Have you reviewed the recent “Our Creative Future” multi-county cultural plan (linked above)? Would you endorse the plan as a candidate?

Yes, I have reviewed the recent “Our Creative Future” multi-county cultural plan, and I fully endorse it. As a candidate for Portland City Council, I am deeply committed to supporting the arts, not just in Portland, but across all counties. The arts are central to my vision of making Portland the jewel of the West Coast, and this plan is an important step toward fostering creativity and culture in our community.

However, we must address a critical issue that has hindered the flourishing of art in Portland: the lack of respect for artists and their work. Our city has seen statues toppled, buildings vandalized with graffiti, and parks neglected—spaces that should be sources of inspiration for artists, but instead have become disheartening. Portland’s artists deserve a city that respects and uplifts their craft.

I want to begin by restoring Portland’s public art, starting with our historic statues. For example, the Rough Rider statue represents more than just history—it symbolizes the value we place on art in public spaces. Additionally, I envision a Portland where architecture itself is a form of artistic expression, with unique, timeless designs that showcase the city’s creativity.

Portland is facing job losses, particularly in the downtown core. How can arts/culture workforce investments be part of a wider strategy to improve the workforce outlook for the region?

Portland’s downtown has suffered significant job losses, and the arts and culture workforce can play a key role in revitalizing it. However, we need to address the underlying issues that hinder artists from thriving here. Statues made by renowned artists have been removed, and the downtown core continues to struggle with mental health, addiction issues, and occasional crime. While adding more art to the city is part of the solution, we must first ensure that it is protected. No artist will invest in showcasing their work if there’s a risk of it being destroyed by riots or vandalism.

For artists to thrive, Portland must become a place that is clean, safe, and respectful of public art. Right now, many artists have left because the city is overtaxed through both corporate and individual taxes. And as we know, many are “starving artists” who can’t afford to stay in a city that doesn’t offer them support.

To improve the workforce outlook and bring artists back, we need to create an environment where they are valued, and where their work is safeguarded. Only then can we attract more creative talent and boost the region’s broader economic recovery.

Arts, culture, design and creative entrepreneurship are key elements of Portland’s national and regional brand. Portland has the fourth-highest concentration of artists in the nation, after New York, San Francisco and Los Angeles, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. What policies or investments would you back to ensure that arts, culture and the creative economy are part of the city’s priorities in investments and new policies?

I would support showcasing artists with a set budget to create unique opportunities for exposure. This could include annual events and partnerships with nonprofits that promote diverse, meaningful, and avant-garde art, particularly from young and emerging artists. When I attended your meeting, I wore a couture sweatshirt hand-crafted by a local artist who displayed his collection in a modest garage space. While that setting was fine, I believe artists like him deserve broader visibility and support. Ultimately, while government backing is essential, the free market will determine which artists succeed based on the emotional resonance of their work.

How do you see museums, cultural institutions, creative independent venues, nightlife and festivals as part of the downtown revitalization and general community stabilization?

I fully support the role that museums, cultural institutions, creative independent venues, nightlife, and festivals play in downtown revitalization and community stabilization. Museums, in particular, are sacred spaces that house art specifically chosen to evoke deep emotions. Iconic institutions like the Getty, the Louvre, and the Met have become cultural pillars in their communities, contributing to a sense of identity, pride, and continuity. Portland’s museums have the potential to do the same.

Creative independent venues, nightlife, and festivals are equally important. They bring vibrancy to the city, making it a destination for both residents and visitors. I’ve actively shown my support by attending various events, from nightclubs to unique day venues, demonstrating that I understand the pulse of Portland’s cultural scene. These spaces foster creativity, diversity, and a sense of community.

As part of my vision to make Portland the jewel of the West Coast, I believe in investing in these areas, which will not only stabilize our community but also attract more people to live, work, and play in Portland. These elements are key to creating a thriving city that values art, culture, and unique experiences.

Portland is home to an incredibly diverse range of cultural organizations, artists co-ops, and small businesses that make our neighborhoods unique and distinct. What small business and cultural activation ideas do you have for Portland’s neighborhoods?

I absolutely love this question! I have a vision for an event called “Arts Night Out”—a night dedicated to celebrating local businesses and artists, both big and small. The idea is to have this event city-wide, heavily promoted as *the* night to get out and shop, explore, and support Portland’s vibrant small businesses, artist co-ops, and cultural organizations.

“Arts Night Out” would spotlight all kinds of artists—musicians, painters, designers, and more—who would collaborate with local businesses to showcase their work. It would be a uniquely Portland event, branded and marketed to draw people from across the city and beyond. This night would aim to revitalize neighborhoods, boost small businesses, and foster community connections.

The event would feature performances and exhibitions from both local and national talent. Imagine iconic Portland artists like Pink Martini performing at a store like Nordstrom or street performers lining the sidewalks of Alberta or Mississippi Avenue. The key would be making it a fun, high-energy night that brings together creativity and commerce. This kind of cultural activation would energize the city’s arts scene while giving businesses a chance to shine, all in the spirit of celebrating Portland’s unique identity.

Have you reviewed the recent “Our Creative Future” multi-county cultural plan (linked above)? Would you endorse the plan as a candidate?

yes

Portland is facing job losses, particularly in the downtown core. How can arts/culture workforce investments be part of a wider strategy to improve the workforce outlook for the region?

Our culture, as well as our nature, are key attractants for talent. We can’t reverse the shift in work patterns away from the downtown but we can encourage/rezone/build more housing so that downtown has its own critical mass of residents to support business and the arts.

