Meet the Public Domain team
We’re a small editorial and programming crew committed to arts writing that’s curious, rigorous, and welcoming. These are the people shaping our coverage, partnerships, and community work—plus the voices you’ll see across our bylines.
Jordan Whitaker
Editor-in-Chief
Leads Public Domain’s editorial vision and commissions features that connect artists, audiences, and civic life. Jordan focuses on clarity, care, and context—so every post earns your time.
Elena Martinez
Managing Editor
Runs our publishing calendar, edits with a light touch, and helps contributors turn strong ideas into finished stories. Elena is the steady hand behind deadlines, copy flow, and polish.
Samira Patel
Senior Writer
Covers exhibitions, community projects, and the local ecosystems that make art possible. Samira reports on the practical details—funding, space, access—without losing the human story.
Miles Chen
Staff Writer
Writes essays and interviews that spotlight working artists and the questions behind their practice. Miles is especially interested in education, mentorship, and how audiences learn to look.
Avery Johnson
Design & Photo Editor
Shapes our visual standards—from image selection to layout details that make long reads feel inviting. Avery works with contributors to ensure art is credited well and reproduced responsibly.
Rafael Torres
Contributing Editor
Edits long-form pieces and special series, bringing a broader perspective from partner organizations and the field. Rafael helps us ask better questions—and make space for nuance.
ABOUT THE MASTHEAD
Public Domain is a nonprofit arts publication committed to clear, generous storytelling about the work that shapes our communities.
Public Domain began as a small publishing project alongside our programs—an easy way to share what we were learning from artists, partners, and neighbors. It grew into a living archive of essays, interviews, dispatches, and reflections that keep our work public and accessible.
We publish to document the arts as they happen: with context, curiosity, and care. Our editorial standards prioritize accuracy, attribution, and voices closest to the work, with thoughtful editing and clear corrections when needed. We aim for pieces that last beyond the news cycle.
Because we’re nonprofit, our independence is the point. We don’t run pay-to-play coverage, advertorials, or sponsored posts that blur the line between support and influence. When readers donate, share, and show up, they help keep this publication focused on artists and community—not clicks.
Notes from our readers
Public Domain makes local arts feel knowable and urgent. The stories are beautifully edited, but never precious—just clear reporting, strong context, and real care for the people making the work.
Alyssa Hernandez
Community volunteer & subscriber
I’ve used Public Domain articles in my classroom more than once. The writing invites discussion, highlights artists’ process, and gives students a way into the cultural life of our city.
Jordan Kim
Arts educator, public high school
The masthead matters, and Public Domain puts names and accountability up front. It’s a small detail that makes the whole publication feel more trustworthy—and more human.
Samira Patel
Freelance designer & donor
GET INVOLVED
Meet the team—and help shape what we publish next
Have a tip, an event to share, or an idea for a story? Connect with our editors, suggest coverage, or ask about contributing. We’re here for artists, readers, and community partners—and we’d love to hear from you.