Erin Salazar
Originally from the Mojave Desert in Southern California, Erin Salazar is a multidisciplinary artist, muralist, do-gooder, community organizer, and entrepreneur.
As an artist, Salazar explores “Women’s Work” within the decorative arts, elevating traditionally undervalued forms such as decorative plates and embroidered textiles. She treats these mediums as vital cultural artifacts, creating bold, vibrant works that celebrate and reframe their significance.
Salazar is the Founding Executive Director of Local Color, a San José-based nonprofit dedicated to building equitable pathways for artists and creatives to thrive. Through equitable pay, affordable space, and strong community networks, Local Color connects artists to economic opportunity and one another. Local Color has facilitated over 300 murals, opened 89,000 square feet of affordable creative space, and redistributed more than $2.1 million to support artists across the South Bay Area.
Salazar has been recognized for her leadership and impact locally and nationally. She holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts with an emphasis in Drawing & Painting Studio Practice from San José State University and a Master of Science Degree in Nonprofit Leadership from the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Social Policy and Practice. In June of 2026, Salazar will represent the City of San José at Harvard Business School's Young American Leadership Program.