33 Artists Market, one of Spokane’s most beloved artists markets, is stepping into a new chapter. Founder Gwyn Pevonka, who established the market as a deeply community-centered space for emerging and established artists, is passing the torch to Scott and Irene Kelly, longtime supporters of the market.
The market’s transition is more than a leadership change. It’s the beginning of a new era that includes nonprofit, expanded opportunities for artists, and a continued commitment to the warmth, intentionality, and connection that have made 33 Artists Market stand out in Spokane’s creative landscape.
We sat down with Gwen, Irene, and Scott to talk about the transition, their shared vision, and what the community can expect moving forward.
TNW: Gwyn, you founded 33 Artists Market. What prompted you to choose Scott and Irene to continue the mission?
GP: Scott and Irene have been with the market since the very beginning so there was already this foundation of trust. They understood what the market was, where it started, and where it could go.
What stood out most was that they shared the same heart for community. They understand the warmth and connection that define the market. And when I announced on November 1 that I would be stepping away, they emailed me within hours.
I never wanted the market to end, but I knew I couldn’t lead it alone anymore. Seeing their eagerness, their sincerity, and their alignment with the mission made the decision incredibly easy. They want to carry this forward with the same intention I founded it with and they absolutely can.
TNW: What drew you to 33 Artists Market, and what made you feel called to take on this role?
IK: From the first moment we walked in, we felt something special. The warmth, the community, it’s different from other markets. Artists are supported, celebrated, and encouraged to share not just their work, but their stories. Gwyn was always present, connecting with people, uplifting artists, creating an environment where everyone belonged. Spokane needs this. It can’t go away.
SK: There’s a vibrancy to this market. Spokane would have a real void without it. We’re at a point in our lives where we have both the time and the passion to invest in something meaningful, and this market feels like the exact right place to pour that energy.
TNW: Can you walk us through the transition process so far?
SK: Once we reached out, we had several long meetings with Gwyn to understand the full footprint of the business, its operations, its values, and the community relationships she has built. We’ve already established 33 Artists Market as a nonprofit with the State of Washington. This isn’t a profit venture for us, we want to give back to the arts community in a meaningful way.
IK: As part of that, we’re exploring ways to bring more educational opportunities, outreach programs, or even scholarships to artists, anything that pours resources back into the community.
TNW: In your words, what makes 33 Artists Market so beloved in Spokane?
IK: Meaningful relationships. Artists supporting each other. Patrons who are genuinely curious. There’s a mutual respect that you can feel the moment you walk in.
SK: The emotional connection is real, but also, I’ve worked in the creative field my whole life. I know how rare it is for artists to have spaces where they can thrive. Helping artists sustain themselves isn’t just good for our city, it’s essential for community identity.
GP: The intentionality. Artists aren’t just selling their work, they’re sharing their stories. Patrons aren’t just buying products, they’re investing in people’s stories. I take the time to know the artists personally, and the community does too. It feels like family.
TNW: Why was transitioning into a nonprofit the right next step?
SK: When forming the new company, it became clear that nonprofit status aligned best with the mission. It allows for community support, grants, and sponsorships that aren’t driven by profit and ensures everything we receive goes back to the artists.
IK: Any donations or support will fund education, outreach, resources, or opportunities that help artists grow. The community gives to us, and we give right back.
GP:I always envisioned 33 Artists Market becoming a nonprofit someday. Seeing that dream coming to life excites me more than I can say.
TNW: What parts of Gwyn’s vision are you most excited to carry forward into this new era?
IK: All of it. Truly. The structure, the care, the organization, Gwyn has handed us something incredibly thoughtful. We’re not changing the foundation. We’re simply building on it.
SK: We want to preserve the intimacy. The moment this becomes a massive, impersonal event, it loses what makes it special. The goal is to lean into what already works and stay deeply connected to the artists.
TNW: What can participating or future artists expect during this transition?
SK: We’re focused on making this as seamless as possible. Gwyn will be with us for the first six months to ensure nothing slips through the cracks. Artists should expect the same heart, same structure, same community energy. They’ll simply see more opportunities in the future as we grow.
TNW: When does the transition officially happen?
GP:This Friday (December 12)! I’m currently finalizing documents, preparing spreadsheets, and passing over applications so the March market can move forward smoothly.
Spokane’s creative community isn’t just keeping this market—it’s gaining new opportunities, expanded support, and a leadership team ready to grow alongside the artists they care about so deeply.
As Irene Kelly said, “Here’s to growth. Here’s to creativity and to a strong future for 33 artists, market and the community.”
Stay tuned for application releases, venue announcements, and updates on 33 Artists Market’s new nonprofit direction.
The heart of the market remains the same, only now it’s going to reach even further.