Mission
WIVLA's mission is to provide an inspiring forum for women to explore and advance their creative development, to promote their work in the marketplace, and to infuse the community with their spirit of cooperation and invention.
Women in the Visual and Literary Arts (WIVLA) is a nurturing place for sharing and growth, where visual artists, writers and other creatives meet in an atmosphere of support and mutual respect.
Each month, dynamic speakers give informative and inspiring presentations. We invite you to join us, whether you are on your way to becoming the writer or artist you want to be or are already a seasoned professional.
WIVLA holds monthly online meetings. Please check our calendar for the dates and information regarding in-person outings and events.
“We wanted a networking group of women who were making their living by their creative wits…or who wished to explore that creativity. We had no idea how vibrant the synergy would be among visual and literary artists. It has taken on a life of its own.”
Karleen Koen | Novelist and WiVLA co-founder
Our Story
WIVLA began with a dialogue among Karleen Koen, Janean Thompson and Martha Skow (a writer, an artist and an art consultant) who were members of a professional businesswomen's group. Recognizing the organization’s benefits of intellectual stimulation, camaraderie and networking, these friends envisioned a similar group for women artists and writers.
Much of WiVLA’s success is due to the philosophy, tone and spirit set in motion by its founders at its first meeting in March 1994. WiVLA’s first exhibition was held in May 1995. At that reception, 11 writers gave readings of their works and a unique WiVLA tradition was born. Since then, the organization has held exhibitions and readings in galleries, museums and alternative spaces.
Founders & Past Presidents
WiVLA FOUNDERS
Karleen Koen
Martha Skow
Janean Thompson
PAST PRESIDENTS
2023 Gretchen McDaniel
2021-22 Melody Locke
2019-20 Lee Steiner
2017-18 Cori Austin
2015-16 Jane Mulholland
2013-14 Cathy Nieman
2011-12 Lane Devereux
2009-10 Jeanne Haner
2008-09 Kay Sarver
2006-07 Marian Szczepanski
2004-05 Kellye Sanford
2002-03 Lillian Warren
2000-01 Lynn Weeks
1998-99 Sue Liska
1996-97 Janean Thompson
1994-95 Karleen Koen