RECAP: 2024 CACHET Spaceworks Fundraiser

Founded in 2010, Spaceworks Tacoma has grown to be a pivotal partner in many Tacoma artist’s careers. The program has helped artists and curators launch their businesses and has instilled beauty to vacant storefronts through the rapid mural project, giving Tacoma a refreshing perspective.

Each year, Spaceworks hosts a summer fundraiser called CACHET: Made in Tacoma. This event provides the community an opportunity to network, catch-up with alumni, enjoy delicious food, and give back to Spaceworks through monetary donations. Because Spaceworks is made possible through grants, the money received from CACHET is unrestricted funds which can be used for other aspects of the program, besides keeping it in business.

This year’s fundraiser took place at the historic Tin Can Alley, the signature bright pink building located by the Tacoma Dome. The night was filled with color, Tacoma pride, creative cocktail outfits, and of course, much art. Attendees were welcomed into the venue by an extraordinary display of decor provided by Tin Can Alley. Once you made your way past the Almond Roca table of goodness and the luxurious graze of food provided by Jan Parker Cookery, guests were able to check out the 'Off the Wall' exhibit filled with canvasses of original art provided by Spaceworks alumni. Each piece of art was hand painted by the respective artist and had one criterion: the art had to reflect Downtown Tacoma. This included nods to the Tacoma Dome, Sasquatch himself, Port of Tacoma bridge, Glass Musuem, Union Station, and many other Downtown staples. 

A silent auction was displayed for guests to try their luck whilst sipping on a signature mocktail provided by Aafiya Lounge, beer from 7 Seas Brewing, and wine from OBK Winery. The silent auction proved to be a popular attraction of the night as the selection featured curated products and services from beloved Tacoma artists. As the evening continued, attendees enjoyed cake bites provided by Love by The Slice and took advantage of the photo op in front of the marquee heart

Emcees, Chris Staudinger of Pretty Gritty Tours, and Jeremy Hamel of Velvetone Events, kept the audience engaged with many laughs and interesting Tacoma knowledge throughout the night. Soon enough, it was time for the live auction where eight memorable auction items went to the highest bidder, all of whom were greatly appreciative of Spaceworks. One of the memorable live auction items proved to be the tickets to stay overnight at Court House Square for a night of scary stories, Halloween movies, and ghost hunting. The 30 tickets available for this particular auction item were quickly snatched up by excited bidders.

This year's CACHET was truly one for the books! Thanks to the incredible generosity of the donors and the dedication of the volunteers, we’ve made another year possible of Woolworth Window installations, murals, and invaluable business training and support. Together, we’re making a real impact in the support of small businesses and paid artist opportunities. 

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Stay tuned for updates throughout the year on how your support continues to make a difference in Tacoma! If you would like to contribute to making Tacoma culturally vibrant and economically strong, text ‘spaceworks’ to 56651 to donate.