What happens when a public artist shifts focus from transforming city spaces to creating moments of quiet reflection? Nova Labs resident maker Tamao Nakayama shares her journey back to her Japanese roots, preserving traditional arts through hands-on workshops, cultural experiences, and the launch of her new venture, Tamao Atelier.

Four or so years ago when my father passed away, Christopher Sexton, woodshop steward and maker of fine dovetailed boxes (I think he’s made upwards of 60 of them), invited me to do some woodworking. He suggested it might be a good way to process things. Something inside me said "Great idea! I want to build an electric guitar!" Always with a gentle voice, he suggested maybe we start with a few other things first. Maybe learn a few things. Ok, Ok. So, with his help: I made a gu

Announcing the release of the 2025 Annual Report. It was year of both impact and opportunity at Nova Labs. Once again, the kindness, generosity, and resilience of our members and affiliates shone through. We continue to be deeply grateful for — and inspired by — this community.