Digital Promotoras: Homeland
Using documentary photography and photojournalism fundamentals, our Digital Promotoras students use imagery to expose hidden truths about our own communities and advocate for positive change. This semester, students were critical of the effect time has had on land and the consequent social spaces that are created as a result of its ownership. In the subsequent images, our students seek to form an archive of land possession within their respective neighborhoods. With cultures, histories, and traditions, the way in which land has shifted, excluded, and included individuals and communities are highlighted as a way to address changes that need to be made. Our students’ communities of Koreatown, Highland Park, Downtown LA, Echo Park, and Boyle Heights, document an ever-changing city, one which was unceded by indigenous communities and which has clear borders and barriers to access. In conjunction with Occidental College and OutFront/JC Decaux, their images are embedded within layers of the community and given the space for dialogue and reflection on how the land can define us as a society and the limitations that it has in keeping voices permanently silenced.
TEACHING ARTISTS
Gemma Jimenez and Leah Hubbard
TEACHING ARTIST ASSISTANT
Paola Jaime
MENTORS
Amanda Maddox, Brittany Bravo, Gabe Gamboa, Harper Kennington, Leah Choi, Melissa Alvarez, Piper Sellers, Ry Essi, Sydney Krantz, and Yanet Pinzon
view the map featuring each student’s project!
Ashley Guzman, age 14
About Me: Ashley Guzman is 14 years old, born and raised in Boyle Heights. She finds inspiration for shooting photography from her community. She enjoys history and learning the stories art carries. She first became interested in photography when she saw photos by other artists in Boyle Heights. She enjoys painting in her spare time with oil paint. Fun fact: she cares for a dwarf hotot bunny.
La Virgen de la Plaza. Mariachi Plaza.
This mural was created in 1994 by Juan Solis to provide a familiar figure to the community of Boyle Heights. La Virgen de Guadalupe looks over the plaza everyday and night. Many community members will leave flowers for the mother of Jesus. She is especially loved by the community; you can tell by the fact that she hasn't been tainted. She is respected amongst everyone.
A Collision. 2336 Cesar Chavez Ave. (at Soto St.).
This mural is El Corrido, completed by a collective of artists called East Los Streetscapers in 1984. The artists wanted to highlight chicano culture. Their piece in Boyle Heights gives the community something to love and admire. This piece is resilient, it displays both has both new and old artist who collided. The mural represents rebellion and change.
Los Musicos de la Bandera. Mariachi Plaza.
Mariachi musicians are an important part of Boyle Heights. This mural represents the musicians who take pride in their Mexicans origins. We also see the parts which have been covered by graffiti artists, representing a different type of art. Even through tough times, mariachis are still present and gather to find work.
Murales de Boyle Heights
Murales de Boyle Heights takes a look at our Latino culture and collects stories with art. These murals tell a story of the past and the present, and have meant a lot in my life as a member of the Boyle Heights community. Artists made these murals to be able to come together and create representation. La Virgen de Guadalupe, El Corrido, Mural Castellanos-- all were created by artists to show their love of Mexican culture. Boyle Height thrives with community artists. Whether graffiti artists or painters, history is being told through their art.
Ashley Romero, age 15
About Me: My name is Ashley Romero Gomez. I am 15 years old and a 9th grader at Garfield High School. I was born in East LA, grew up in Puebla, Mexico, and moved back to East LA when I was 7 years old. This is my third semester with Las Fotos Project. I was delighted to take part in my Esta Soy Yo and Digital Promotoras Urban Tapestries classes since they really encouraged me to grow as a person and a photographer. I really enjoy running because I feel accomplished when I'm done. I’m proud to have completed the Los Angeles Marathon three times and hope to run more marathons in the future. I enjoy using photography as a way to reconnect with myself and find new ways to see the world around me. Photography is a way of expressing myself and exploring new parts of my identity. My inspiration is my sister Maria, because she has paved a pathway for me to be who I am.
In by 12 out by 4. Ford Blvd and Olympic Blvd.
“Olympic Dry Cleaners” is a part of the neighborhood and has been there for many years. Its iconic mural was painted in 1975 and restored in 1995. It is a cultural, political, and historical mural. The title of the mural is “Read Between the Lines.” It asks people to see more than you would at first glance, just as I'm trying to encourage everyone to do for their own neighborhoods.
“Nothing to lose”. Eagle street between Woods ave. and Atlantic Blvd.
This mural is just around the corner from my school. I love how I can find these murals in my neighborhood because they always have something to say. In this picture the mural is saying multiple things at once, and the couch says “nothing to lose”, which at times becomes true to some, but others might not see that. It correlates to how people might tend to focus on one thing and fail to see the picture as a whole.
In the corner. South Bonnie Beach Pl and Noakes street.
Around the corner from my house there's a whole wall full of graffiti. I think that it's really pretty, especially in the late evening while the sun is setting.
unperceived
I chose to focus on my neighborhood, East LA, for this project. Through my photos, I am demonstrating the significance of murals, looking at their locations and the communities they are in. What mainly influences my photography is the environment I'm in and for this project, that was my neighborhood. By taking photographs, I was able to see things that I wouldn't normally have paid attention to. I want people that live in my community to see my photos and think, “That's East Los.” I encourage people to explore their own neighborhoods and to try to see the things they’ve overlooked before.
