Studio Arisaema sprouted as a gathering. "10s Talk" (1/2024) was a panel centering the experiences of Black Trans women vocalists, performers, producers and engineers based in the Twin Cities. Produced and moderated by Yonci Jameson, the speakers included Kamilla Love, M. Ada Jamison, Ro Lorenzen and ZORA, artists and cultural workers emerging as part of the global presence of Black Queer and Trans creatives forging new lanes of access, gaining recognition for their contributions, and cementing their legacies within the music and arts industry.
Photography - Bear Boi Photo
From there we grew a bit, launching a sound-based residency for Black artists of marginalized genders. The "Studio Arisaema Incubator Program" was a six month-long program, in which 4 artists had access to a shared studio workspace equipped with standard audio equipment. Residents gained professional development support and enrichment through 6 monthly skill-based workshops led by professionals from within the community. This Program ran from 2024-2026, serving a total of 8 residency artists, 5 workshop artists and 50+ workshop participants. This program was housed within Public Functionary, with additional support from Forecast Public Art.
Now, we’re taking root in rich soil at our new recording studio space! While we no longer host a residency, Studio Arisaema remains a cultural hub and learning space for workshops including skills like: audio engineering, film scoring, music production, live instrumentation and more.
This studio is a carried legacy, passed down from Holly Tuhake of Salon Sonics. At Studio Arisaema we continue the legacy of queer woman operated studio space with honor and pride.
Studio Arisaema is at it’s beginning in a time where Trans lives - especially Black trans lives are under heavy attack. We do this work with love for our community and little to no financial backing. If you have or are connected to abundant resource, feel free to support us at the link below.