Origin Story of The Living Garden Corp. (TLGC)
Inspiration and Beginnings:
The Living Garden Corp. traces its roots back to the early 2000s when its founder, Claire Elizabeth Grace (CEG, pronounced “sage”), and her grandmother began a cherished tradition of participating in Last Thursday, an iconic street fair in the Historic Alberta Arts District of Portland, Oregon. Born and raised in Portland in 1994, CEG experienced firsthand the transformative power of community and art. She and her grandmother would spend countless hours crafting handmade jewelry, which they then showcased and sold at the event. These moments of creation and connection instilled in CEG a deep appreciation for art and its ability to bring people together.
CEG & Grandma Judy in 2016 at a Family Reunion
Witnessing Change:
Over the years, CEG observed significant changes, especially, in the Albina / Alberta neighborhoods of Portland’s cultural landscape. The city, once known for its vibrant, family-owned businesses and close-knit communities, was becoming increasingly corporate. This shift often marginalized local artists, particularly those from Black, Indigenous, and other communities of color (BIPOC). The rich cultural tapestry that had once defined neighborhoods like the Alberta Arts District was under threat. Determined to preserve and celebrate the unique voices of BIPOC artists, CEG is inspired to take action.
Founding the Nonprofit:
In 2018, CEG initiated the Celebrating Women of Color Project, a grassroots effort aimed at uplifting and empowering women of color through artistic expression. The success of this project highlighted a broader need within the community, and CEG's vision expanded. By October 2023, this vision expanded and materialized into The Living Garden Corp., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to creating intentional spaces that inspire, empower, and celebrate BIPOC artists.
Tule on Lace - 2018 Celebrating Women of Color fashion show participants at Jack London Revue
WE are The Living Garden.
Building the Mission:
The Living Garden Corp. is founded with a clear, lasting mission: to nurture an environment conducive to artistic expression, community involvement, and meaningful social impact. Recognizing the vital role of BIPOC artists in enriching our cultural tapestry, the organization dedicates itself to uplifting their voices and talents. CEG's own journey, marked by a personal arising and a dedication to holistic well-being, deeply influences the organization’s philosophy and approach.
First Steps and Future Goals:
The organization quickly gained 501(c)(3) status in November 2023, setting the stage for its ambitious initiatives. One of its first major projects was The Art of Healing Festival (#TAHFest), a vibrant celebration designed to showcase BIPOC artists and foster community engagement. This festival, and other initiatives like it, reflect the core values of The Living Garden Corp.: creativity, inclusivity, and social impact.
Commitment to Community and Diversity:
The Living Garden Corp. aims to secure a permanent location in the Alberta Arts District, a historic area at the heart of Black history in Portland. This space will serve as a sanctuary for artists, offering a multipurpose studio for various art forms, including an engineering and recording studio. The organization also plans to provide a wide range of classes, from hands-on art workshops to educational lectures and meditation sessions.
The Living Garden Corp. (TLGC) - Alberta House Prospect owned by PCRI
Future goals include expanding to permanent locations in each major neighborhood in Portland and hosting temporary pop-up galleries throughout the city. These efforts are designed to ensure that BIPOC art remains a vibrant and integral part of Portland’s cultural landscape.
A Broader Vision:
Beyond physical spaces, The Living Garden Corp. is committed to social equity, aiming to hire at least 50% BIPOC, women, queer people, and people living with disabilities, as well as at least 50% local contractors from the neighborhood. This commitment extends to every aspect of the organization’s operations, ensuring that the community is truly represented and empowered.
Join The Living Garden:
From its humble beginnings at Last Thursday to its current status as a beacon for BIPOC artists, The Living Garden Corp. embodies the spirit of community, resilience, and creativity. CEG’s journey, influenced by her grandmother’s love for art and her own personal awakening, continues to inspire the organization’s mission to nurture art, empower communities, and celebrate diversity. Through intentional spaces and empowering initiatives, The Living Garden Corp. is dedicated to making a lasting impact and fostering a more inclusive and equitable artistic landscape.