Lailani Gibson is a New York based artist, cu­rator, and community builder focused on creating spaces where creatives can access real opportuni­ties and real connection. With a background in business management and event production, she blends strategy with artistry to design gatherings, platforms, and resources that help people move forward in their careers with clarity and confi­dence.

She is the founder of a growing creative ecosystem that shares curated job opportunities, grants, and events while also hosting free and low- cost community gatherings across the city. Her work centers on making the arts more accessible, collaborative, and sustainable for emerging and mid-level creatives. Through open mics, work­shops, and curated meetups, she brings together artists, performers, and professionals who are building meaningful work in New York City.

Her connection to Queens is both personal and community rooted. She has built relationships with creatives across the borough and continues to engage with Queens based artists, venues, and collaborators through events and local partner­ships. Queens represents diversity, ambition, and cultural depth, values that are reflected in her work and the spaces she creates.

 

 

NB: Other than the amazing diversity, what do you love most about Queens? How has Queens changed over the years?

LG: What I love most about Queens is how creativity exists naturally in everyday life. It is not confined to institutions. It shows up in parks, food, music, street style, and neighborhood gatherings. Art feels woven into how people live. The bor­ough has changed over time like the rest of the city, but that creative sense of culture constantly mixing and evolving is still very present.

NB: How does Queens inspire you? What are some of your favorite places to be inspired in Queens?

LG: Queens inspires me because so many dif­ferent worlds exist side by side. My favorite part of the year is when the circus comes under the train and hosts a variety of programs. It always re­minds me how special Queens is. Seeing that hap­pen in my own neighborhood always gives me a boost to keep creating. Sometimes inspiration comes from very simple moments like sitting in the park or walking through a busy street.

NB: What advice do you have for readers who are hoping to develop their artistic practice?

LG: Stay curious and keep practicing. Most artists build their voice slowly over time. Feeling nervous before sharing your work is normal. It usually means the work matters to you. Create the path, build the table and then invite others to join you.

NB: How important is personal connection and communication in your industry?

LG: It is extremely important. Many oppor­tunities move through relationships and conversa­tions before they ever appear publicly. Your network is your net worth.

NB: What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

LG: Build the spaces you wish already ex­isted.

NB: What do you wish more people knew about being an artist, curator, and community builder?

LG: Much of the work happens quietly. Peo­ple often see the event or the final moment, but not the long nights organizing, researching, and reach­ing out to people. You won’t always have all the answers, support or resources you need but keep going anyway. Remain focused on your dreams and goals.

NB: Do you have any events or projects com­ing up that you’d like to promote?

LG: Yes. I organize The Art Meetup, a series of creative gatherings where artists and neighbors come together to share work, meet collaborators, and create in community across New York City.

Events happen throughout the year in different spaces across the city. Readers can always see up­coming events, RSVP, or support the gatherings here: https://www.eventbrite.com/o/lailani-gibson- 51815476023

Some upcoming gatherings include open mics, creative mixers, and community art meetups happening this season.

NB: Can you tell us more about how you built relationships with creatives across the borough?

LG: Most of it started by simply showing up and listening. Over time people introduce other artists, venues open their doors, and the commu­nity grows naturally.

NB: Can you tell us more about how your work centers on making the arts more accessible and collaborative?

LG: Creativity becomes stronger the more people can participate. When artists have places to meet, share ideas, and find opportunities, they are more likely to sustain their work and support one another.

—Nicollette Barsamian

The Local-Express interview series was orig­inated on July 3, 2013 by Nicollette Barsamian.