Brooke Kamille, age 18
About Me: My name is Brooke Kamille. I am a young Afro-Latina woman growing up in Los Feliz, Los Angeles, and I am a senior at my famous neighborhood high school, John Marshall Senior High. This semester's prompt is about community, and therefore I've had to expand my horizons in looking outside my five minute walk from home to school or school to home. As I hit multiple milestones this year, I look back on who I was then and where I am now. I’m changing my behavior to create a better future for the person I want to become. I’ve had many challenges in my senior year, including new responsibilities and obstacles as I grow more into myself. Still, I’m confident and excited for the next chapter of my life alongside my supportive partner. I’m ready to focus on my hobbies and turn them into passions. I’m prepared to be more independent as I learn and grow into a strong, positive, black female role model for those who've undergone the same hardships I did.
Close-At-Hand. Griffith Park Observatory.
Growing up and thriving in Los Feliz, this icon is no stranger to the Los Angeles community. Waking up to the sight of the Griffith Observatory has become part of my daily routine. Seated peacefully and proudly, watching over the stars in the sky and on the road, I obtained a different point of view, capturing what the Griffith Observatory observes looking off towards our energetic and polluted Downtown.
Coming Together. Hyperion Ave. and Monon St. Los Feliz, LA.
Trader Joe’s #17 on Hyperion is one of the two community grocery stores. With open doors between the hours of 8am and 9pm, the community which TJs creates is not only connecting the people to new cuisines but to our surrounding blocks. Giving every check out station a street name in the community, Trader Joes wanted to make known the important nooks and crannies that make Los Feliz, LOS FELIZ.
Los Feliz Marks-et. 3939 Tracy St. Los Angeles, CA. 90027.
Every Saturday starting at 6 am, this collective comes together to as a community of like-minded go-getters with the common goal of supporting one another and establishing their presence in the Los Feliz neighborhood and surrounding communities. In this photo, I was able to capture moments after the opening where vendors and clients are able to come together and create bonds over something as small as a transaction.
Los Feliz
"the happy"
An area with deep roots, beautiful homes, and great Hollywood history, I chose Los Feliz as my area of focus. I wanted to put a spotlight on an area that I’ve learned to call home. Focused on landscapes and architectural photography, my project is based on a monument I care so much for, Griffith Observatory. Comparing and contrasting my work with others showing the different styles and timing, I want others to think about how things are not forever. As we change and grow and mature, so does the world around us. In my most artistic part of my life, I was lost. I painted to express what I wanted to feel. I took photos because I wanted to remember something physically, and hopefully make an archive of the work I've created. This semester was definitely challenging with life outside of LFP but my time and effort has paid off. I was able to purposely (and accidentally) create a piece that really stood out for myself.
Eunice Shin, age 18
About Me: Eunice Shin is a student photographer based in Los Angeles, CA. Graduating from the LACES Class of 2022, her love for street photography developed through the AP Studio Art course, where her sustained investigation focused on the workers of Los Angeles, and learning about the rich history of Koreatown through KYCC’s Koreatown Storytelling Program.
White on White. Boyle Heights.
A man scratches off a lottery ticket in front of a small business, surrounded by goods and trinkets. Brings focus to color schemes of the shot.
Pupusas, El Corredor Salvadoreño. El Salvador Community Corridor, 12th/Vermont.
Woman making Salvadoran street food at a weekly market in Los Angeles, aplace for community to gather and enjoy different foods.
A Day at the Beach. Santa Monica Beach.
Vendors are a unique part of the Los Angeles experience and culture.
The Workers of Los Angeles
Throughout my time at Las Fotos Project, I’ve sought to explore the little details of Los Angeles through street photography. As I began carrying out this ambition with photo walks around the community-- timidly carrying my camera and snapping shots as quickly as I could-- I quickly found myself exploring places in my community that I previously wouldn’t have and looking deeper within the places I’d been a million times. In creating art, I also found peace in reflecting on my environment and being able to live in a moment for a few more minutes. I’ve found so much joy in creating new worlds and rediscovering my love for photography through the life of its own which each photo takes on. At LFP, I’ve found so much encouragement through the passionate and wonderful community of student photographers, and have grown to develop my own unique style of photography.
Isabella Reyes, age 15
About Me: Hi, I’m Isabella (Isa) and I’m in the 9th grade. I love using photography to show my point of view unapologetically. I got into photography because of my grandmother-- we would take pictures of little kids at their baptisms or first communions and sell them on keychains and calendars. I just fell in love with how the photos would come out and wanted to try it, but I was only 5 years old and could possibly have dropped the camera at any time. Now I’m 15 years old and I love to take pictures even more. I also like to skate and hang out with my friends.
The woman who sang to her prayers. Elysian Park.
This is my tia, Sewa Valencia, she is also known as Marsha. She sings on the ceremonial drum for the sole purpose of healing those willing to open their heart to it.
The man who listened to his prayers. West Covina Civic Center.
This man was having a little trouble when we (One Drumm) came and sang out prayers. He told us we didn't sound good, but after the second song he was listening to our beat and this is when I caught him dancing.
The women who danced to her prayers. Mariachi Plaza.
This is my other community. We (The Danzantes) were dancing in honor of the Mexican new year. Although I don't know this person well, I loved the way she was just standing in her power.
the people who danced, sang, and listened to their prayers
I was having trouble figuring out what I wanted my project to be about, but once I reviewed my images I saw the story come together. My people are the thing I would like to share most. I want to spread understanding of our teachings. I want others to know that what we do, our ceremonies, burning sage, is all done not to harm, but rather to help heal. Others can help this process by coming into an agreement to coexist with us peacefully. I want people to feel, when they look at my pictures, the way I felt when capturing them. I also think that just because my images have captions, it doesn't mean that people can't create another story out of my own.
