When Castle of Our Skins (COOS) first launched, it began as a concert series to celebrate the music of living Black American composers. But the vision evolved into something more expansive — a multidisciplinary Black arts institution rooted in cultural curiosity, creativity, and community.
Led by Executive Director and guitarist Dr. Ciyadh Wells, Castle of Our Skins has grown into a formidable force in Boston’s arts landscape. Today, their work goes far beyond the concert stage. Through classrooms, immersive experiences, and neighborhood engagement, COOS invites audiences to explore Black heritage past and present — celebrating both iconic and overlooked voices through the lens of music.
“Our mission is to celebrate Black artistry of all kinds,” says Wells. “Music is still at the center, but it’s also the vehicle we use to connect, educate, and uplift.”
A Moment That Captures the Mission
One of COOS’ recent programs, And Freedom’s Reign, brought that mission to life in a profoundly moving way. In partnership with the Museum of African American History, Project STEP, Boston Modern Orchestra Project, and Odyssey Opera’s As Told By initiative, the event honored the legacy of Frederick Douglass through his speech, “What to the Slave is the Fourth of July?” paired with stirring string quartet performances.
Audiences experienced Douglass’ words in an entirely new way — amplified and contextualized through music and space. For Wells, it was a powerful example of COOS at its best: honoring the past, celebrating the present, and sparking reflection.
“My hope is always that people leave our events more culturally aware than when they arrived. I heard from several attendees that this experience did just that.”
Investing in Infrastructure to Grow the Vision
As COOS’ programming and impact expanded, so did behind-the-scenes demands. Around this time, the organization began exploring the bold step of purchasing a physical home — a move that required careful planning, strategic guidance, and the right partners.
Through a connection with the Barr Foundation’s Powering Cultural Futures initiative, a six-year grant to build the capacity of BIPOC arts and communities in Massachusetts which is supported by TSNE’s Consulting and Cohort Learning teams, Wells was introduced to TSNE’s Shared Services team.
“What makes TSNE’s Shared Services stand out is how responsive and tailored it is,” says Wells. “We needed a team that could grow with us — and they’ve done exactly that.”
Rather than offering a one-size-fits-all model, TSNE’s Shared Services team partnered closely with COOS — providing operational expertise that freed the staff to focus on what mattered most: the art, the mission, and the people they serve.
Trusted Support Through a Big Transition
The process of purchasing and preparing for a physical space came with big questions — and a fair amount of uncertainty. That’s where TSNE’s Property Services team became invaluable, assisting Castle of Our Skins with operations budget advice, review of their physical space buildout and concepts, as well as some market research into competitor pricing. With access to dedicated professionals who could guide them through both straightforward and complex property management issues, Wells and her team felt equipped, not overwhelmed.
“Knowing we had a partner we could rely on made a huge difference,” she reflects. “It made what could have been a daunting process feel manageable and even exciting.”
TSNE also provided consulting support to help COOS align its strategic growth with its values — offering guidance grounded in trust and shared purpose.
What It Feels Like to Have the Right Partner
While TSNE offered essential technical support, it was the human connection that stood out most.
“Everyone we’ve worked with at TSNE has been easy to work with, knowledgeable, and just wonderful people,” says Wells. “Working with people you trust makes working together much more fulfilling.”
That spirit of partnership and collaboration has helped Castle of Our Skins grow not just in scale, but in clarity, confidence, and direction — knowing they have a strong foundation for the road ahead.
A New Home for Community and Creativity
One of the most exciting milestones for COOS came late last year, when the organization purchased its first home at 566 Columbus Avenue in Boston’s South End. Located at the intersection of the South End and Lower Roxbury communities, the space will become a home not only for COOS, but for the broader creative and cultural community.
The team is now actively fundraising for a flexible theatrical venue, state-of-the-art soundproofing to respect neighbors, and an inclusive, community-centered design. Construction is expected to begin in 2027, with a grand opening in 2028.
“This space is a dream in progress — a place where our mission can live, grow, and welcome others in.”
In the meantime, COOS’ summer programming continues to deliver free, joyful, and family-friendly arts events to neighborhoods across Greater Boston. Upcoming events are listed on their website.
Advice for Nonprofits Looking to Build
When asked what she would say to other small or mid-sized nonprofits considering working with TSNE, Wells doesn’t hesitate.
“Go for it,” she says. “Investing in your organization’s capacity and infrastructure is one of the best things you can do for your long-term impact. And TSNE understands that. They’ll meet you where you are and walk with you toward your goals.”
With the support of the Powering Cultural Futures initiative, the team identified infrastructure needs, which included accounting and payroll. Then, as the Shared Services team sought to better understand Castle of Our Skins’ financial picture, they recommended the TSNE Property Services team to offer support with the new building. With this holistic nature of TSNE’s support, the organization was able to seamlessly make progress on several goals.
Growing Boldly, Together
At the heart of Castle of Our Skins is a commitment to honoring legacy while boldly imagining what’s next. With a growing footprint and a trusted partner in TSNE, the organization is doing just that — creating spaces where Black artistry is celebrated, stories are told, and communities are transformed.
To learn more about TSNE’s Shared Services, visit tsne.org/our-services/shared-services. For Property Services visit tsne.org/property-management-service.