Arts, culture, design and creative entrepreneurship are key elements of Portland’s national and regional brand. Portland has the fourth-highest concentration of artists in the nation, after New York, San Francisco and Los Angeles, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. What policies or investments would you back to ensure that arts, culture and the creative economy are part of the city’s priorities in investments and new policies?

Build more housing, and more affordable housing. Look at multi use opportunities in major civic buildings, eg, the new Keller (wherever it is), the Convention Center, Waterfront Park, etc

How do you see museums, cultural institutions, creative independent venues, nightlife and festivals as part of the downtown revitalization and general community stabilization?

These are the foundations of our civic life but must be leveraged to provide full time opportunities during “dark days”

Portland is home to an incredibly diverse range of cultural organizations, artists co-ops, and small businesses that make our neighborhoods unique and distinct. What small business and cultural activation ideas do you have for Portland’s neighborhoods?

We need to take back the street from cars: plazas such as at NE 28th and Ankeny support the local businesses and serve as magnets for community activity. Plazas can be cheaply created everywhere by reclaiming the public’s right to occupy the street.

Have you reviewed the recent “Our Creative Future” multi-county cultural plan (linked above)? Would you endorse the plan as a candidate?

Yes, absolutely. I believe this is a great plan for our community.

Portland is facing job losses, particularly in the downtown core. How can arts/culture workforce investments be part of a wider strategy to improve the workforce outlook for the region?

The arts and artists are one of Portland’s most important resources. I believe we need to explore options for supporting artists with livable wages, and investigate opportunities for supporting businesses with space for arts, whether performances or displays, to encourage more arts. I’d like to see the new city council identify ways that we can support artists, perhaps by providing a fund to cover live music which bars, restaurants, and other venues could apply to and gain access to a roster of available artists.

Arts, culture, design and creative entrepreneurship are key elements of Portland’s national and regional brand. Portland has the fourth-highest concentration of artists in the nation, after New York, San Francisco and Los Angeles, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. What policies or investments would you back to ensure that arts, culture and the creative economy are part of the city’s priorities in investments and new policies?

I believe we need to reduce costs throughout the region, but in particular through the development of more housing and working to ensure that housing is affordable. Beyond that I will investigate opportunities for supporting independent contractors and subcontractors by increasing wages, by ordinance if necessary, but ideally through collaboration and cooperation with businesses and other organizations hiring artists. We need to stop relying on large-scale developments to improve public services–such as the planned mid-size venues at Lloyd Center and near OMSI. As a public servant, my number one goal will be to ensure that Portlanders see improvements in public service accessibility, reliability, and durability. We need better transit, cheaper homes, safer streets, and dependable services from our city.

How do you see museums, cultural institutions, creative independent venues, nightlife and festivals as part of the downtown revitalization and general community stabilization?

I believe we must continue to revitalize and expand these institutions and events. But we also need to expand outside of downtown. I think the winter lights festival is a great example of creating an event that is truly citywide, which you can experience in your neighborhood or district, but can only fully experience by traveling outside of your area and visiting other parts of the city. I hope the new council will work together to continue encouraging engagement and collaboration between venues and institutions around the city, take part publicly and regularly in the arts, and promote them on a regular basis. The arts is a well-documented mechanism for bringing community together.

Portland is home to an incredibly diverse range of cultural organizations, artists co-ops, and small businesses that make our neighborhoods unique and distinct. What small business and cultural activation ideas do you have for Portland’s neighborhoods?

I intend to engage with every neighborhood association in D3 during my first 90 days and have already been actively engaged in outreach to them. I believe neighborhood associations should be closely involved in the future of our city, so that council can ensure we include as many voices as possible and ensure that we serve the needs of as many constituents as possible. I’d like to see the continuation and expansion of neighborhood plazas, with art as a core component. Additionally I believe we need to continue supporting neighborhoods by actively developing corridors such as we have on Belmont, Hawthorne, and Division in other parts of D3 such as on Sandy through Rose City Park and Roseway and Milwaukie Ave in Brooklyn. Each neighborhood should have is own destination anchor that brings Portlanders and tourists to their area.

Have you reviewed the recent “Our Creative Future” multi-county cultural plan (linked above)? Would you endorse the plan as a candidate?

I have reviewed the “Our Creative Future” plan, which I believe aligns with my vision for Portland. It emphasizes inclusivity and sustainable cultural growth. Portland’s arts sector is a significant economic driver, supporting jobs and local businesses.

The plan’s focus on equitable access to arts and culture resonates deeply with my commitment to building a more connected Portland. The plan reflects the values of community engagement and resilience that are central to my campaign.

By supporting the arts, we are investing in Portland’s future, ensuring that our city remains a vibrant and inclusive cultural hub for all.

Portland is facing job losses, particularly in the downtown core. How can arts/culture workforce investments be part of a wider strategy to improve the workforce outlook for the region?

Investing in arts is essential to addressing job losses in Portland. The cultural sector provides direct employment, stimulates local businesses, and attracts tourism. Integrating arts into workforce development can create new opportunities in creative fields. Portland’s arts community generates significant economic activity, making it crucial to our economy. Supporting arts education and affordable workspaces will help grow this sector.
With preventing job loss as the most critical item we can address in the short term, I support the proposal to replace Keller Auditorium with a facility at PSU. This ensures that crews and artists working on shows will have continuity of employments. This is important because it could take years to rebuild that sector of the arts community should we shut it down completely.

We must also invest in our local music scene. Our focus should be on supporting local venues and artists, keeping Portland’s vibrant music community thriving and our cultural investments within the city.

Arts, culture, design and creative entrepreneurship are key elements of Portland’s national and regional brand. Portland has the fourth-highest concentration of artists in the nation, after New York, San Francisco and Los Angeles, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. What policies or investments would you back to ensure that arts, culture and the creative economy are part of the city’s priorities in investments and new policies?

