Mant¿s (Tyra Jamison)

About the 2023 first time Exposure grant: The $5,000 grant supports Tyra Jamison’s (Mant¿s) official entrance to the local, regional and general music scene in a way that is authentic to them.

Mant¿s writes from the intersections of Black, femme, queer and artist. They are Pittsburgh born and Hill District raised and have performed their poetry at universities, open mics, launch parties and book tours in Pittsburgh, Philadelphia and New York City. Mant¿s is creating work that reflects their healing.

As a multidisciplinary artist, a shift toward making music is an opportunity for the artist to be intentional. Over the last three years, they says that rather than a “rebranding,” music is more of an expansion of their artistry. Music has always been present in their performance as a poet.

“The seeds were always there, but as of now, I see them ready to show out as trees with flowers and fruit,” says Mant¿s.

The grant will go toward recording, mixing and mastering tracks, planning, promotional materials, ensuring event spaces are inclusive and accessible and other expenses.