Jocelyn Pena, age 18
About Me: Jocelyn Pena is a 17 year-old, first-generation American student born and raised in Los Angeles. Her interest in photography started in 8th grade when she bought her first camera. She taught herself about photography and loves exercising her creativity through the medium, as well as through other outlets like piano and ceramics. A self-proclaimed science nerd, Jocelyn dreams of earning a degree in biology and becoming a woman in STEM.
As a student in Digital Promotoras, she is exploring the history and cultures of Downtown LA. This semester, her goal is to document and share the city through her images.
Tortilleros Mexicanos. 845 N Alameda St. Los Angeles, CA, 90012.
From the puestos to the dresses, Olvera Street is extremely vibrant. There are bright colors everywhere. This is evident in this image of the tortilleros, which are baskets designed to keep your tortillas nice and warm. The colors red, yellow, green, blue, and purple are essential to Olvera Street's art and culture. Color is an important part of Mexico’s history, and of what makes it so beautiful.
Nancy. Olverita's Village at 845 N Alameda St. Los Angeles, CA, 90012.
Nancy Morales has been working at Olvera Street for many years. She arrived in the United States in 2007 in order to give her children, whom she left behind in Mexico, a better education. Although she recently lost her son, she says that she feels peace in her heart because God has given her strength. Nancy is a loving mother, a hard worker, and an essential part of this community. She writes, “My story is important.”
Making Pork Chops. Casa California at 845 N Alameda St. Los Angeles, CA, 90012.
Even the smallest characteristics of a person can say a lot about them. Outside of the Casa California store at Olvera Street, a man is working on a colorful piggy bank. While holding the piggy bank with one hand and a coping saw in the other, he jokingly tells me that he is making “pork chops”. This image reminds me that many of the items sold at the puestos of Olvera Street are handcrafted and beautifully detailed.
Olvera Street
Olvera Street was settled as El Pueblo de Los Angeles in 1781. It is the oldest part of Downtown LA and a significant place for Mexican culture and history. My mom and I used to frequent Olvera Street when I was younger, and I grew very fond of it. I wanted my project to highlight its history and the lives of the people who work there, as well as to serve as a platform for telling their stories.
This spring, I returned to Olvera Street every week with my mom. I learned more about its past and eventually gained the confidence to approach and interview the vendors, performers, and other people who I found there; an extremely difficult but rewarding experience for me. In collaboration with the amazing people who I encountered and photographed, I have tried to represent the beauty of their individual voices, journeys, and crafts.
Karime Cebada, age 17
About Me: Karime Cebada is 17 years old, born and raised in East Los Ángeles, and is a student at Roosevelt High School. She enjoys painting, journalism, and exploring, and is also very creative when it comes to poetry. She likes to work out and loves to hike, walking through nature and viewing its beautiful landscapes. Karime has always been passionate about astronomy and is fascinated by anything having to do with space and the galaxy. This sparked her interest in astrophotography and she dreams of pursuing a future of traveling and capturing images from space-- even if her images don't make it to NASA, she would still pursue that dream. A friend introduced Karime to Las Fotos Project and this has been her first semester as a student. So far, she has learned to love photography and has made it a hobby of her own. She enjoys the environment and community it offers, and she hopes to use what she’s learned in pursuit of her dreams.
Generation Wonders. Evergreen Cemetery.
Evergreen Cemetery was established in 1877 and holds a lot of history and many generations of East Los Angeles families. It is an iconic place in the community, and the largest cemetery in the city. This photo was captured at sunset when people often go for runs or walks around the cemetery.
Unexpected Treasure. Evergreen Cemetery.
This photo was so unexpected, it wasn’t planned. I wasn’t looking into the lens and the photo wasn’t at eye level, yet it stood out to me a lot because of the lighting and the depth of field.
The Famous Landmark. El Pino.
I captured this photo while on a walk to “El Pino”, which is a famous landmark in the community. It was a featured location in the famous movie “Blood in Blood Out”, 1970.
The Other Side Of East Los Angeles
My project is about my neighborhood and its reputation, and how that affects the way people view our community. I took the time to explore it and realized that by looking closer I was able to see the beauty within. It gave me a chance to see how lovely Los Angeles landscapes can be. Until I chose my neighborhood to photograph, I personally never realized that there was a whole other East Los Angeles that was so cultural and adventurous with amazing history. There are many parks in our community that are beautiful but sure do need to be shown more love. Through my photos, I want to show my view of the East Los Angeles community so people see that we’re more than what they've heard about us. Throughout this semester, I learned that photography can be difficult-- I won’t lie about that. It can be discouraging at times, but being open minded and positive totally changed my perspective of it all. The goal of my project is to show people how wonderful East Los Angeles is and I hope that by showing its beauty, people will grow to love and respect our community.
Kimberly Espinosa, age 17
About Me: Kimberly Espinosa (she/lebe’) is a Zapotec photojournalist from Koreatown, Los Angeles whose work highlights themes of family history, growing up, and community solidarity. She joined Las Fotos Project in the spring of 2021 as part of the Digital Promotoras branch.
Being raised in a community where oral history is a significant method of preserving ancestral memories and knowledge, she understands the importance of incorporating this into the work she documents. She enjoys and is inspired by walks around the neighborhood as a way to remember the times she spent going to buy groceries with her parents, hanging out around Koreatown, or even waiting for the bus to get around. Kimberly’s appreciation for storytelling grows as they photograph and develop community interviews honoring memories of people and places.
This fall, Kimberly will be attending Northwestern University as a first-year student in the Medill School of Journalism.
El Changarro Oaxaqueño Market. 8th/Catalina.
