Program areas at Local Color
Public Art & Creative Services engages with artists for innovative projects with creative freedom and equitable pay to produce vibrant works representative of the unique perspectives in San Jos. In 2023, we contracted 38 artists across 11 public art projects, generating 8,900 new sq ft of color and redistributing $171,642 to local Artists. The Public Art and Creative Services program will serve 45+ artists this year.
The Artists-In-Residence (AIR) program provides affordable workspaces for creatives, organizers, and groups. In 2023, we managed 23,000 sq ft of affordable artistsworkspaces, serving nearly 50 artists regularly and another 30 individuals using our spaces to organize less regularly. This year, the AIR program will expand to include a small workshop/gallery space that will serve an additional 10 artists and over 500 community members.
Local Commons (Fiscal Sponsorship) fosters sustainability for local artists & organizers by leveraging our 501(c)(3) status to expand access to grant funding and other resources for self-directed creative projects. In 2023, we supported 11 projects, helping $188,032of contributed funds reach essential communities in our communities. At this time, Local Color is capable of taking on new organizers, but with increased funding support, we will grow this critical program in 2024.
Youth Empowerment Series (YES) provides Custom-designed, arts-based programs built to empower next-generation creative advocates. In 2023, we served over 100 youth artists in partnership with schools,community groups, and our own dedicated funding sources. In 2024, with additional funding, we will increase the capacity of this program toserve 50% more youth with hands-on creative programming
Local Color Co-Labs connect Local Artists to opportunities for creatively facilitating experiences for all ages. In 2023, via tours, festival pop-ups, workshops, and more, 48 free workshops were facilitated and led by 51 paid local artists. In 2024, with additionalresources, we will match and exceed our 2023 engagement numbers.