VALISE stands for Vashon Artists Linked In Social Engagement. We chose these words for their humorous, ironic, and activist bent. The gallery is dedicated to presenting subjects and media that are daring and unexpected. We want to stir our audiences. We want to challenge members to initiate fresh work. We want to share the venue with the community and inspire new ideas. Half of our shows are by collective members and the other half are by artists from Vashon and beyond, regional and nationwide. The goal of VALISE gallery is to be an important and accessible art venue for the community.

Member Artists have the opportunity to exhibit their work annually, in conjunction with one or more other artists, either another member of the collective or a non-island artist. They may participate in the group shows, invitationals and open calls that VALISE holds each year. They  are encouraged to show and sell a wide variety of work, including 2-D and 3-D art, installations, performances, video, sound, and media as well.