El Changarro is a point of access to cultural foods and home items for our Indigenous community living in Koreatown. My dad and I would stop here often after he picked me from school to buy groceries for my mom to cook our family meals.
La Flor de Mayo Market. 7th/Shatto.
Walking into La Flor de Mayo Market is something that brings me so much joy. It's the liquor store I have been going to for mandados, or errands, when Mom needs something for home. It's where I stop for a snack and drink when I'm coming from school. It's the place where I have also started practicing my Korean. I feel happy to know that this place continues to exist despite all the challenges our community faces through gentrification.
Vermont Dental Group. 7th/Vermont.
For a very long time, the Vermont Dental Group stood on these grounds. Most importantly, it became a hub that provided shelter for some of our unhoused neighbors. I read more about this through a Los Angeles Times article which wrote the stories of the community living there. Now, the Vermont Dental Group is no longer there. There are signs all over the gate that read ‘PRIVATE PROPERTY’.
213
When I think of Koreatown, I think about home. I also think about the number 213. To me, 213 signifies an immediate connection to the people of Koreatown, instantly recognizing each other's area code and knowing the other person is also from Koreatown when exchanging numbers. I have grown close to many of the people in the neighborhood and to the places that bring us together. I have also seen the grief in our community as our neighbors are forced to move due to increasing rent and the closure of local sites that foreshadows the destruction about to begin. The images in 213 are a documentation of the stories of the people and places of Koreatown, the place I have called home for the past 17 years.
Lauren Cho, age 16
About Me: Lauren Cho is a Korean American artist, journalist, and photographer from Koreatown. Because her Korean identity is important in her life, Lauren wants to document the story of the Koreatown community. Las Fotos Project, an organization dedicated to teaching youth photography, has given her the instruction, mentorship, and community to encourage her to pursue photography.
Learning about Koreatown has expanded her knowledge about her Korean community and her Korean American identity. In learning more about the history of the Koreatown neighborhood, the juxtaposition of development and underdevelopment in the town, and the Los Angeles Riots, Lauren is developing her concepts and telling the story of her community.
Lauren is learning to harness a diverse range of photography, from documentary to still life, and to observe the life around her. Her project has pushed her to become more aware of the space surrounding her, the history of it, and the communities within the Koreatown region. Her culminating project this semester will be focused on homeland; she will be spotlighting her own neighborhood, Koreatown.
The Gift of a Gray Facade. Normandie Avenue.
I believe that this photo is especially humanizing: a little child, alone in a restaurant. All the colors are muted and there is minimal contrast. So what makes this photo special? What makes it a gift? For me, this gift represents the facade–the outward appearance– that Koreatown maintains over its truths. There are gloomy and gray days. There are houseless people. There are economic struggles. Despite this, people still continue working, loving, and living.
The Gift of Chaos. South Vermont Avenue.
While on a walk around a rebuilt community, I found great resilience. Blood, sweat, and tears have truly built up what was once burned. On a chaotic Thursday afternoon while at the laundromat, it seems like everything is in disarray— scattered clothes, vandalized glass windows, moving people, and confusing colorful reflections, but there's beauty in that, too. This gift shows the daily lives of Koreatown residents and what it means to be part of this community.
The Gift of Koreatown: Past and Present. South Western Avenue.
Las Fotos Project propelled me to research and experience the people of my neighborhood and its many valuable locations. This entire journey led me to Gaju (California) Marketplace. This is the building where young Korean men protected their community from the LA Rioters ready to loot and burn anything in their way. It represents what Koreatown stands for. This is my final gift to you—I would like to show you what makes this place so beautiful to me.
한인타운 보자기 (Koreatown Bo-Ja-Gi)
A newcomer might be amazed by misplaced skyscrapers growing like weeds, while dilapidated houses creak with the breeze.
How does this happen? Well, Koreatown boasts several surprises. It endured the 1992 LA Riots. Despite the circumstances, different groups in the neighborhood have come together– in healing, rebuilding, and living. Looking through the reflections of Koreatown, we can see the history of the neighborhood and those who live in it.
Koreatown Bojagi, my project title, is a type of patched fabric that is used to tie a bundle of valuables. It represents the togetherness of the people in Koreatown, my homeland.
Each of my final images are gifts in this valuable bundle. The Gift of Chaos looks at disarray in a different light. The Gift of a Gray Facade shows how people mask their hardships. And the last gift, The Gift of Koreatown: Past and Present, is my gift to you.
Leah Flores, age 14
About Me: I am Leah Flores, a 14 year-old, Mexican-American, non-binary (demigirl) teen. I was born and raised in Los Angeles in a minority, low-income household, and moved houses a lot when I was a kid, but spent much of my childhood in Boyle Heights. Growing up with single, teen parents poses many challenges, and it plays a big part in who I am today. I am curious and aware of myself and the world around me. When I’m older, I hope to be more creative and confident in myself, and to be able to express myself and my interests. I am interested in and curious about what goes on in the world and what I can do for my community. I am very interested in pursuing photojournalism, as it allows me to tell a story in a single photo.
Voluntad del Sol. East First Street.
As a child, I went with my mom to community meetings or events she helped host. My mom’s friends entertained me by taking me next door to the liquor shop for snacks. My favorite was strawberry shortcake ice cream. When I went back to photograph the store, it looked the same as I remembered it, but when I looked into the mirror, I could see how much I’ve grown over the years. At least the ice cream still tastes the same.
Reaching for the Skyline. Near Pecan Park.