Portland’s creative sector is a major economic driver and cultural asset. To ensure arts, culture, and the creative economy remain central to Portland’s priorities, I would advocate for sustained funding for arts education and affordable workspaces for artists. We have very little public money going into arts in Portland, local companies don’t typically invest in art and we also have no arts endowments. We need an arts organization (like RACC) to put more focus on getting outside money and not just relying on the Arts Tax and City funding.

Expanding grants for community-led cultural events and integrating arts into broader city planning are crucial steps. I support partnerships between the city, nonprofits, and private sectors to sustain a thriving creative economy.

By prioritizing these investments, we can maintain Portland’s status as a leading center for creativity and innovation. This approach will also ensure that our city’s policies reflect the importance of the arts in economic growth and community development.
Investing in arts is essential to addressing job losses in Portland. The cultural sector provides direct employment, stimulates local businesses, and attracts tourism. Integrating arts into workforce development can create new opportunities in creative fields. Portland’s arts community generates significant economic

How do you see museums, cultural institutions, creative independent venues, nightlife and festivals as part of the downtown revitalization and general community stabilization?

Museums, cultural institutions, independent venues, nightlife, and festivals are essential to revitalizing downtown Portland and stabilizing our community. These elements draw visitors, support local businesses, and foster a sense of community. Portland’s arts leaders emphasize that cultural activities are crucial for economic recovery and community engagement.

I attend several live music shows each month and travel for music festivals annually. I’ve seen firsthand how vibrant cultural scenes can energize a city.

As a City Councilor, I will prioritize creating inclusive, welcoming spaces where all Portlanders can gather, celebrate, and connect. Investing in these institutions will create a downtown that is lively, diverse, and resilient, helping stabilize and enrich our community.

Portland is home to an incredibly diverse range of cultural organizations, artists co-ops, and small businesses that make our neighborhoods unique and distinct. What small business and cultural activation ideas do you have for Portland’s neighborhoods?

To activate Portland’s neighborhoods, I propose supporting small business incubators focused on creative industries. These incubators can provide resources and mentorship to help entrepreneurs succeed. Expanding grants for community-led cultural events, such as art walks and neighborhood festivals, will bring residents together and celebrate local talent.

We need projects that are win-win-win, supporting the arts, small businesses, and the local economy while enhancing our cultural vibrancy. There’s a multiplier effect when we choose projects that unite multiple art sectors with economic components. For example, a grant process could fund cultural dance performance festivals in business districts, benefiting both artists and surrounding small businesses.

Have you reviewed the recent “Our Creative Future” multi-county cultural plan (linked above)? Would you endorse the plan as a candidate?

Yes and yes. As a lifelong Portlander who grew up in our local music and arts scene, in City Hall I will champion the implementation of the “Our Creative Future” plan, advocating for stable funding mechanisms, cross-sector collaboration, and policies that support both marquee institutions and grassroots arts.

With the arts generating more than $405 million in spending for Portland alone and supporting 4% of state jobs, it is clear that investing in this sector is not only culturally enriching but also fiscally responsible. The arts have the power to unite our diverse communities, improve mental health, and enhance public safety by activating our streets.

Portland is facing job losses, particularly in the downtown core. How can arts/culture workforce investments be part of a wider strategy to improve the workforce outlook for the region?

When I used to help run First Thursday gallery shows in Old Town, I saw how the arts brought visitors from across the region, supporting not just artists, but also the many small businesses that are the backbone of our city’s economy. By funding the arts, we support the 28% of Portland workers employed by small businesses, including artists themselves.

To revitalize our city, we must make it easier to host arts events, start arts-based businesses and work as an artist. By doing so, we not only create jobs and support small businesses, but also foster the sense of community and creativity that makes Portland such a special place to live and work. Investing in the arts is an investment in our shared future.

Arts, culture, design and creative entrepreneurship are key elements of Portland’s national and regional brand. Portland has the fourth-highest concentration of artists in the nation, after New York, San Francisco and Los Angeles, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. What policies or investments would you back to ensure that arts, culture and the creative economy are part of the city’s priorities in investments and new policies?

To ensure that these Portland’s arts, culture, and creative economy are healthy, I am committed to providing accountable and transparent oversight of our arts funding. Recent missteps in some taxpayer-funded arts organizations have eroded public trust. We must work diligently to ensure public confidence in our stewardship of public dollars and our arts scene.

Maintaining Portland’s status as a creative hub also requires addressing the issues that are driving people away from our city. I will prioritize revitalizing our economy, tackling public safety concerns, and ensuring we’re on a path to ending unsheltered homelessness. Additionally, I propose designing a system of tax credits to allow Portland-based businesses to cover student loan payments for Portland-based employees. This initiative will encourage educated young professionals to locate here, providing a vital base of patrons and artists for our arts community.

How do you see museums, cultural institutions, creative independent venues, nightlife and festivals as part of the downtown revitalization and general community stabilization?

Jane Jacobs wrote that having “eyes on the street” was crucial to ensuring city streets are safe. With fewer people commuting to downtown and very few people living downtown, our museums, venues, galleries and festivals are crucial partners in our efforts to revitalize our underutilizedneighborhoods.

Portland is home to an incredibly diverse range of cultural organizations, artists co-ops, and small businesses that make our neighborhoods unique and distinct. What small business and cultural activation ideas do you have for Portland’s neighborhoods?

I support extending the downtown business tax credit to smaller businesses with as few as two employees and expanding its availability to other neighborhoods with high commercial vacancy rates. I will work to streamline permitting and licensing processes and reduce fees and tax burdens for small businesses, making it easier for entrepreneurs to bring their dreams to life.

