Metro’s Community Placemaking program has teamed up with Placemaking US to host Gathering Places: Creative Conversation Series June 25-27. Facilitated by the placemaking leader Madeleine Spencer, this three-part virtual series features conversations with nationally-acclaimed creative placemakers and Metro’s Community Placemaking grantees who will share their inspirations, artistic journeys, and the unique challenges of working within community spaces.
Featured guests come from diverse disciplines within the creative placemaking realm, including arts federations, urban design, community arts, and more. The series celebrates the vast spectrum of artistic practices and shines a spotlight on Portland's flourishing creative community, fostering a deeper appreciation for centering the arts within its urban landscape.
The series is free and open to the public, and each event concludes with a lively question and answer session. Registration is required.
Register for sessions
Events
Tuesday, June 25, 2:30 to 4 p.m.
Theatre and immersive art honors Black history and culture
- LeJuano Varnell; Executive Director of Sweet Auburn Works | Atlanta, GA
- Clarice Bailey, PhD; Managing Director of PassinArt | Portland, OR
Wednesday, June 26, 2:30 to 4 p.m.
Building community through culturally specific marketplaces
Thursday, June 27, 2:30 to 4 p.m.
Generational community building through food, festivals and dance
About Placemaking at Metro
Metro’s Community Placemaking grants support community-led, equity-centered, arts and culture efforts that strengthen people's connections to each other and places they care about. Grants range from $5,000 to $25,000 and no matching funds are required. In 2023, the program awarded $200,000 to 10 community-led creative projects.
Learn more about Metro's placemaking grantees
Applications for the 2025 Community Placemaking grant cycle will be accepted August 9 through October 4 at noon. Learn how to apply and sign up for email updates to stay informed.