For a few summers, I would go to Pecan Park for summer camp, or with my mom to more community meetings. Growing up in Boyle Heights, you could see the skyline from many places. It always seemed so far, like a different world, glorified by media and screens. It felt like reaching for a dream, but take a step back and look around at your community instead reaching for your closest comfort that feels like home.
Walk of Wonders. The Mercadito.
I spent most of my time in Boyle Heights with my mom going to different events, eating, and more. She is an advocate and organizer for the community and has used her platform to bring awareness and help others. She has raised me to have an understanding of the world with compassion and without boundaries. She has helped push me out of the comfort of my shell, to share my own story and place to my community.
Flowers in the Sun: Remembering Boyle Heights
My project reflects on my childhood memories living in Boyle Heights. Working on this project revealed my place in my neighborhood, new information about my neighborhood that I couldn’t see when I was younger, and the changes we experience. This project also helped me learn to appreciate my neighborhood and the people in it. It has helped me process my experiences as stories. In addition, my work reflects on how people and places in Boyle Heights have shaped me into who I am today. My project at Las Fotos has helped me move from the background in someone else’s story to become a storyteller of my own. It shows my new role as a placekeeper in the neighborhood I grew up in. I want the viewer to think back on their memories and become storytellers. I also want them to think about the positive and negative impact of change on their neighborhood.
Lola Garcia, age 13
About Me: Lola Garcia (she/her) is from Glendale California. Her mom is from Saint Lucia, an Island in the Caribbean, and her father is from Glendale, California, but his father and mother are from Argentina. She is 13 years old and in the 7th grade, currently attending Saint James-Holy Redeemer School in LA. She would describe herself as funny, crazy, and a little too loud when around the right group of people. She really likes taking pictures, it's truly made her really happy these past few months. It helps her escape reality and makes her forget about all of her problems. She has known that she liked taking pictures from a very young age, when she was 9 years old. The first time she got a cell phone, she tried taking pictures and really liked it, and soon she realized that she was pretty good and wanted to continue to do it, maybe even as a job for life.
South Pasadena Fair Oaks Pharmacy. 1526 Mission St. South Pasadena, CA 91030.
I’ve never been inside the Fair Oaks Pharmacy, but I’ve always wanted to. It's been there for over 100 years and I really want to see inside of it. My father said that he went there as a kid and I hope to go with him soon. I really like that this photo has neon lights on the sign, and how it's perfectly straight ahead of where I'm aiming my camera. This picture would be very different if it was taken during the day because it wouldn’t have the same lighting.
Movie Theater. 1023 Fair Oaks Ave, South Pasadena 91030.
I never went into the movie theater before it closed down, but I would’ve loved to. I really like this photo because it shows that this is a fairly old movie theater for the fact that it has a ticket booth, whereas newer movie theaters normally don't. This movie theater has been around since 1925.
Metro South Pasadena. 950 Meridian Ave, South Pasadena 91030.
This is a picture of the Metro Gold Line located in South Pasadena. I really like this photo because this is a pretty famous railroad track. A lot of people know about the Gold Line, because it goes from South Pasadena to East Los Angeles. I’ve been on the Gold Line many times and it's definitely a fun experience. The train goes over freeways and under tunnels and shows a lot of the old buildings and history in Los Angeles.
South Pasadena California
I chose South Pasadena because I’ve been living there for over a year, and I think it's a very pretty neighborhood. I enjoy making art. The most challenging thing about being a photographer is trying to locate the perfect spot to photograph. I look for great lighting, and something perfectly framed, following the rule of thirds. In conclusion, I enjoy living in South Pasadena because it helps me remember not only to be more creative with my art and to try different things, but that to embrace new things in taking pictures is an art.
Lucy Hwang, age 17
About Me: Lucy Hwang (she/her) is a Korean-American photographer from Koreatown, Los Angeles. Through the Las Fotos Project and Koreatown Storytelling Program, she has learned to be reflective of her community’s stories, hoping to capture each one through a seemingly mundane lens.
Lucy joined Las Fotos Project in the spring of 2022 to expand her artistic interests, and has learned to utilize photography as an avenue of storytelling through her perspective. She loves going on photo walks around her neighborhood to capture images ranging from the remnants of her old cram school, to an accumulation of garbage on the intersection of Vermont and Wilshire.
Photography has helped Lucy explore her boundaries of comfort in the most exciting way. She plans to continue shooting beyond this semester, as she’ll be visiting Seoul, South Korea for the first time this summer to capture through photography the story of her mother’s hometown and family.
This fall, Lucy will be attending Carnegie Mellon University as a first-year student studying economics.
Grit. 3751 W 6th St, Los Angeles, CA.
A man walking along 6th Street by the recently vacated Dosan Ahn Chang Ho Post Office.
Hustle!. 3807 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA.
An overflowing public trash bin next to the 207 Wilshire/Western Metro Bus stop.
Pause. W 12th St & Fedora St, Los Angeles, CA.
Two rustic chairs perched on a porch on a cozy, cloudy day.
Koreatown, LA
My project focuses on the residents of Koreatown, Los Angeles: those who have spent their entire lives, just as my parents have, working to build a better life for themselves and their family. With this project, I aim to capture stories often overlooked through my perspective as a child of immigrants.
Recognizing invisibility is a major concept within my photographs: an elderly woman waiting patiently for the bus amongst a crowd, or even the silence amongst strangers walking past each other. I look for a certain quietude within my work– a single moment in time that should be acknowledged– because no one looks twice at a pigeon picking at a rotting apple or a woman shouting in the middle of a street. I try to recognize what often goes unrecognized: the stories lying underneath the seemingly mundane, the stories that appreciate and commemorate the lives of Koreatown.