But we must think creatively too. I will work to simplify the activation of streets in front of businesses and the use of city venues like parks for cultural events. We should also embrace and license micro-businesses like pushcarts and street vendors, which character and accessible opportunity for entrepreneurship to our communities. Together, we can ensure that our neighborhoods remain vibrant, inclusive, and resilient, with the arts and entrepreneurship at the forefront of our city’s future.

Have you reviewed the recent “Our Creative Future” multi-county cultural plan (linked above)? Would you endorse the plan as a candidate?

I have read it and would endorse the plan. I would also work to secure adequate funding, inter-agency cooperation, and community support to bring the plan to fruition.

Portland is facing job losses, particularly in the downtown core. How can arts/culture workforce investments be part of a wider strategy to improve the workforce outlook for the region?

I see the arts/culture workforce as the future for Portland. Music, theater, fine arts, and more have always been a draw to the city and are part of what makes Portland unique. These jobs can only be done here – they can’t be outsourced and, as we learned in the pandemic, streaming a show online can never compete with live performances. I want Portland’s artists to do the work they love and be able to afford to live in the city.

So far we have seen a push to return downtown to the business center it was before the pandemic, but as a wise woman said, “we can’t go back.” Merely filling offices is not the solution – I want to get creative in imagining what downtown could be, and the arts are an integral part of this. We could convert some of the unused office space to maker space without the same issues as residential conversion, and would take a close look at mixed-use applications and live/work spaces.

Arts, culture, design and creative entrepreneurship are key elements of Portland’s national and regional brand. Portland has the fourth-highest concentration of artists in the nation, after New York, San Francisco and Los Angeles, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. What policies or investments would you back to ensure that arts, culture and the creative economy are part of the city’s priorities in investments and new policies?

I want health insurance and retirement plans for all creatives and would support developing a risk pool (similar to the way unions do) to make this possible. I want to uplift organizations that hire local talent, and have a central exchange to connect local creatives and jobs. We need affordable housing in Portland if we’re going to keep workers in every field. There have been challenges with converting office space downtown, but there’s potential in tapping that area for non traditional uses.

Ideally I would support a basic income for artists. We need to find a revenue source, but I think an artist-in-residency program could be developed. I would be interested in exploring how we can change the economics to benefit our locality – if an artist is making a living wage and has access to affordable materials, could they sell their wares at a more affordable price, or expand their platform?

How do you see museums, cultural institutions, creative independent venues, nightlife and festivals as part of the downtown revitalization and general community stabilization?

Museums, cultural institutions, creative independent venues, nightlife and festivals are reasons to actually go somewhere in person. They draw people to our neighborhoods and keep us there to enjoy a meal, grab a drink after a show, or just enjoy a walking tour of public art. Each neighborhood has its own flavors that are enhanced by the venues and art opportunities there, and give people a chance to connect with neighbors and friends as they stoke the local economy.

Events held at these places create a shared history, drive the culture, and offer a touch stone in a modern world. Elders pass on skills and knowledge, guiding the next generation – this is an essential role for people to play, and brings us closer to folks we may not otherwise engage with. Art is as old as we are, and it brings us together.

Portland is home to an incredibly diverse range of cultural organizations, artists co-ops, and small businesses that make our neighborhoods unique and distinct. What small business and cultural activation ideas do you have for Portland’s neighborhoods?

I would love to see more street closures like our summer Street Fairs, using the space for performances and to create vending opportunities for makers and other small businesses. I want more physical infrastructure in place to encourage this – in Charleston, SC there are sweet grass basket maker stands just off the side of the highway for tourist season. We can invest in some basic stands or kiosks in public spaces to activate different parts of the neighborhood. People are creative and want to share with the world – often they just need the opportunity. There are many plots of land that the City owns, we could create temporary commerce spaces to offer those opportunities to people and revitalize streets. There are many empty street front spaces currently – could the City incentivize using those spaces for pop up events?

I am impressed by the incubator programs run by local nonprofits and other organizations – let’s support those successful efforts. Someone may be an amazing quilter but not great with setting up their business plan – we can smooth the way with more support and resource navigators to connect folks with existing programs.

Have you reviewed the recent “Our Creative Future” multi-county cultural plan (linked above)? Would you endorse the plan as a candidate?

Yes

Portland is facing job losses, particularly in the downtown core. How can arts/culture workforce investments be part of a wider strategy to improve the workforce outlook for the region?

Investing in Portland’s arts and culture workforce is essential to revitalizing our downtown and strengthening the region’s overall economy. The creative industries—design, media production, performing arts—are filled with opportunities, and by supporting them, we can create new jobs that bring both local talent and new professionals to our city.

Arts and culture also drive tourism and support our local businesses. By investing in cultural events and public art, we can bring more people downtown, generating foot traffic and economic activity that will help keep our restaurants, shops, and hotels thriving. Transforming public spaces with art and performances will create vibrant, welcoming community hubs.

Additionally, investing in the arts helps develop essential skills like creativity and problem-solving, which are increasingly valuable across industries. Arts education and creative entrepreneurship programs can help prepare our workforce for the challenges of the future.

Just as importantly, arts investments can promote equity by supporting BIPOC-led and under-resourced organizations. A thriving, inclusive arts scene reflects the diversity of our city and creates new opportunities for everyone. By prioritizing arts and culture, we’re not just enriching our city—we’re building an economy that lifts all Portlanders and reclaims the vibrancy of our downtown.

Arts, culture, design and creative entrepreneurship are key elements of Portland’s national and regional brand. Portland has the fourth-highest concentration of artists in the nation, after New York, San Francisco and Los Angeles, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. What policies or investments would you back to ensure that arts, culture and the creative economy are part of the city’s priorities in investments and new policies?

