The Multnomah Arts Center has been vital to Kristin Mitsu Shiga’s ability to make it as a self-employed artist.

She started MAC’s metalsmithing and jewelry program in Multnomah Village back in 2001 with her own tools and curriculum. Now, it employs Shiga plus six other instructors. The classes are affordable and usually full, often with a waiting list. Shiga has showcased her art at MAC’s gallery. She appreciates the center’s specialty equipment and ventilation, and meets at the center monthly with the other members of the Creative Metal Arts Guild.

All of this feels at risk if the upcoming Parks Levy renewal fails on the Nov. 4 ballot, she says.

“I really don’t think people understand what they would be losing,” Shiga says.

When people think of the Parks Levy coming up in the November

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