LAPD

When I first heard we were going to Skid Row I’ll admit I had my judgments and my preconceived ideas of what “Skid Row” was. But, after visiting the Los Angeles poverty department I truly must say that I was inspired and touched by the people there. The art program that was started in the skid row community finds something that everyone who chooses to part take can relate to. The stories, skits, art work, and photography created by the members of skid row opened my eyes to what it truly means to find the good in any situation. The positivity and beautiful work that comes out of their life experiences and the message that is carried into the neighborhood was amazing. The courage to even bring that up to people who feel like everything has been stripped away from them is something I feel I wouldn’t have the guts to do. Seeing them and hearing their stories made me feel like I’m not doing enough with my art. I want to be a part of a program like that. I want to feel like I’m encouraging people to make the best out of what they may or may not have because at the end of the day art isn’t about how much you spend but simply the beauty of creating and sharing something that is a part of yourself. The members of skid row arts program bring joy to a place that has seen so much gloom and I am thrilled that I was able to experience that. My judgments have been put away and I really do admire their fearlessness and everything this program is doing for the community and the people of Skid Row.
katherine ortiz