Investing in Portland’s arts and culture workforce is critical to revitalizing our downtown and strengthening the local economy. The creative industries—design, media, performing arts—offer tremendous opportunities for job growth, innovation, and attracting new talent to Portland. By supporting these sectors, we can stimulate our economy while also fostering creativity and collaboration, skills that are invaluable across all industries.

The arts drive tourism, and with that comes increased revenue for local businesses like restaurants, hotels, and shops. By prioritizing cultural events and public art projects, we can draw more people into downtown, creating foot traffic and economic activity that will help stabilize our small businesses. Public spaces enlivened by art become places where people gather, connect, and feel proud of their city.

Moreover, arts investments are about equity and inclusion. Portland has a rich history of creativity, but too often, BIPOC-led and under-resourced organizations are left behind. By ensuring that these groups receive support, we can build an arts community that reflects the diversity of our city and provides opportunities for all.

By prioritizing arts and culture, we aren’t just creating jobs—we’re revitalizing downtown, fostering community, and building an economy that works for everyone. This is a key part of my

How do you see museums, cultural institutions, creative independent venues, nightlife and festivals as part of the downtown revitalization and general community stabilization?

Museums, cultural institutions, independent venues, nightlife, and festivals are essential to Portland’s downtown revitalization and the stabilization of our broader community. These spaces aren’t just entertainment hubs—they’re places where people gather, connect, and experience the diversity and creativity that make Portland unique. They bring life back to our streets, generate foot traffic, and support local businesses, from restaurants to retail shops.

By investing in and promoting cultural institutions and events, we can help bring people back downtown and create a vibrant atmosphere that encourages both locals and visitors to engage with the city. Festivals and nightlife, in particular, draw large crowds and provide opportunities for local artists, musicians, and creators to thrive. This helps to reinvigorate our local economy and create jobs in the arts, hospitality, and service sectors.

Museums and cultural institutions also play a key role in community education, providing opportunities for residents to engage with history, art, and culture in meaningful ways. These spaces foster creativity and innovation, which in turn drives economic growth and makes our city a more desirable place to live, work, and visit.

In short, a thriving cultural scene is the foundation of a revitalized, inclusive, and resilient downtown Portland. It’s essential to

Portland is home to an incredibly diverse range of cultural organizations, artists co-ops, and small businesses that make our neighborhoods unique and distinct. What small business and cultural activation ideas do you have for Portland’s neighborhoods?

Portland’s vibrant neighborhoods thrive on the diversity of cultural organizations, artist co-ops, and small businesses that give each community its own unique character. To support and activate these vital contributors to our city, I would focus on fostering stronger connections between small businesses, artists, and local residents through community-based events and

initiatives. First, I would advocate for expanding neighborhood-focused cultural festivals that spotlight local artists, musicians, and small businesses. By bringing the community together in these ways, we not only support our creatives and entrepreneurs but also create shared experiences that strengthen the fabric of our

neighborhoods. I would also work to streamline the permitting process for small businesses and pop-up markets, making it easier for artists and entrepreneurs to collaborate on temporary installations, street fairs, and co-working spaces. Encouraging local street art projects and rotating public art exhibitions can help activate public spaces while supporting our diverse artist

community. Additionally, I would promote the creation of small business incubators that focus on underrepresented communities, providing mentorship, funding opportunities, and affordable workspace. These incubators can help ensure that Portland’s economic growth is inclusive and supports our most vulnerable

entrepreneurs. By prioritizing these types of initiatives, we can celebrate and

Have you reviewed the recent “Our Creative Future” multi-county cultural plan (linked above)? Would you endorse the plan as a candidate?

Yes I did. I was impressed with the many ideas and agree with much of what I read, but I am reticent to endorse any policy before I am elected into office. Having said that, I do think a concerted, regional effort to support the arts is needed and very important for the present and future economy of the region.

Portland is facing job losses, particularly in the downtown core. How can arts/culture workforce investments be part of a wider strategy to improve the workforce outlook for the region?

I think focusing on arts/culture workforce investments for downtown is the best strategy for improving downtown as well as improving the workforce outlook for the region. If the downtown core becomes a place where you will find both formal and informal arts experiences every time you go there, word will get out that if you don’t go downtown you are missing something. This has to go hand in hand with safety and beautification strategies but if downtown has more people exploring it, then it will feel more safe and investment efforts will pay off. Once downtown is back on track as a safe, fun, interesting part of town, employers and new businesses will find it a worthwhile place to invest. A city’s downtown is its primary face to the world so it is important to not let it decline further. Downtown Portland is not only a worthwhile investment for the city but also the region.

Arts, culture, design and creative entrepreneurship are key elements of Portland’s national and regional brand. Portland has the fourth-highest concentration of artists in the nation, after New York, San Francisco and Los Angeles, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. What policies or investments would you back to ensure that arts, culture and the creative economy are part of the city’s priorities in investments and new policies?

To support artists and keep them in Portland, we can have policies and investments such as:

Subsidized Artist Housing: Inspired by models like New York City’s subsidized artist housing, we can develop affordable living spaces specifically for artists and creative professionals. This would help mitigate the impact of rising housing costs.

Grant Programs: I am in agreement with “OCF” plan to expand grants for local artists and creative organizations.

Temporary Art Spaces: Utilizing vacant commercial properties for temporary art galleries and collective workspaces can energize downtown and foster collaboration among artists, and attract visitors. The landlords can get a tax write off and the artists can have no or low cost space to explore new ideas.

Community Art Experiences: Inviting the community to create and then support low-cost, volunteer led art events and experiences, such as pop-up exhibitions or community art projects, can enhance cultural vibrancy while engaging the public.

