The broad range and endless imagination of wood artists in the Pacific Northwest is abundantly evident in Center on Contemporary Art’s new group exhibition in Pioneer Square. Notwithstanding the region’s strong identity as a center for glass art, wood extends farther into the past with a rich indigenous tradition (Salish and beyond). Curated by L. Kelly Lyles, Knock on Wood features the work of 34 artists from around the region (complete list follows below). Both opening receptions on First Thursdays in March and April are free to attend, with support from 4culture’s Public Free Access grant.

The exhibition’s title refers to the superstition, perhaps first used by the Celts, that knocking on trees might wake the spirits inside, thus providing protection or scaring away evil spirits. Curatorial advisor and artist Joel Colvos recognizes how wood is “a material of paradox: both common and precious, temporary yet long-lasting and remarkably pliable,” in essence a metaphor for the creative process. Perhaps surprisingly (or not!), Knock on Wood includes many women artists in contrast to the stereotypes of lumberjacks or craftsmen.