Painted Thingies
by Alaina Joy

Alaina Joy is a multidisciplinary artist, independent cu-
rator, and community organizer dedicated to using art
as a platform for advocacy and connection. As co-found-
er of Concrete Canvas Collective (www.concretecanvas-
collectivenj.biz) and the creative force behind @paint-
ed_thingies, she uplifts marginalized voices by curating
inclusive exhibitions, community events, and public art
experiences acress Philadelphia, Brooklyn and beyond.

Her artwork blends pop and street art aesthetics with bold
color palettes and unconventional materials, focusing on
themes such as women's tights, bodily autonomy, and LG-
BTQIA+ representation. Passionate about accessibility in
the arts, Alaina uses repurposed and found materials to
challenge traditional notions of fine art and open creative
spaces to all.

Beyond the canvas, she cultivates community through
grassroots art initiatives, cellaborative murals, and pop-
up shows that bring together diverse creators in shared
expression. Her work has been exhibited at Brooklyn Art
Cave, HeART and Aerial, PDXchange, and Fried Melon
Art Studios, with features in Bold Journey, Canvas Rebel,
and Voyage LA magazines.

With expertise in mixed media, public programming, and
arts advocacy, Alaina continues to build a vibrant creative
movement rooted in equality, representation, and radical
inclusion.