Artist Leadership: Involving artists in city planning and development decisions ensures that their perspectives shape policies, positioning Portland as a leading creative city. Artists are not usually seen as leaders but when Steve Jobs followed the artist’s lead at Apple, it transformed the company into what it is today.

How do you see museums, cultural institutions, creative independent venues, nightlife and festivals as part of the downtown revitalization and general community stabilization?

Local culture and experiences are essential for Portland’s downtown to stay relevant in the 21st century. Drawing from my experiences living near Chicago, I witnessed how downtown beautification and free weekly festivals revitalized the city after the decline of the 1980s, spurring a residential boom in previously neglected areas. With remote work here to stay, cities must compete for residents and businesses by enhancing their quality of life.

To thrive, Portland should protect and curate our unique places and architectural treasures, and use these areas to springboard human-centered, in-person experiences. As cities adapt to the age of tech and AI, those offering vibrant, unique activities in beautiful places will succeed. Events like Lollapalooza contribute millions to Chicago’s economy, suggesting that Portland could benefit from more annual festivals in downtown and in our parks. More nighttime events and community gatherings can turn downtown into a 24/7 place to be. Ultimately, community culture is what makes urban living meaningful.

Portland is home to an incredibly diverse range of cultural organizations, artists co-ops, and small businesses that make our neighborhoods unique and distinct. What small business and cultural activation ideas do you have for Portland’s neighborhoods?

Some neighborhoods in District 3 are the neighborhoods that represent Portland to the world. I call these “keystone” neighborhoods. In the past 10 years these areas have added housing, which is good, but the buildings are dull, generic, out of the human scale, and are creating what I call “Vertical Suburbia”. These new buildings are replacing spaces where local culture would previously have been able to develop and thrive. These new buildings are not conducive to creative businesses. Hawthorne and other main streets are important as the “faces” of what Portland is to the world. I am an actor and worked on productions at Fuse Theater, which is on Hawthorne. Up-zoning not only threatens the stability of a theater like this because it is in a one story building that can be redeveloped but it threatens the “Vibe” and cultural relevance of Hawthorne itself as a place that is “Portland”. I would advocate for curation and sensitive redevelopment in these areas that fosters more creative opportunities and keeps our main streets alive. Once these areas are secure as “Cultural Attraction Districts” for local arts, culture, and entertainment we can create incentives for more events to happen in these areas.

Have you reviewed the recent “Our Creative Future” multi-county cultural plan (linked above)? Would you endorse the plan as a candidate?

I have reviewed and support the goals of the plan. I think it’s important to place the plan in the context of larger systemic changes that are needed to support the arts–particularly around housing access and affordability.

Portland is facing job losses, particularly in the downtown core. How can arts/culture workforce investments be part of a wider strategy to improve the workforce outlook for the region?

When I meet people who have lived in Portland for many years, I hear so often that what originally drew someone to Portland was its arts and culture scene. I know many people who worked as musicians or visual artists or writers until the cost of living made it impossible for them. Portland has always been a destination for arts and culture, but in the past this was because it was an affordable place to try things out, and now that opportunity has dried up with our soaring cost of housing. We have some really beautiful venues, and art and music is always going to be part of the spirit of Portland, but we have to protect and nurture that spirit through our policy choices.

We need to start understanding that nurturing the arts, whether through grants or affordable housing or all of the above, in turn becomes an economic driver: Being able to go out and see a performance or exhibit is such a big part of the local economy.

Arts, culture, design and creative entrepreneurship are key elements of Portland’s national and regional brand. Portland has the fourth-highest concentration of artists in the nation, after New York, San Francisco and Los Angeles, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. What policies or investments would you back to ensure that arts, culture and the creative economy are part of the city’s priorities in investments and new policies?

As I mentioned above, the primary thing I think about is affordability and access. I am married to a writer, my campaign manager is a writer, and I know many artists and artisans who do not earn enough money to stay here, even while contributing to the culture of our city, giving performances, and supporting fellow artists. When I talk about policies like social housing, or tenant protections, or safe transit and paved roads, I am thinking about a city that supports its artists and allows them to continue creating the culture that makes our city so desirable to begin with.

How do you see museums, cultural institutions, creative independent venues, nightlife and festivals as part of the downtown revitalization and general community stabilization?

Once again, these are so crucial to our city’s character and economic future. Organizations like Literary Arts and events like the Portland Festival of Books play a huge role in bringing people downtown. Museums and performance spaces are so important. I think we need to encourage more of these kinds of events and spaces, rather than relying on luxury hotels and apartments to fill up our downtown buildings. A low-cost show at a local music venue turns into dinner or drinks at a local bar, or maybe even dancing! It turns into babysitting money for a high schooler saving for college. It turns into jobs for workers at local establishments and it turns into major opportunities for artists getting their start. These types of creative venues must be a big part of any revitalization plan.

Portland is home to an incredibly diverse range of cultural organizations, artists co-ops, and small businesses that make our neighborhoods unique and distinct. What small business and cultural activation ideas do you have for Portland’s neighborhoods?

I see so many opportunities to connect small businesses with artists in ways that nurture community. From grants for local artists to beautify the outside of buildings with murals, to partnerships between cultural organizations and small businesses to provide after-hours exhibit or performance space, the city and its arts policy workers have a big role in building bridges between groups, and providing funding opportunities for our local organizations to nurture the artists within their own communities. This is an area where I will be leaning on the knowledge of our city arts workers and the reporting and strategic planning they have done, and our local artists and institutions to learn what they need from our new form of government going forward.

Have you reviewed the recent “Our Creative Future” multi-county cultural plan (linked above)? Would you endorse the plan as a candidate?

