A Letter from the Director
I’ve struggled to encapsulate this year into a few paragraphs. I feel it is impossible to give you a full accounting of everything the Pan Eros Foundation has worked on this year without going on for pages. So I will settle on the briefest of summaries.
At the beginning of 2018, we announced the birth of Gallery Erato, a storefront in Pioneer Square that showcases erotic art year round and has begun to serve as an event space for sex positive groups and communities. Over the course of the year we have added stages, air filtration systems, specialty lighting, and done so much work to create a space where people can feel sexy and safe to be their authentic selves. More and more groups are renting Gallery Erato, and we are working with these groups to keep improving the space. Long term goals include a catering kitchen and more ADA accessibility, both of which will require more fundraising.
All of our programs are thriving and serving the community with education, resources, and a chance for connection. The Consent Academy continues to grow, offering more services to communities throughout North America. The Seattle Erotic Art Festival is entering its 17th year with the Call For Art open. Our education program continues to collaborate with educators from around the country to share their knowledge and expertise with Seattle area explorers. The Seattle Erotic Cinema Society had its second film festival and teamed up with CineKink for a special showing. The Pan Eros Library is undergoing a substantial change from a browsing library to a research library. Please keep tuned for more information about this project.
This year has been incredibly exciting, with the requisite stress that accompanies all change. The joy of finding a beautiful building that our communities can call home helps mitigate that stress.
Thank you for all the support you have given us this year. Every time you buy a ticket, make a donation, share information about us on social media, and volunteer your time or skills, it is a valuable contribution to the work we are doing to make the world a safer, more accepting place for people of all genders and sexual orientations. If you have more to give, please add the Pan Eros Foundation to your list of charities for your end of year giving. As a 501(c)3 non-profit, your donation is tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law.
You can learn of the many ways you can support Pan Eros here, or you can donate directly online using a credit card here. You are also welcome to give me a call at 206-229-2185 to arrange to drop off a check or cash. I would love to be able to thank you in person for your donation.
Wishing you the warmest, most loving of seasons,
Sophia Iannicelli
Shenaniganarian-in-Chief
Photo by Alison Douglas at Seduction 2018.