Authored by Tony Tamayo, RPA Intern

Photo Credit: Tony Tamayo

Art is exploding in the mainstream in our city. We are beginning to see new art investments centered around community involvement and inclusivity. Paired with the rise of social media that was fast-tracked by the pandemic, artists in Richmond are being newly discovered and uplifted through the community on and off the cellphone screen. Art is important for many reasons: art uplifts our spirits, art can help relieve stress, art can be a source of income, and most importantly, art can preserve critical aspects of our culture here in Richmond. 

My name is Tony Tamayo, I’m an artist, and I am a new intern here at RPA. I am a Mexican-American graphic designer, photographer, and videographer. I love to hike, travel, and play in virtual reality. I began my journey in the arts when I moved to Richmond in 2015, after being inspired by the public art I walked by each day on my way to work. At present, ninety percent of my work centers on Richmond. In 2021 I launched FreeRichmondPhotos.com, a community resource where anyone can download a high-quality photo of Richmond for free. I have participated in exhibitions such as: Art in Windows, Bridge the Gap, and the Contra Costa College Eddie Rhodes exhibition. My art can be found online, in schools, and some businesses. 

In 2018 I became our city’s youngest Richmond Arts and Culture Commissioner at the age of 21. My focus on the Commission was communications, and I co-formed the Social Media Committee and Richmond Arts Connection. 

I hope to one day help transform the way communications are sent and received by artists. I hope to ensure equal access to information and want to find ways to help guide artists through grant applications.