A door is a weighty thing in literature. It represents both a divider and a portal, a way to keep people out or a means of allowing people in. The metaphorical possibilities are endless. And, practically speaking, it’s not a bad idea, either, just to keep intruders out and such. Well, now you can see both options explored simultaneously at the Art Doors Auction Thursday, a benefit party for Tacoma Art Place and the Speakeasy Arts Cooperative.

Emcee Julie Anderson will kick the night off with a spotlight on musicians Kim Archer and Nick Sandy. At 8 p.m. Alan Gorsuch, owner of Sanford and Son Antiques, will serve as auctioneer. There are approximately 15 art doors created by some of Tacoma's favorite local artists: Marie Sorensen, Jaymz Alexander, Scott Nelson, Scott Mcgee, Michaela Eaves, Brandusa Bularca, Arlene Towne & Mimi, Jada-Moon Gridley, Sonja Berry, Cindy Arnold, Bo Chambers, Julie Anderson, Ellen Miffitt, Kenji, and Summer Hess Brigg.

There will be a full bar for those that are over 21 but the event is all ages.

The Speakeasy's balcony will be converted into a VIP Loft with special seating, champagne and pie!

Admission is $10, or $25 for the VIP Balcony. The money raised at the auction will be distributed in the following manner: 25 percent to Speakeasy, 25 percent to Tacoma Art Place and 50 percent to the artist.

If you like what you see at the party, maybe you could take a piece of Tacoma art home with you, because we must put a stop to the tyranny of plain white doors.

[Speakeasy Arts Cooperative, Thursday, Dec. 2, 7 p.m., all ages, $10, $25 VIP, 746 Broadway, Tacoma, RSVP here]