Sandvig, Emminger, & Weiss

This month, Traver Gallery presents two related exhibitions opening on March 7 from 2–4 pm. Once Upon a Plate features collaborative painted ceramic plates by Elizabeth Sandvig, Dick Weiss, and Joe Max Emminger. Alongside this presentation, I Surprise Myself* brings together paintings, prints, and ceramics by Elizabeth Sandvig (1937–2024).

If you live in the Pacific Northwest, you are likely familiar with the work of Joe Max Emminger, Elizabeth Sandvig, and Dick Weiss. Their imagery is instantly recognizable and deeply woven into Seattle’s visual culture. Each artist has built a long and respected career, and all three are known not only for their work but for their generosity, mentorship, and presence in the region.

Emminger, Sandvig, and Weiss first presented their collaborative works at Traver Gallery in March 2024, where they were met with excitement and success. Following that exhibition, the artists continued to meet weekly, developing the series, making richly hued, spirited paintings shaped as much by friendship as by craft. Sandvig’s sunporch, with a small table covered with newsprint, brushes, and enamel paints, became a shared studio. Part coffee gathering, part critique, their painting sessions were filled with laughter, conversation, and storytelling.

Every week, they gathered at Liz’s to paint until her sudden passing in late 2024. Following her death, Joe and Dick found solace in carrying the project forward. Once Upon a Plate presents works created by all three artists alongside new plates by Weiss and Emminger. Many of these new works carry traces of Sandvig’s presence. At times, they echo her imagery, reference her animals, or respond to her sense of color and space. The process became a way to remember and remain in conversation with her. The works reflect an ongoing exchange shaped by humor, care, and shared history.

We are honored to share these two exhibitions and hope you’ll join us in the gallery this month to immerse yourself in the brilliant life and work of Elizabeth Sandvig, and to find joy in the exuberant collaborations of Emminger, Sandvig, and Weiss.

*Sandvig’s exhibition title is a reference to the book The Art of Elizabeth Sandvig (2007) by Regina Hackett, which was produced by her long-time gallerist and friend, Francine Seders.