B
ay Area artists Larry Silva and Tom Franco have known Reno throughout the years mostly for its proximity to Tahoe. Silva spent summers in his parents’ cabin as a child. Franco spent time on the slopes. They eventually discovered the region’s burgeoning arts culture as well, including Burning Man, which served as a major inspiration.
So when they decided to expand their Berkeley-based arts collective, Makers Paradise, they felt called to consider Reno—literally. In 2019, A developer friend they had worked with on a similar project told them about a new space he was working on, in which he wanted to feature a heavy arts presence.
the Makers Paradise staff includes Director Lawrence Silva, Studio Manager Tina Mokuau, Facilities Manager Jim White, and Program Manager Kelsey Sweet. (Tom Franco, not pictured here, is the community engagement director.) Photo: Eric Marks
“He…