As a candidate, yes easily. As a councilor, arts and culture are important to me and will be considered in all i do. The council will consider the plan when the existenial issues have been addressed.

Portland is facing job losses, particularly in the downtown core. How can arts/culture workforce investments be part of a wider strategy to improve the workforce outlook for the region?

Makers make money and attract other makers. culture makes life better and attracts more makers.

Arts, culture, design and creative entrepreneurship are key elements of Portland’s national and regional brand. Portland has the fourth-highest concentration of artists in the nation, after New York, San Francisco and Los Angeles, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. What policies or investments would you back to ensure that arts, culture and the creative economy are part of the city’s priorities in investments and new policies?

make arts and culture part of the checklist applied to all new policies.

How do you see museums, cultural institutions, creative independent venues, nightlife and festivals as part of the downtown revitalization and general community stabilization?

these are all self creating and self sustaining and should be encouraged. the council should encourage and support these and make sure city government does not present an impediment.

Portland is home to an incredibly diverse range of cultural organizations, artists co-ops, and small businesses that make our neighborhoods unique and distinct. What small business and cultural activation ideas do you have for Portland’s neighborhoods?

i would like to see Portland move to a 20 minute village model which would inherently enhance all of this.

Have you reviewed the recent “Our Creative Future” multi-county cultural plan (linked above)? Would you endorse the plan as a candidate?

Yes, and I would be happy to endorse this plan. Arts and culture are some of the things that make our city truly special, and in order for them to thrive, City Council needs to take a proactive approach to grow the local cultural sphere and ensure that artists can thrive in Portland.

Portland is facing job losses, particularly in the downtown core. How can arts/culture workforce investments be part of a wider strategy to improve the workforce outlook for the region?

As the office real estate industry has suffered since COVID, the blueprint to bring people downtown and into neighborhood centers has been clear: events. Whether it’s the Waterfront Blues Festival, the Cathedral Park Jazz Festival, the summer concert series at Pioneer Courthouse Square, or live music at the countless street fairs, farmers markets, and neighborhood block parties around town, these events are a huge draw and bring large numbers of people into the area, incentivizing economic activity as well as appeal for development. By working to invest in these events, the artists that play at them, and the staff that put them together, we can change the narrative around the areas of town in which they’re hosted and spur increased economic activity and development.

Arts, culture, design and creative entrepreneurship are key elements of Portland’s national and regional brand. Portland has the fourth-highest concentration of artists in the nation, after New York, San Francisco and Los Angeles, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. What policies or investments would you back to ensure that arts, culture and the creative economy are part of the city’s priorities in investments and new policies?

Arts and culture are among the things that make Portland the special place that it is. Keeping local investment in the arts scene is vital to ensure that Portland stays one of the best places to be an artist in the country. On a more practical level, I think that combining arts with other forms of infrastructure is a great way to ensure that funding is kept up through future budget cycles, such as the successful previous city initiative to commission works from local artists to decorate electrical boxes and trash cans that were prone to vandalism.

How do you see museums, cultural institutions, creative independent venues, nightlife and festivals as part of the downtown revitalization and general community stabilization?

Cultural institutions play an incredibly important role in the life and vitality of any neighborhood. No matter what kind of police presence you have on a street, nothing is a substitute for creating a sense of community and safety like crowds of people going to restaurants, concerts, or events. The more we invest in these organizations and make downtown and the surrounding neighborhoods destinations, the more active they will be and the safer they will become.

Portland is home to an incredibly diverse range of cultural organizations, artists co-ops, and small businesses that make our neighborhoods unique and distinct. What small business and cultural activation ideas do you have for Portland’s neighborhoods?

With many of Portland’s commercial and office buildings suffering from high rates of vacancy, providing incentives for local investors and small business owners to occupy those spaces and kickstart their businesses to help activate those neighborhoods will be an amazing opportunity for us to turn a negative into a positive and revitalize these neighborhoods. Extended vacancy in any sector is bad, especially when we have such a housing shortage, and by creating incentives for local businesses to set up shop in these spaces, we can create thriving local communities.

Have you reviewed the recent “Our Creative Future” multi-county cultural plan (linked above)? Would you endorse the plan as a candidate?

I have not reviewed the plan.
But, to do this on a multi-county level has some real promise.
In the past I have seen a plan for a “Willamette County”. Where the three counties (Clac-Mult-Wash) were combined. And, there was a lot of kick back from some people. It was some time agoand the details are a little fuzzy now.

Portland is facing job losses, particularly in the downtown core. How can arts/culture workforce investments be part of a wider strategy to improve the workforce outlook for the region?

I think that some art projects can liven up the down town area.
Itseams that art on the walls of some buildinds would be good.
As most of the garfftypeople seam to respect the art on the walls.

Arts, culture, design and creative entrepreneurship are key elements of Portland’s national and regional brand. Portland has the fourth-highest concentration of artists in the nation, after New York, San Francisco and Los Angeles, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. What policies or investments would you back to ensure that arts, culture and the creative economy are part of the city’s priorities in investments and new policies?

Well lrts get with it AND become number one.

How do you see museums, cultural institutions, creative independent venues, nightlife and festivals as part of the downtown revitalization and general community stabilization?

These are very important and we should run our school kids through them.
And, hopefully get our kids to love the many aspects of all of our art.

Portland is home to an incredibly diverse range of cultural organizations, artists co-ops, and small businesses that make our neighborhoods unique and distinct. What small business and cultural activation ideas do you have for Portland’s neighborhoods?

I think that we can produce an art text book from our art for our schools.
So, our students can see the art from the differnt parts of our total area.
And, follow it up with tours of the area to better see our art out in the “Wild”so to speak.

