Casandra and her husband, both lifelong artists and owners of Public Shop & Gallery, have operated their creative space in Providence for two years, though they have lived in the city for seven. Located on Manton Avenue since 2019, the gallery combines a shop featuring local artists and a curated collection of art pieces, with partnerships such as Symposium Books. Initially hosting rotating exhibits, they now showcase longer-term collections alongside events like art parties and open mics, attracting visitors through a vibrant calendar of programming. As first-generation Americans, Casandra highlights the lack of diverse, inclusive creative spaces in Providence, contrasting their gallery with past community hubs like the now-closed Providence Black Repertory Company. They aim to provide a welcoming environment for local artists often overlooked by more privileged institutions. Despite remaining relatively underground after seven years, Casandra hopes the space will continue evolving to meet community needs. She values Providence’s rich culture, food scene, and strong local economy, appreciating the city’s support for small businesses and independent creators.