Maryjane Joya, age 15
About Me: Maryjane Joya is a 15-year-old high school student who enjoys telling stories through photography, particularly in relation to their family and immediate environment. Born in Los Angeles and raised in South Central, Maryjane is excited to have the opportunity to explore their neighborhood and learn about its evolution through their participation in Digital Promotoras this semester. They look forward to developing a project that examines both the history of South Central and their personal memories of it.
Darleen Garcia, with her mom. Ross Snyder Park.
Among the families who come to Ross Snyder Park are Darleen Garcia and her mother, a duo who sell hot dogs and agua frescas five days a week. Working together for the last five years, they have served countless other families like mine who frequent the park. I spoke with Darleen who was warm and inviting, but her mother was too shy to be photographed. Now, however, she recognizes me when I come to their stall.
Los Tres Amigos. Ross Snyder Park.
Many people play soccer at my local park, including this group of friends–Alex, Alexander, and Eduar. These tres amigos live nearby and come here to play, as well as to hang out and watch games. Seeing me with my camera, they invited me to take their picture. Though hesitant, I began speaking with them and captured them in conversation with nearby vendors. This portrait encapsulates how the park serves as an important space where various communities can gather.
José Cruz. Ross Snyder Park.
Vendor José Cruz sells mangoes, tejuinos, and other goods at the main entrance of Ross Snyder Park, where he’s worked for the past 18 years. I remember buying mangoes from José as a child, and sometimes even receiving free candy from him, but I never knew his name or story. I still love buying mangoes from him, and José remains a positive, vital figure in our community.
Ross Snyder Park
El Parque Viviente
I was born in South Central and still live there with my family. For my project, I chose to document and explore my local park, Ross Snyder Recreation Center. Although categorized as a “dead park” in an article published by the LA Times in 1989, this place remains a lively, vibrant part of my local community and an important touchstone for me since childhood.
I interviewed vendors who have worked at the park for years, spoke with young people who play soccer and access the playground, and met new neighbors who come here frequently. By documenting the people who rely on this park as a place where they can gather, play, eat, relax, work, and support their communities, I want to show how alive this space can be.
Mia Figueroa, age 15
About Me: My name is Mia Figueroa. I am 15 years old and I attend San Gabriel Mission High School. I currently live in Alhambra. I love spending time with my siblings, watching them grow up makes me so happy. Besides photography, I am also a part of my school's varsity volleyball and softball. I grew up in El Sereno, and that is where I feel most at home. Photography is one of my favorite hobbies because I can convey one feeling in multiple ways. Las Fotos Project has helped me become more creative with my photography, and has helped me go beyond my comfort zone so that I can better my skills. I want everyone to be heard. I hope to give people who don’t have a voice a place to share their stories.
neighborhood for sale. N Marianna Ave.
El sereno is a target for gentrification because of its low property value and its close proximity to downtown. Many buyers are increasing rents for tenants and kicking them out if they are unable to pay. People who have never been homeless are now homeless. This is one of the many signs in El Sereno saying “Land For Sale.”
at dawn. The hills above Lombardy Blvd.
El Sereno’s landscape has changed over the years. This is our neighborhood: houses on top of other houses. The clutter and layouts of our homes make sense. The colors of the houses blending with the sunset provide a sense of calm. This area has not been hit by gentrifiers yet. This is the place I call home.
the city from here. ascot hills.
This photo was taken at Ascot Hills. This area is right next to Wilson High School, which is on the border of El Sereno and Boyle Heights. The people of El Sereno love the hills, because they show the beauty of this neighborhood. The view from here displays the big city!
Place of Serenity
I chose the neighborhood of El Sereno because I want to spread awareness of the gentrification in the place I grew up. This is a historically marginalized community that sits just outside of downtown Los Angeles. On any given morning, you will find tamales and champurrado for sale on street corners. With all of its communidad, the neighborhood is undergoing drastic change. Due to its prime location and low property values, El Sereno is an easy target for the displacement of renters and businesses by newer cafes and stores with bright colors and modern workspaces. Places like these continue to pop up beside old, run down warehouses-- bringing with them young adults. My family and friends that grew up here and still live in the neighborhood tell me they do not recognize the city they grew up in. Seeing the character of the neighborhood change makes them feel like outsiders.
Mia Gonzales, age 17
About Me: Mia (she/her) is a 17 year old photographer and artist based on the East Side of the beautiful city of Los Ángeles. She’s always bounced around different forms of art, but photography was something that continually came back. Growing up with the message that you need a stable job in order to be successful, there was no hope in even trying to get better at her arts. Until recently, while going through many environmental, emotional and mental changes, she’s quickly realized that making art and taking photos are her passions. She is driven to continue to grow as a person and artist, and though there isn’t a particular style to her photography, she’s embracing the flow of whatever ideas and challenges come her way.
MARTITA'S LOCKDOWN. Pasadena Ave , Ave 26 90031.
A family owned restaurant called Martita’s is shown completely boarded up. It’s been closed for over a year now, a complete ghost. It was run by a woman named Martita, and was affordable for a lot of families living in Lincoln Heights. My eyes were drawn by how intensely this building was boarded up, one of many abandoned and forgotten family owned businesses.
Living Vibrantly. Ave 28 & Workman st 90031.
Beautiful murals and street art cover these family run corner stores on Avenue 28. Even though there are many businesses who’ve left, there are many that still stand proudly and vibrantly, representing our community.
Are you Alive?. AVE 26 90031.
What was once a place where you and your family could go to get some movies is now a place to get skate supplies, Star Video now Inner City Skate. Those kids who were once picking out movies are now teens and adults. A new generation will create new memories at this location picking out decks instead.
