In compiling my end-of-the-year Top 10 lists, one thing I realized is that in Seattle, contemporary art is seldom boring. Obtuse at times, sure, but also intriguing, thanks to art spaces like the Bill and Ruth True-founded Western Bridge, Scott Lawrimore’s much-lauded Project, and the smaller galleries in Pioneer Square’s Tashiro-Kaplan building. Two of those that made me gasp, grimace, and feel something on a regular basis this year were Punch and SOIL. And through the end of 2007, both house the results of an international show juried by Western Bridge’s Eric Fredericksen, “A bell is a cup until it is struck.” From almost 1,000 entries Fredericksen selected strong work from locals like Gretchen Bennett, as well as prize-winners Sol Hashemi from Vancouver (Juror’s Choice), Florian Japp from Berlin (Punch Choice) and Eugene’s Mike Bray (Soil Choice). Linking them loosely, Fredericksen shows “At SOIL, a series of confrontations with geometry; at Punch, confrontations with nature.” The themes include “spills, spots, piles, trash, smoke, mirrors, bread, sunsets, Jesus, trees, motor homes, and a poodle.” Put it on your list of 10 things to do before ‘08. SOIL Gallery, 112 Third Ave. S., 264-8061. Noon-5 p.m. Thurs.-Sun. Punch Gallery, 119 Prefontaine Pl. S., 621-1945. Noon-5 p.m. Fri.-Sun. Ends Dec. 30.

Dec. 6-30, 2007