Organizations that blur expected boundaries are crucial to a vital arts community and novel venues are welcome additions to the region. In Providence, a new space that blends art gallery, library, and community space has opened on the city’s West End.

What happens when a group of extraordinary women assemble and decide to launch a feminist cultural center? You get a nonprofit with thoughtful programming, inspiring exhibits, and safe spaces to gather.

The Alcove, a feminist cultural center celebrating women and gender-expansive people, hosted its official grand opening on Saturday, January 10, welcoming more than 200 attendees to an afternoon of celebration, inspiration, and shared purpose.

Rhode Island’s first feminist and gender-expansive cultural center has changed its name to The Alcove from Gather RI. Why the change? “We wanted a name that truly evokes the feeling of what we do,” said Amanda E. Strauss, the founding executive director of the nonprofit. “Also, an alcove is a respite, a pause, in the architecture.”