Have you reviewed the recent “Our Creative Future” multi-county cultural plan (linked above)? Would you endorse the plan as a candidate?

Yes

Portland is facing job losses, particularly in the downtown core. How can arts/culture workforce investments be part of a wider strategy to improve the workforce outlook for the region?

Portland should be trying to grow all aspects of our economy, including arts and culture. The culture of Portland, as well as the concentration of creativity and design experts in Portland, are some of our critical advantages compared to other mid-sized cities. As Portland budgets out its investment in workforce, it should make sure to lean into these areas where we already have built in advantages.

Artists have often made use of cheap, abandoned, or underutilized spaces to create studios and new experimental businesses. I think the city could do more to encourage landlords to provide artists with free or low-cost short-term rentals in space downtown to encourage people to come there during all parts of the day.

Arts, culture, design and creative entrepreneurship are key elements of Portland’s national and regional brand. Portland has the fourth-highest concentration of artists in the nation, after New York, San Francisco and Los Angeles, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. What policies or investments would you back to ensure that arts, culture and the creative economy are part of the city’s priorities in investments and new policies?

First, we need to properly invest in education, including art education, so we continue to have a pipeline of new artists and designers in the city.

Second, we need to build more housing of all types to create affordable rent for housing, offices, and studios. You can’t have a city of creative entrepreneurs if they can’t afford to live in the city or their employers can’t afford to live there.

Third, we need to make it very easy for people to start new businesses in the city. Creativity is about experimentation, and the easier it is to experiment the more great things will emerge.

How do you see museums, cultural institutions, creative independent venues, nightlife and festivals as part of the downtown revitalization and general community stabilization?

The data is clear that we will not see a return to the downtown office rates that we had before the pandemic. You can’t have a viable downtown that exists just for office workers, with everything only open between 7am-6pm. The future for all downtowns across the country needs to be an economic mix. We must make downtown a place people want to be, and the way to do that is with cultural institutions, festivals, restaurants, etc.

Portland is home to an incredibly diverse range of cultural organizations, artists co-ops, and small businesses that make our neighborhoods unique and distinct. What small business and cultural activation ideas do you have for Portland’s neighborhoods?

I’m a strong supporter of the many festivals throughout Portland — local concerts in the park, street fairs, soapbox derbies, etc. I think the city should go out of its way to make it easier for groups to put on such events.

I also believe our unique small businesses are more than just a part of our overall economy but they are an important element of our positive image. Portland’s tourism promotion efforts should do more to highlight these small businesses around the city and get visitors to Portland to spread out and see all the amazing parts of our city.

Have you reviewed the recent “Our Creative Future” multi-county cultural plan (linked above)? Would you endorse the plan as a candidate?

Yes, I have read the plan. I would endorse the plan as a general guiding document with some practical actions that could be implemented in the near term, and some that are longer term more complex, structural issues to address. Funding to support the arts community will be impacted by the economic challenges Portland is facing, and therefore the arts community can also be called upon to be partner in economic recovery of the city, particularly the central city.

One specific aspect of the Our Creative Future plan I support is the identification and development of spaces for artists to practice, perform, and display their works.

Portland is facing job losses, particularly in the downtown core. How can arts/culture workforce investments be part of a wider strategy to improve the workforce outlook for the region?

If done intentionally, Portland can amplify and raise up our arts and culture communities as one of the City’s economic development strategies. Investments made by both private and public entities, to support arts and cultural events and experiences specifically, will produce a force multiplier for the local and regional economy. Additionally, I will focus on solutions to the issues of lack of affordable spaces to work and live, as a dual strategy for sustainment and retention of the arts community and reimagining some of the vacant spaces in the City.

Arts, culture, design and creative entrepreneurship are key elements of Portland’s national and regional brand. Portland has the fourth-highest concentration of artists in the nation, after New York, San Francisco and Los Angeles, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. What policies or investments would you back to ensure that arts, culture and the creative economy are part of the city’s priorities in investments and new policies?

With intentional economic development strategies focused on arts and culture, there can be a broad plan to develop the supports and structures for the arts and culture communities to grow and thrive in Portland. I stress this would have to be intentional and strategic and within the City of Portland organization, I would look to Prosper Portland, along with the City’s Vibrant Communities, the Mayor’s Office Portland Solutions, working with regional arts organizations including Metro and RACC, to focus on building out an economic engine to support growth in the arts and culture. I will specifically look at policy options around investments to create spaces for arts and culture.

How do you see museums, cultural institutions, creative independent venues, nightlife and festivals as part of the downtown revitalization and general community stabilization?

I see the experiential arts as key to revitalize the city and community, as an economic driver, and as a real strategy to rebrand Portland and establish stronger cultural and arts tourism. Arts and cultural events and venues are the placemaking of a community and we have an opportunity to reimagine Portland as an art and cultural center in the reinvestments and rebranding of the City. Concerted and intentional strategies around arts and cultural immersive experiences is something that again, I would look to a consortium of regional partners to develop with the City taking a lead role. Livability issues, perceptions of safety, and Portland’s reputation that are hurdles to overcome.

Portland is home to an incredibly diverse range of cultural organizations, artists co-ops, and small businesses that make our neighborhoods unique and distinct. What small business and cultural activation ideas do you have for Portland’s neighborhoods?

With our neighborhood association network and now the districting of the city under the new form of government, we have an opportunity to look at how we might tie support for arts and cultural incubation through district and/or neighborhood structure. This could be a hub and spoke model or could be a decentralized model, however I think we need to reimagine how the city engages with neighborhoods and the businesses and residents therein, including the small business communities in each neighborhood, with a goal of retaining the distinct character of each neighborhood community.