The grant funding I received facilitated the acquisition of shared equipment that significantly enhanced my artistic contributions in various projects. This equipment played a pivotal role in the installation of diverse art installations for multiple artists, showcasing their unique visions and creativity.

My shared equipment has been instrumental in fostering creativity and community engagement. Recently, I collaborated with a youth artist in juvenile detention to create various works of art, which were proudly showcased at the Erickson Gallery. This initiative not only provided a creative outlet for the youth but also highlighted their unique perspectives and talents.

Additionally, I used the equipment from the RACC grant to support a youth from p:ear in hosting a sun catcher workshop. This workshop was a heartfelt tribute, centered around memorializing those we have lost in our community. It was a beautiful way to bring people together and honor their memories through art

Cafe United, a small business in Old Town Chinatown owned by BIPOC partners, asked if I could help enhance their space with a vibrant coffee cart mural and update their hand-painted sign. This project reflects the rich cultural tapestry of the area and underscores Cafe United's commitment to celebrating diversity and creativity. The cafe not only serves delicious coffee but also hosts local artists and provides a stage for musical performances, making it a hub for artistic expression and community connection. It was a pleasure to contribute to their mission of fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment.

Painting - Unicone inspired by the Pabst Blue Ribbon festival that takes place on the river front each year. This was bought by True West to become a part of the popup bar each year.

Additionally I made various paintings and art cards to be given out to the public during chance encounters. You can see some of those pieces below.



Brandt Maina | RIOA wa ROE (they/he/Her/Our) is a Portland-based queer artist, writer, director and performer from Nairobi, Kenya who documents and abstracts his autobiography into pastel drawings, surreal poetry, absurdist plays, particular photography, genre-fluid music, and soulful performances which shape sacred spaces that reify to audiences this sense of the Present Future as it passes. You can learn more about them here.

At the Lloyd Center Mall in the ILY2TOO gallery @ily2.too Suite G113 (1st Floor, East Side) Brandt Maina | RIOA wa ROE hosted a multi-part play reading with an opening and closing ceremony. I was able to use my equipment to help with the installation of their work as well as refreshments and snacks. I was also able to film the performance for the artist’s archive.

As part of my commitment to supporting the arts and fostering community engagement, I provided funding for food at the opening reception and poetry reading hosted at PDX Contemporary Art. This event “Moon Bloom”, featuring Brandt Maina and the Creative Futures Collective Portland 2024 cohort, at the Shaking the Tree Theatre featured an art installation, staged play reading, solo performances, and unique group activities, highlighting the vibrant and diverse creative talents within our community.

My contribution ensured that attendees enjoyed a warm, welcoming atmosphere with refreshments, enhancing the overall experience and encouraging meaningful connections among artists and the community.

Furthermore, the RACC grant helped me fund materials to extend my volunteer efforts at p:ear. I’m working with other volunteers to expand our “Wired Wednesday” program, which mentors the youth in design and technology.

We will produce an arts & culture magazine and a website. The grant allows me to deliver early proof of concepts and pay for help preparing for future grants.