Jasmine Barrino, the visionary behind Frugal Civilization, is redefining the role of art in community engagement. As a Canton-based artist, entrepreneur, and 2025 ERA participant, Jasmine is merging creativity with purpose, using art to celebrate culture and innovation.

From Financial Planning to Full-Time Artist
Jasmine’s journey into the art world wasn’t conventional. With a degree in Consumer and Family Financial Services and a career in financial planning, she was on a structured path, until she realized it wasn’t for her.

“I left for lunch one day and never went back,” she recalls. “I knew that wasn’t what I wanted to do with my life.”

Inspired by the growing street art movement, she bought supplies, picked up a paintbrush, and never looked back. Since 2015, Jasmine has been transforming spaces with her powerful murals and visual storytelling.

Regenerative Placemaking and Community Engagement
At the heart of Frugal Civilization is a mission deeply rooted in regenerative placemaking- the process of cultivating spaces that foster community engagement and strengthen local identity. Through art, Jasmine captures the essence of communities, their heritage, and their aspirations.

Her mural at the Edward “Peel” Coleman Community Center in Southeast Canton is a testament to this mission. The piece is a tribute to the neighborhood’s resilience and history while inspiring the next generation. “I want people to see that their dreams are valid, that they can be their most authentic selves,” she says.

Jasmine’s work extends beyond murals. Frugal Civilization also offers branding and multimedia solutions for small to mid-sized businesses. One standout example is the integration of QR codes into murals, offering an augmented reality experience that connects communities to local events, social media, and business resources. Her challenge now? Refining her business pitch and tailoring her messaging. As a participant in the 2025 ERA program, Jasmine is learning to structure her business offerings while maintaining her artistic integrity.

Overcoming Challenges as a Minority Woman in the Arts
Breaking into the art industry hasn’t been without obstacles. “People prefer to work with those they already know or trust,” Jasmine explains. Without an established network, securing opportunities was difficult at first. That’s where organizations like the Stark County Minority Business Association (SCMBA) and the ERA program have played a crucial role. “Joining SCMBA and participating in ERA has been transformative. It’s connected me with like-minded individuals, mentors, and potential collaborators,” she shares.

Advice for Aspiring Artists and Entrepreneurs
For other creatives, especially women and people of color, Jasmine has clear advice:

1. Expect adversity. Challenges will come, but persistence is key.
2. Find your community. Support others, and they’ll support you.
3. Stay true to your purpose. Authenticity will set you apart.
4. Create opportunities. If they don’t exist, build them yourself.

With her art, business, and community-driven approach, Jasmine Barrino is more than an artist- she’s a cultural innovator. As she continues growing Frugal Civilization, her impact on Canton’s art and business scene is only just beginning.

CONTACT JASMINE FOR YOUR BUSINESS & ART NEEDS:
www.frugalcivilization.com
Frugalcivilization@gmail.com
Text or Call (833) 395-9799