After taking us into the heart of imaginative mythology and cultural histories with their recent group exhibition Fables and Folklore, Nanny Goat Gallery now prepare for a special exhibition close to their heart: Feminine Mystique. Opening this Friday, July 31, Feminine Mystique is not only a spectacular celebration of Nanny Goat Gallery’s second anniversary. It is a homage to co-owner Emily Eccles’ family – in particular, the women who raised her. Through this lens, this all-female exhibition, featuring over 40 artists, encourages each creative to share their own interpretations of what a strong woman looks like – and it does not disappoint!
After an incredibly positive response to the theme from the artists involved, Nanny Goat Gallery are excited to unveil the artworks in this exhibition. “It’s always such a good feeling when you feel that you have given the artists a theme they can really sink their teeth into. When curating this show, I purposely reached out to artists who I felt have often featured strong women in their work – so I knew the results would be incredible. And they have exceeded even my expectations.” shares Emily.
“Feminine Mystique is absolutely a homage to my family! I know it’s not every young girl who is raised being told she can do anything she wants to do and be anything she wants to be. Gender roles weren’t typical in my home so I grew up watching women do everything, from cooking and cleaning to getting huge promotions at work and pay the bills. It was all possible.
My mom is a recently retired CPA who ran a good-sized retail business for 30 years. She’s funny, beautiful and brilliant. She is also an amazing mother. My grandmother was a very intelligent and namely independent woman years ahead of her time when starting out in the 50’s. She taught me a lot about taking care of those in need and rooting for the underdog. My mother and grandmother both worked so hard to see that we never felt like anything was missing.
I look back now and realize how incredibly lucky I was to have them both, and my great-grandmother as well, set that example. Women are amazing.
– Emily Eccles, co-owner, Nanny Goat Gallery
Feminine Mystique is beautiful visual story celebrating the power and grace of women. The exhibition takes the name from a 1960’s novel written by Betty Friedan. In the book, she shines a light on how unfulfilled the mid-century housewife truly was and how damaging these roles were to women and their potential. The novel was pivotal text in the feminist movement, and one which has spoken deeply to Emily.
Feminine Mystique
Featuring over 40 female artists!
Plus: Dave Todaro’s Secret Gardens and Ali Schorman’s beautiful ceramics collection
Nanny Goat Gallery
215 N Water St in Old Downtown, Petaluma, CA, USA
Tel: 707-329-6388
Opening Reception: Friday, July 31 2026: 6-9pm. Free and open to the public, including children and dogs!
Opening hours:
Thursday: 2-5 pm
Friday: 2-5 pm
Saturday: 12-5 pm
Email Emily and Paul at hello@nannygoatgallery.com with any questions or inquiries, or sign up for the collectors preview here.
Has this been a wild ride so far opening Nanny Goat Gallery? Oh absolutely! I don’t think I could have imagined how proud I’d feel when a show is finally finished and clients see everything for the first time. Their reactions to the art are everything!
I also never dreamed I’d meet so many amazing people, many of whom I consider good friends now. The art community is so supportive and welcoming. I’ve definitely never worked so hard in my life but the rewards far outweigh the hardships.
– Emily Eccles, co-owner, Nanny Goat Gallery
Feminine Mystique will show alongside solo exhibitions from magical realist Dave Todaro and a ceramics drop from sculptor Ali Schorman. See below to enjoy some of the artworks!
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Ecem Bozkurt: The Rest
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About Nanny Goat Gallery //
Taking roots in the Petaluma arts scene, Nanny Goat Gallery celebrates new and contemporary representational art, predominantly in the pop surreal, narrative, and fantasy genres. Far from the minimalist white walls experience, Nanny Goat Gallery happily leans into its historical foundations. The gallery boasts a two-room space with rustic brick walls, across the street from the river in downtown Petaluma.
Read more about their roots and opening here.
Why “Nanny Goat” Gallery?
During the 1940s to the 1960s, spanning three generations, members of Emily Eccles’ family resided on a picturesque hill in San Francisco affectionately referred to as Nanny Goat Hill. Memories of her family home evoke tales of its humble beginnings; the transformations it underwent, and the countless cherished moments shared within its walls—abundant laughter mingled with the occasional challenge.
Fast forward to today, and Emily’s journey, with her husband and gallery co-owner Paul, continues with the establishment of their gallery in Petaluma, nestled just 20 miles north of the vibrant city. This endeavor is truly a family affair, with each member contributing their unique expertise: Emily’s husband brings his skills in technology and law to the table, and Emily’s mom lends her financial acumen as CPA.
Yet, even in this modern venture, the spirits of her beloved grandmother and great-grandmother seem to linger, weaving their legacy into every aspect of their endeavor – an element that fills Emily Eccles’ heart with profound joy.
