Carman Tyra Gaines
Carman Tyra Gaines, born and raised in San José, is influenced by her West African, Chickahominy, and Creek Freedmen heritage. Carman’s social practice journey is rooted in a non-linear path, reflecting the various ways individuals can creatively impact the world. Carman currently serves as the Deputy Director of Local Color. An alum of the Ninth Emerging Arts Professional and SV-Mindshare cohorts, and Harvard’s 2023 Young American Leadership program. Carman holds Art History and Studio Arts degrees from San Francisco State University and De Anza College. They aim to celebrate diverse cultural heritages while inspiring joy and community.
Creative Liberties
“Creative Liberties” aims to develop a cooperatively owned creative hub dedicated to BIPOC communities in San José. The initial phase will engage the community through visioning sessions to inspire enthusiasm and lay the groundwork for development. In the short term, the project will enhance the surrounding public space to reflect the hub’s future direction. Creative Liberties seeks to establish an inclusive space for artistic expression and social connection, building on work with Local Color. The project addresses the need for diverse, sustainable, and longstanding creative spaces by uplifting local partnerships and cross-sector collaboration.