In the early 1940s, World War II tensions resulted in the tragic internment of thousands of Japanese Americans in the United States. The majority of the Pike Place Market's farmers were forced from their homes and livelihoods, never to return.

In 1998, local Japense-born artist Aki Sogabe was commissioned by the Japanese American Citizen League Seattle Chapter to create artwork honoring the memory of long-time Japanese American farmers. “Song of the Earth” was created with papercut images transferred onto five porcelain enamel panels, each 3 feet by 5 feet. The project took her one year to complete and has been on display ever since at Pike Place Market's main entrance near the corner of Pike Street and Pike Place.

As part of our At The Table culinary programming in the Atrium Kitchen, Chef Traci Post (Seductive Specialty Foods and Succulent Catering) leads a series of hour-long culinary workshops focused on fall and holiday entertainment. We spoke to Chef Traci to learn more about why she loves sharing her passion for cooking and entertaining.

How did you get into the cooking profession?

I grew up watching both of my parents cook—mom on the weekdays and dad on the weekends usually—so it's in my blood. In 1998, my mom was diagnosed with Alzheimer's Disease. I left my career in public relations and started caring for her. During our days together I would help her make dinner. As the disease progressed she was no longer able to recall her recipes or follow a written recipe. It was then I started cooking my parents meals and stocking their fridge. It was the gateway to becoming a personal chef, which eventually lead to catering. In 2011, a few months after my mom passed away, I took an inspiring trip to Italy and returned to Seattle with an idea for a line of gourmet sauces, syrups and jams. Teaching others to cook and entertain came about naturally. My roots and passion for cooking run deep and I enjoy sharing that with others. I love what I do!