Hello Lykkers! The recent wildfires in Los Angeles have left the local art community reeling, with artists in areas like Altadena and the Palisades facing the destruction of their workspaces and the threat to their livelihoods.

The fires, which began on January 7th, have ravaged over 40,000 acres of land, claimed more than two dozen lives, and displaced upwards of 180,000 people.

Los Angeles Fire

This crisis has touched every corner of the city, including its vibrant cultural hubs.

Artists and galleries in Los Angeles have come together in a remarkable show of support in the wake of these devastating fires.

Initiatives like Grief and Hope, led by Various Small Fires director Ariel Pittman and former David Kordansky Gallery director Julia V. Hendrickson, along with artists Kathryn Andrews, Andrea Bowers, and Olivia Gauthier, have raised significant funds to aid those affected.

Major arts institutions such as the J. Paul Getty Trust, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, MOCA Los Angeles, and the Hammer Museum have also stepped up, raising $12 million to support artists and art workers in the city.

The personal and communal impacts of the wildfires have been profound, prompting conversations among artists about the challenges and resilience of the city and its residents. Let's delve into the stories of a few artists who have been touched by the wildfires.

Jessica Taylor Bellamy:

Jessica, a long-time resident of Los Angeles, reflects on the city's unique light and the sense of community that emerges in times of both beauty and crisis. She highlights the need for ongoing support for artists and organizations in the aftermath of the fires.

Adam Alessi:

Adam has been running a donation drop-off for materials to help artists who lost their studios and homes in the fires. He emphasizes the importance of long-term support for rebuilding and is working to secure resources for artists in need.

Sayre Gomez:

Sayre shares his experience of evacuating with his family and the uncertainty that the wildfires have brought. Despite the challenges, he feels grateful for the safety of his loved ones and reflects on the impact of the fires on his art practice.

Jessie Homer French:

Jessie, in a letter to Artsy, shares her thoughts on navigating the Santa Ana winds and the heightened awareness of fire risk in the region. Her work speaks to the cyclical nature of disaster and resilience in the face of uncertainty.

Conclusion

As the Los Angeles art community comes together to support one another in the wake of these wildfires, there is a sense of resilience and camaraderie that shines through. Let's continue to stand by our fellow artists and neighbors as we navigate this challenging time together.

Stay safe and Lykkers, let's keep the spirit of creativity and community alive in Los Angeles!