Venues for Artists in the Local Area
WHO WE ARE
VALA, Venues for Artists in the Local Area, is a 501c3, non-profit arts organization founded in Redmond, WA.
MISSION
Connecting artists to artists, artists to the community, and the community to art.
VISION
VALA Eastside aspires to provide a cherished “third place” for artists and community alike—a sanctuary beyond home and work, where diverse forms of art flourish, and connections deepen. In this vibrant space, artists connect with peers, and communities discover new artistic horizons. Through art, we communicate, understand, and unite in unprecedented ways. We provide opportunities for artists to begin their journey, or for more experienced artists to explore new territory. The goal is to spark conversation and galvanize change through themed group exhibits, artist chats, workshops, and other events and programs. Together, we attempt to shine a light on the Eastside’s burgeoning art scene, and beyond.
PUBLIC BENEFIT
VALA Eastside embraces a wide spectrum of diversities, including race, gender, sexual orientation, and neurology. We also champion multiple disciplines―from traditional fine arts and crafts to digital arts, written/spoken word, and performance. Utilizing every venue available, we create spaces for local artists. Collaborating with other nonprofits, local government, and the broader community, we pursue our mission of “connecting artists to artists, artists to the community, and the community to art.” This mission is realized, in part, by spotlighting local artists eager to engage with the community in impactful ways.
BRIEF HISTORY
VALA was founded in 2010 by Jessica Kravitz and John Lambert. VALA creates partnerships with local businesses and organizations to create non-traditional venues for artists. VALA’s mission to connect artists to artists, artists to the community, and the community to art is achieved by featuring local artists who are interested in connecting to the community in meaningful ways. VALA connects artists to artists through the VALA Artist to Artist Series, which spotlights featured artists to discuss their inspiration and process with other artists and is open to the local community. VALA further connects the community to artists by facilitating events and programs that invites community members to create art alongside featured artists.
MAILING ADDRESS
VALA Eastside
7345 164th Ave NE
#145-167
Redmond, WA 98052
VALA ART CENTER
VALA Art Center
8020 161st Avenue NE, #104
Redmond, WA 98052
Near Downtown Redmond Park, one block away from the Redmond Transit Center, next to Starbuck pickup location.
Meet the Team
Jessica - photo by Marisa Mouton Provo
Jessica Kravitz, President
Jessica is a Washington Bar Candidate (recent law school grad) and visual art curator. She serves on the OneRedmond Foundation Board of Directors and is a partner at Ryan James Fine Arts Gallery. As a former City of Redmond Arts and Culture Commissioner and docent at the Seattle Art Museum, Jessica is in touch with current and historical artistic and cultural sensibilities. Jessica strives to advocate for art both in our daily lives and as a method of self-expression available to anyone who wants to create it.
Laura Lee - photo by Marisa Mouton Provo
Laura Lee Bennett, Events Coordinator
Laura Lee Bennett is a writer, editor, and poet. She is a past board president of the Redmond Association of Spokenword (RASP) and has been involved in many local poetry events. Laura Lee has been a "VALAnteer" since 2016, and recently joined the VALA Board as Events Coordinator. She believes in the galvanizing power of close literary and arts communities.
Latha Sambamurti - photo by Katherine Wickhorst
Latha Sambamurti, Artistic Development Director
Latha Sambamurti is the producer and Artistic, Outreach and Development Director of several large-scale arts and culture festivals in Washington. She is an educator, trained musician , band leader, and winner of Kirkland Performance Center’s You Rock award for community service. Sambamurti has been a Washington State Arts Commissioner and currently a Redmond Arts & Culture Commissioner. She serves as a board director for several state and regional cultural organizations. Sambamurti holds a master’s degree in English Literature.
Eva Moon - Photo by Eva Moon
Eva Moon, Board Member
Eva Moon is an author, songwriter, playwright, screenwriter, performer, and former Huffington Post blogger. Her plays and musicals have been staged across the US and UK, and her solo musical, “The Mutant Diaries: Unzipping My Genes” is streaming on Amazon. Her award-winning novel, Pinocchio’s Guide to the End of the World, was published in 2023. She was a longtime volunteer coordinator for VALA and served two terms on the Redmond Arts & Culture Commission. Learn more at: evamoon.net.
Suzie Bradford - photo by Annie Evasick
Suzie Bradford, Board Member
Suzie Bradford, a seasoned musician and performer, has made significant strides in the West Coast music scene. She led the popular Seattle band “The Side Project,” and later “Goodnight Suzie.” Her music has been featured nationwide and she has performed at various events and venues across the West Coast. Suzie has also successfully fundraised for several campaigns, including a music scholarship for youth. As a board member of VALA, Suzie brings her extensive experience and passion for the arts to the forefront. Learn more at: goodnightsuzie.com.
Ryan James, Board Member
Ryan James is Gallery Director at ryan james fine arts, founded in 2011. ryan james fine arts, showcases both known and emerging artists specializing in abstract, modern and conceptual arts. A champion for arts on the Eastside, Ryan served on the Bellevue Arts Museum Board of Trustees, Kirkland Art Center Board of Directors and is the former Kirkland Cultural Arts Commission Chair. This award-winning art advocate and curator has been widely acknowledged for his excellence in the field, with his gallery earning Best Art Gallery from 425 Magazine for eight consecutive years.
Devika - Photo by Devika Kapoor
Devika Kapoor, Board Member
Devika is an artist, educator, and community arts advocate dedicated to using art as a tool for creativity, connection, and cultural preservation. For over 11 years, she's taught children and adults through her art school in Redmond, Paint a Style, encouraging exploration and confidence through hands-on experiences. She specializes in both contemporary art and traditional Indian folk styles, teaching not just technique, but heritage and storytelling. She has led community initiatives, bringing people together through shared expression. “Art is a bridge—one that fosters empathy, celebrates diversity, and strengthens the creative fabric of our community."
Q & A
Your Guide to Artistic Opportunities
Welcome to the VALA Art Center Q&A! Here, you'll find answers to frequently asked questions about our organization, events, and opportunities for artists and art enthusiasts alike. Learn more about our mission, how to participate in exhibitions, workshops, and performances, and how to propose your own creative events at VALA. Let's connect, create, and celebrate art together!
1
What is VALA?
VALA (Venues for Artists in the Local Area) is a non-profit arts organization based in Redmond, WA. Our mission is to connect artists to each other and the community while promoting art in the Eastside community of Seattle through events, workshops, and showcases.
2
Are there classes at VALA?
VALA doesn't offer regular classes, but hosts workshops and events on various art-related topics, including painting, drawing, sewing, felting, bookbinding, crocheting, artist chats, and discussions.
3
VALA Art Center a gallery?
The VALA Art Center exhibits art but is not a gallery. Unlike galleries, which sell art, VALA events are typically free for artists and the public. If someone is interested in purchasing art, they are connected directly with the artist.
4
How can I display my art at VALA or VALA events?
VALA periodically announces artist calls for exhibitions and events. Submit your work to be considered. Except for fundraisers and the Redmond Arts Festival, participation is free for artists and the public.
5
Can I perform at VALA?
Submit a one-page proposal for a performance at least two months in advance. Include a description, community impact, performer introduction, and any additional support needed from VALA. Note that events should be free to the public.
6
Can I have a book launch/signing at VALA?
Submit a one-page proposal for your book launch at least two months in advance. Include event details, community impact, author introduction, and additional support needed from VALA. Events should be free to the public.