Meet the designers and creatives!

Where heritage, fashion, and freedom meet. Along the historic Woolworth storefront windows at the corner of 11th and Broadway in Downtown Tacoma, Threads of Freedom transforms the streetscape into an open-air gallery celebrating the creativity, culture, and innovation of Pacific Northwest designers and artists of the African diaspora. On view June 1–30, 2026, this curated Designer & Creative Expression Showcase features wearable art, fashion collections, accessories, photography, and visual works displayed throughout the windows of the former department store. Through craftsmanship, storytelling, and artistic expression, each installation invites passersby to engage with themes of heritage, identity, resilience, and freedom—making art and fashion accessible to the entire community.

 FEATURED CREATIVES: 

1. Ruth Esther Oneoak  

2. Summer Winter Fall (SWF) Seasons Clothing 

3. Natty Dread Illustration  

4. MoChic Designz 

5. Jonarra Swanson 

6. LeEcia Farmer 

7. Shalom Aburu 

8. Atiwo  

9. Flyyest Hat Company 

10. Her Candy Shop 

11. Thread Goldz 

12. Heartwear Collective 

13. Photography With Antwan Sinai 

Special thanks to our sponsors and partners - City of Tacoma Arts Commission, Washington State Microenterprise Association (WSMA), The Lumora and SpaceWorks!  

Curated by: Zakiya Nicole, Executive Director,  Visionary and Founder of The Chayah Movement 

Interested in being a featured Designer or Creative in the future? Complete the following form HERE.

 Expanding the experience, Roots & Radiance Market activates in Seattle during FIFA weekend, creating a vibrant marketplace that brings together Black and African creatives, makers, and entrepreneurs.

Grounded in the values of Umoja (unity) and Ujamaa (cooperative economics), the market celebrates:

• Creative entrepreneurship
• Cultural exchange
• Community gathering through fashion, art, beauty, and handmade goods

Timed with a global moment, Roots & Radiance Market welcomes both local and international audiences to experience culture, connection, and joy.

Check out "Threads of Freedom 2026 - Roots & Radiance Market" on Eventbrite!

Date: Sat, Jun 20, 12:00 PM - 6:00 PM

Location: Art Love Salon

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/threads-of-freedom-2026-roots-radiance-market-tickets-1987867863291

Interested in Vending or Performing? Complete the following form HERE.

The showcase culminates in a closing celebration at The Lumora in Downtown Tacoma, bringing the exhibition to life while being hosted in a space with proximity to the showcase for a last viewing opportunity:

• An artist talk with participating designers
• Live performances and creative expression
• A welcoming community gathering honoring Juneteenth
  

This Tacoma experience centers reflection, dialogue, and celebration—inviting audiences of all backgrounds to engage with fashion as a living expression of heritage and liberation.

Check out "Threads of Freedom Showcase 2026 - Meet the Artists and Celebration" on Eventbrite!

Date: Thu, Jun 25, 6:00 PM

Location: The Lumora

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/threads-of-freedom-showcase-2026-meet-the-artists-and-celebration-tickets-1987664536134

Interested in Vending or Performing? Complete the following form HERE.