When we think of artists in the Bay Area, a reliable contingent of big names come to mind, providing the region’s star power. But at KQED, we know that there are hundreds of lesser-known figures, either on stage or behind the scenes, who comprise the Bay Area’s soul.

Giving recognition to these artists is the simple purpose of Bay Brilliant, an annual KQED Arts series which launched in 2016 under the title Women to Watch. This year—with an expanded criteria to include not just women, but trans artists and men—the name may be new but the motivation is the same: to salute artists making significant contributions in their field. Some of them are well-along in their careers; others are just starting out. All of them deserve some shine.

Each weekday over the next two weeks, from Aug. 13–24, you’ll hear from 10 extraordinary people in music, dance, theater, visual art, performance, writing, illustration and more. Read their interviews online at KQED Arts, follow along with their stories on our Instagram at @kqed_arts, and tune in to KQED-FM to catch some of their insight and experience. Also: be sure to save the date for a special live event featuring artists from the series on Tuesday, Sept. 25, at the Swedish American Hall.

It’s easy to be an artist. But it takes someone special to be truly brilliant. We hope you’ll enjoy getting to know our Bay Brilliant honorees as much as we have.

—Gabe Meline, Senior Editor, KQED Arts