Ari Takata-Vasquez is a creative force working across entrepreneurship, art, urban policy, and design to shape vibrant, inclusive places. As a serial entrepreneur, she’s launched several ventures that blend storytelling and strategy—including Viscera Studio, a place-based creative agency; Shop Viscera, a design-forward retail brand featured in publications like the SF Chronicle and 7x7; and Opportuned, a small business support platform recognized by Pharrell’s Black Ambition Prize.

Ari’s creative collaborations span product design, content creation, and experiential activations that bring community-rooted stories to life. Her fine art, murals, and sculptural work have been commissioned by organizations such as Salesforce, Google, and the San Francisco General Hospital Foundation, infusing public and private spaces with intentional beauty and meaning.

With a BA in Architecture from the University of San Francisco and a Master’s in City Planning from UC Berkeley, Ari uses her deep understanding of the built environment to connect design, business, and policy. She currently serves on the SPUR Board of Directors and the Roots Community Health Advisory Board, and is a member of both ULI and the American Planning Association. A sought-after speaker, Ari has presented at events like the Lean Startup Conference, NYCxDesign, and Black is Tech, where she shares insights on entrepreneurship, creativity, and equitable urbanism.

Ari Takata-Vasquez is a multidisciplinary entrepreneur, artist, and strategist who creates vibrant places through the intersection of design, business, art, and policy. She’s the founder of Viscera Studio, a creative agency specializing in place-based storytelling and design strategy; Shop Viscera, a retail brand spotlighted by the SF Chronicle and 7x7 Magazine; and Opportuned, a tech platform supporting small businesses and a semi-finalist in Pharrell’s Black Ambition Prize. Her creative work includes mural art, limited-edition product collaborations, and brand activations that center community and culture.

Ari’s artwork and design have been commissioned by companies like Salesforce, Google, and the San Francisco General Hospital Foundation. With a BA in Architecture and a Master’s in City Planning, she brings a systems-level approach to building equitable and engaging environments. Ari serves on the SPUR Board and Roots Community Advisory Board, and is a member of ULI and the APA. She speaks nationally on entrepreneurship, urban design, and creativity.

ri Takata-Vasquez is a serial entrepreneur, artist, and placemaker working at the intersection of business, creativity, and urban policy. She’s the founder of Viscera Studio, a design agency focused on place-based storytelling; Opportuned, a platform for small businesses; and Shop Viscera, a retail brand featured in major outlets. Ari’s public art and collaborations have been commissioned by Salesforce, Google, and SFGHF. With degrees in architecture and city planning, she bridges design and policy to spark community-centered impact—and speaks regularly on entrepreneurship, urbanism, and creative strategy.

Ari Takata-Vasquez is a serial entrepreneur, artist, and urban strategist creating vibrant places through design, business, and creativity. She’s the founder of Viscera Studio, Opportuned, and Shop Viscera, with work spanning public art, storytelling, and systems change.

Multidisciplinary founder and artist creating vibrant places through design, business, and storytelling.