building community steeped in craft

cia collaborated with the founder of “past lives” to establish th largest maker community in portland, Oregon. the business creates employment and income opportunities for the formerly incarcerated through fabrication services for external clients. additionally, artists and artisans rent studio spaces with access to the 26,000 square-foot industrial space filled with metal fabrication, wood shop, electronics, dark room, and other craft tools. members provide classes to extend their reach to the neighboring community.

cia created the space plans and served as an advisor to the start-up from strategic business planning to revenue goals. she researched, wrote, and designed the community’s inaugural website.