Lincoln Heights going into new heights
Lincoln Heights has been through continual changes throughout its time, whether it be the people, the buildings, or the culture. It's important to me to document the place I grew up in, the Lincoln Heights I know and love which is shifting every day, and to preserve its history through photographing it. I hope to shine a light on all the community buildings, restaurants, stores we’ve lost and ones that are being newly built. The fight for property has been a growing tension in this small community. Historical areas have been torn down for new properties and homes, resulting in unaffordable housing in an area which was once accessible to lower-income families.
Pamela Estrada, age 16
About Me: Pamela Estrada (she/they) is my name. I am 16 years old and a junior at John Marshall High School. I was born in Guatemala and migrated to Los Angeles when I was four years old, where I have resided ever since. I enjoy reading, listening to music, and being alone. I may appear shy and anxious at first, but after some warming up, I am a very gregarious person. Even though I prefer to stay in my comfort zone, I am always open to new experiences. Every year, for example, I like to try something new, and this year I decided to take the plunge and learn about photography through Las Fotos Project.
At Atwater Village. The Glendale Blvd.
At the heart of the Glendale blvd also known as the Atwater boulevard you can see the sign letting us know we are an Atwater. An image showing not only the sign but the businesses that reflect the boulevard.
The look of the River. LA River, at the Bridge of the Glendale Blvd.
A photo that was taken from a bridge overlooking the LA River. A photo depicting the raw beauty of the river. An image that shows the calmness of the river and nature in general.
Atwater Art. Crispy Crust Glendale.
Yet another sign mentioning Atwater just so that you know and don’t forget that you are in Atwater. This is not just a sign but also a piece of artwork made by someone very talented and artwork needs to be shown off.
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I have grown up in Atwater Village for over 10 years and it has influenced my life. Atwater Village welcomed my family and myself and has shown us great kindness. I want to present how the river and Atwater Boulevard make Atwater an exciting place to live.The dynamics of the architecture, the people, the store fronts, the curb appeal of the streets-- the authentic nature is what makes Atwater a compelling place to live. I want to illustrate that even the most ordinary objects have enormous beauty, whether it's a street, a tree, or even a sign. I want to demonstrate that there are intriguing things to photograph even in a seemingly mundane suburban area. With my photographs, I wish to portray the beauty that exists inside everything.
Selene Medina, age 17
About Me: My name is Selene Medina. I am a 17 year old from Lincoln Heights. I enjoy taking pictures of my community and highlighting the details that make it unique. I want people to see the beauty in low income neighborhoods, while also bringing awareness to the racial injustice that occurs around us. I hope to continue to enhance my photography skills in order to accurately represent my people. Other art forms, especially music, have always helped me with inspiration for making pictures. I currently attend high school in Highland Park, and I am a member of the Las Fotos Project Digital Promotoras program.
¡Disfruta la cultura!. 3600 N Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90031.
Every morning I walk past this little restaurant and it continues to catch my eye. I feel the strength that radiates from this small business, and want to give it the recognition it deserves.
La Virgen en Lincoln Heights!. Mission/Baldwin, Los Angeles, CA 90031.
La Virgen is someone who is represented in Lincoln Heights very often. Lincoln Heights cherishes her presence and she gives the community a strong push. In this depiction, the bars make her inaccessible.
Ayuda a los vendedores ambulantes!. Ave 26/Humboldt, Los Angeles, CA 90031.
In Lincoln Heights, street vendors are constantly out trying to make a living. They reflect the strength and beauty of my community. Support Street Vendors!
Lincoln Heights En Detalle
I chose to focus on Lincoln Heights for this project. As I took pictures of the neighborhood, I had intentions of portraying the beautiful community that has housed me for most of my life. Lincoln Heights is full of so much culture, and I wanted to capture how the people of the community have been able to keep it in such a lively state. Most times Lincoln Heights is represented negatively, so I wanted to take this project as a chance to depict it positively. When looking at my images, I hope that people can reminisce and feel nostalgic. There is so much strength and perseverance that my community has continued to keep and hold throughout the years. As I walked along the streets of Lincoln Heights, I was able to see every single detail that went into keeping it so strong. The bright colors and beautiful art spread throughout my neighborhood were my favorite parts to take pictures of.
Surie Garcia, age 13
About Me: My name is Surie Garcia. I’m an 8th grader at Florence Nightingale Middle School, born and raised here in Los Angeles. There are many things I love about this city, one of my favorites being the food, because there are so many different types of cultures and traditions, a unique thing to find in a place. I play volleyball in my free time, though I would much rather do track. I have three cats who have my heart, they are my world and I love to take pictures of them. For my Las Fotos Project journey, I am focusing on exploring and learning about the music in Boyle Heights. Because of the Mexican population, this is mainly Mariachi music. I hope this journey is fun and memorable!
Mariachis in Boyle Heights. 1st Street.
Mariachis have a huge impact on Boyle Heights and its people. Their presence has helped music thrive and be appreciated in this community. The artista’s beautiful voices can be heard throughout the entire neighborhood, both at fiestas and funerals. “Me gusta que puedo convivir con la gente, en diferentes etapas de sus vidas. Puede que sea una celebración o una pérdida de un querer.” -Santiago Cruz
Another String in the Community. First Street.
As the younger generation starts to get involved with older music, Sonidio de Valle wants to offer help. Sonidio de Valle is a record store in Boyle Heights, a safe place for all types of music. The change in audience has inspired the store to expand their efforts to grow awareness of community artists. To start, they want to provide their space as a go-to spot for anyone looking for support.
