Support of Old Lady Artists), TAM presents Decades in the Making: 10 Years of SOLA Awardees, an exhibition celebrating the lasting impact of mature women artists across Washington State. On view from July 18 through February 14, 2027, the exhibition brings together a decade of work by artists recognized through SOLA’s peer-selected awards—artists whose sustained practices, experimentation, and vision have helped shape the cultural landscape of the Pacific Northwest.
“This exhibition honors the remarkable women artists selected by their peers as SOLA Awardees,” said Nichole DeMent, Executive Director of SOLA. “It reflects SOLA’s core belief in celebrating artists for their lifelong dedication to creative practice and ensuring their work is seen, valued, and remembered.”
“Decades in the Making celebrates artists whose decades-long commitment to their creative practices have enriched the cultural and artistic landscape of Washington State,” said Jessica Wilks, Director of Curatorial at Tacoma Art Museum. “This exhibition honors their artistic achievements while recognizing SOLA’s important role in championing mature women artists. We are proud to partner with SOLA to share these remarkable works and the stories behind them with our community.”
Founded in 2016 by Ginny Ruffner and Marge Levy, SOLA (Support of Old Lady Artists) uplifts and honors the contributions of mature women artists across Washington State. What began as a single $1,000 award has grown into a statewide movement that includesfive annual $5,000 awards, professional Video Spotlights, and a growing digital archive dedicated to preserving these artists’ stories. Decades in the Making presents a dynamic survey of past awardees, reflecting the diversity, depth, and persistence of women whose creative practices span decades. The exhibition will also include community gatherings and public programs developed in partnership with Tacoma Art Museum.