Los Angeles Welcomes Portraits of Community

Hepp, Joy M

Yolanda Gonzalez -- a celebrated Chicana painter, art educator and punk rocker at heart -- was invited to be the inaugural artist for AARP in Los Angeles’s “Portraits of Community” project, an initiative that was inspired by a series of conversations held with residents of Los Angeles throughout 2015. The culmination of the first phase of this project will see Gonzalez’ artworks featured on three Metro buses, a Metro Gold Line train and Metro bus shelters around the city. (Additional artists from diverse communities around Los Angeles will debut distinct “Portraits of Community” artworks throughout 2016.)

Throughout 2015, AARP staff installed listening posts -- large writing surfaces stocked with markers and pens -- throughout the city. The following question was posed on each of the posts: “What would make L.A. an even better place to live?” Community members at outdoor concerts, cultural celebrations and gatherings weighed in and their responses ranged from affordable housing, to social meet-ups, community gardens and much more.

The outpouring of creative, heartfelt and practical suggestions not only informed the AARP in Los Angeles team, but over time the contributions began to form their own composition. Gonzalez will be proud to see her creations moving throughout the city, but she says her true reward will come if she can inspire her peers to follow their passions.

“I don’t think it’s ever too late,” Gonzalez says. “If it’s in your soul or in your heart, whatever you do is going to be magical.”

AARP in Los Angeles is committed to Living, Growing and Connecting – Locally. That’s why we’re thrilled to be adding some color to your daily commute.