Sunset Tunes. Mariachi Plaza.
As the sun sets, a guy sits with his friends and plays his colorful guitar. His fingers softly brush against the strings, creating a lovely, gentle tune-- a tune which will make you picture a beach day or a rainbow. The man smiles as others quietly enjoy the melody. It seems this is a piece he has held onto for a long time. He continues to play, and I realize music is his happiness.
Boyle Heights' Theme Song
Do you ever think Boyle Heights has enough music in its community? How often do you hear the music of musicians in this neighborhood? If you haven’t noticed, the music here is hidden. As a Digital Promotora, I want the voices of the melodies and tunes to be heard. I am tired of witnessing the music stay in one singular place, it should spread around the community. As a photographer focusing on music, it has been a challenge to find in this area. Through my work, you will see the struggles, the happiness, and the impact which music brings to this spot.
Uzuri Ray, age 14
About Me: My name is Uzuri Ray. I am a Mexican-American 14-year-old. I was born in Los Angeles and have lived in Boyle Heights all my life. I am in 9th grade at Girls Academic Leadership Academy in Hancock Park. I like photography because I love having the opportunity to capture special moments. I love how pictures can tell stories, and I always try to take photos that have some kind of connection to me. My mother was the one who originally got me into photography as it had been a passion of hers. I've always found photography interesting, but never had a chance to fully experiment with a camera until I joined the Las Fotos Project.
Conversations. Lorena and Siskiyou St.
I took this photo when my mom and I were going to get churros. My mom struck up a conversation with Hilda Salinas, the lady in the photo, while waiting for the churros. They talked about how my grandparents were doing and then moved on to the rest of my family. Street vendors like Hilda, who can strike up a conversation with customers, are an important part of any community and always make spaces seem more like home.
Gather Around for a Midnight Snack. Lorena and Siskiyou St.
People gather around a favorite spot in Boyle Heights. The churro ladies on Lorena and Siskiyou bring together different people from throughout Boyle Heights, from new residents to residents with a sweet tooth who grew up visiting them. All the customers always enjoy the churros, the company, and the conversation. In this photo, the community seems to thrive around the churro ladies, showing how important street vendors are to building and maintaining communities.
Transition. Lorena and Siskiyou St.
During the day a fruit cart takes the churro cart’s place on the street selling fresh fruit, bionicos, and fresas con crema. In this photo, the vendors are transitioning from selling fruit to selling churros. They are putting away the materials used for the fruit cart, such as coolers, and loading them onto the truck. They are also setting up the churro cart and starting to make the fresh churros.
Eating History In Boyle Heights
My homeland is Boyle Heights. I have lived here all my life, and I’m very familiar with the area and community. An important part of any Los Angeles community are the street vendors. They spend hours every day walking around the streets of Boyle Heights selling flowers, churros, elotes, and much more. In this project, I focused on the churro ladies on Siskiyou and Lorena St., who have been selling churros for almost 33 years. The churro ladies consist of Hilda Salinas and her daughter, Maria. I chose these street vendors because they have a powerful story and are a huge part of the community. They have faced many run-ins with law enforcement before and after street vending was legalized. My photos and interviews show the struggles street vendors face and how communities still flourish around them.
Yulissa Gonzalez, age 16
About Me: Yulissa Gonzalez is a 16-year-old Mexican-American artist. Her home has always been the city of Los Angeles, where she was born and raised, and where her dreams aspire. She loves to read and garden, and commutes around LA on her bicycle or skateboard! Yulissa loves creating art and has embraced her artwork as her loudest voice; a voice for herself and for her community to change the obstructive ideologies that have been instilled into communities of color. Yulissa expresses her creativity through a variety of artistic mediums such as painting, digital art, screenprinting, sculpting, and, most recently, photography. She is determined to enhance her artistic skills at every opportunity she finds. Her work has been highlighted by many professional artists in Los Angeles, such graphic designers at Nike, stills curators at Netflix, and animators from the Discovery Channel!
My Local Farmer’s Market. Sunset Blvd & Logan St.
Latinos run the Echo Park Farmers Market. They turn seeds into rows and rows of produce and nurture the crops to become abundant fruits and vegetables for the community to obtain. Revisiting my old farmer's market through a lens allowed me to appreciate the local Angelenos who come together to share their crops as they continue to keep our community alive.
Home of the Vendors. Echo Park Lake.
“Home of the Vendors” highlights the current displacement of the people of color who reside in Echo Park. It illustrates LA street vendors repurposing the gate initially placed to evict unhoused people from Echo Park, and utilizing it to display their merchandise. This photograph represents the Latino community’s perseverance and constant adaptation to the commercial and rapidly changing area around us.
The Sunflower admiring the lady. Sunset Blvd and Echo Park Ave.
She is shining with resilience as she walks past me. The sunflowers seem to point at her as she passes them by. We are strangers who woke up this morning and both crossed the same intersection of Sunset Blvd. and Echo Park Ave. at the same exact time. I wonder what her story is, how similar we might be.
Latinos in Echo Park
“Latinos in Echo Park” highlights the Latino Community that resides in the neighborhood of Echo Park. Growing up here felt like home, the place where my favorite bakeries and local markets were, different from the rest of L.A. However, returning to my old neighborhood no longer felt homely, but more like an intrusion. Echo Park has endured a drastic process of gentrification and has transformed significantly since I last visited. “Latinos in Echo Park” highlights the resilient Angelenos who are proudly taking up space here today; our art, our culture, our street vendors, our community! I wanted to call attention to the brown voices of my community and preserve the Latino culture in Echo Park!