LEARNArt and Literacy Lives in Pico Union
The Art & Literacy Lives in Pico Union is an initiative that encourages local community artists, both adults and children, to showcase their creativity through artwork and literary exploration. The program will feature an indoor and outdoor gallery exhibition, awards for outstanding pieces, and a rotating display inside the Pico Union Library, fostering artistic expression and cultural engagement. With grant support, we aim to amplify local voices, celebrate creativity, and make art accessible to all.
What is the primary issue area that your application will impact?
Adult literacy
In which areas of Los Angeles will you be directly working?
Central LA
In what stage of innovation is this project, program, or initiative?
Expand existing project, program, or initiative (expanding and continuing ongoing, successful work)
What is your understanding of the issue that you are seeking to address?
Art & Literary Lives in Pico Union aims to expand opportunities for artistic expression and cultural engagement within Pico Union, an underserved and low-income community. Many local artists, both adults and children lack, accessible platforms to showcase their work, connect with others, and celebrate their creative voices. Additionally, exposure to diverse artistic influences and literary inspiration can be limited, particularly for young learners. By providing a space for community-driven art exhibitions, rotating displays, and engagement with literary figures, this program fosters creativity, strengthens cultural identity, and ensures that artistic expression remains a vital part of Pico Union’s public life.
Describe the project, program, or initiative this grant will support to address the issue.
The Art & Literary Lives in Pico Union project will create a platform for the community to share their creativity and engage with the literary and artistic world. Through an open call for submissions, participants will contribute original artwork and reflections on their favorite artists. Selected pieces will be recognized with awards and featured in a vibrant indoor and outdoor gallery exhibition, fostering community engagement and artistic appreciation. Additionally, both winning and non-winning works will rotate inside the Pico Union Library, ensuring ongoing visibility and celebration of local talent. With grant support, this program will provide resources such as paints and brushes, exhibition space, and outreach efforts to empower artists, inspire creativity, and strengthen cultural connections within the community.
Describe how Los Angeles County will be different if your work is successful.
If Art & Literary Lives in Pico Union succeeds, Los Angeles County will be enriched with a more connected and vibrant artistic community. Local artists, especially youth, will have greater visibility, fostering creativity and cultural pride. I know it will be successful because it builds on the success of Poetry Lives in Pico Union, an event the Friends have proudly sponsored for three years. This initiative uplifts the spirits of those highlighted, inspiring them to create more, share their voices, and deepen their connection to the arts. By making art and literature more accessible, this initiative will strengthen neighborhood identity and contribute to widen art tapestry across the county.
Approximately how many people will be impacted by this project, program, or initiative?
Direct Impact: 250
Indirect Impact: 2,000