Valley

This blog is dedicated to give a voice to the San Fernando Valley. And it shall be done through the arts and culture of our community. 

[thevalleythroughmylens]

Van Nuys Blvd

[thevalleythroughmylens]

Van Nuys

[thevalleythroughmylens]

It’s very rare to see an art show from the youth in our community. In this tiny little space on Van Nuys Blvd, Mathew got together a couple of his friends and created this collage of art. It was really sweet and nicely accompanied by a small set by Mathew.

[19284abc-deactivated20220114]

support the arts. go see a friend’s theatre production, buy a piece of artwork you love if you can afford it, tip a street musician who made you stop walking to admire their skills. the arts are so beautiful and under appreciated. please commemorate people for the hard work they show through artwork. as an artist, it’s so easy to become discouraged, so if you have an opportunity to support an artist, do your best to take it.

[thevalleythroughmylens]

The Woodman Walls

Growing up in the valley, I have always recognized the intersection of Woodman and Saticoy but not for the best of reasons. Nevertheless, thanks to the efforts of NoHo West and Council Member Paul Krekorian a grant has been given in order to improve, paint and beautify the area. A mural has already been put in place and has been called The Woodman Walls.

[thevalleythroughmylens]

Odyssey Video

North Hollywood

[thevalleythroughmylens]

Dona Marcella, a long time valley residents has created her own home into her canvas. After loosing her son to gang violence, she found peace in bringing some light to her world through bouquet making and collecting angels. She devotes her time making sure not one spot is covered in dust. Thank you so much for inviting me into your home and for sharing such an intimate moment of your life.

[thevalleythroughmylens]

Arts Day 2016

Watching Arts Of LA speak to the our City Council was such a great experience. It was another motivation to continue this journey.

[thevalleythroughmylens]

Valley residents lookout for the Filmmobile

The Filmmobile has recently made its way into Boyle Heights. A community mostly noted for it’s Mariachi Plaza and their current advocacy to fight gentrification.  We collaborated with Las Photos and offered a two day workshop that themed around empowering girls to use analog film as a way to assure their role in their community. We shared a film from a local artist, introduced Super 8 and taught them to process the film as well.The Filmmobile will soon be making its way to the valley this summer, so keep a look out for more info!  

Las Photos:

http://lasfotosproject.org/

Film shared:

Mis  Manos by Walter Vargas

https://vimeo.com/64771639

[thevalleythroughmylens]

The L&S Carpet has been in the valley for decades!

[thevalleythroughmylens]

North Hollywood Red Line

[thevalleythroughmylens]

NoHo West

During the month of April I finally decided to speak to my neighborhood council.  It was a bit nerve wrecking but I was not going to let that get to me. As is turned out, everyone was very welcoming and once I was done with my speech it was nice to hear so much positive feedback. Everyone understood the value of arts and culture and welcomed me to join them in this effort.Now there is so much to look forward too. I met with our district Assemblywomen Patty Lopez, who has offered her help and I am excited for our future collaboration. This summer I will be helping out with the Summer Movie Series. Films will be screened all through North Hollywood and The Echo Park Film mobile will be having a workshop! This will be great way to keep those kids busy during the summer break.

Mark those calendars!

http://nohowest.org/2016/04/12/nohowest-supports-film-festiva

[thevalleythroughmylens]

The Valley Plaza Annual Egg Hunt

[thevalleythroughmylens]

The Wat Thai Temple, a very well known relic of the valley located on Coldwater Canyon. Everyone is always very welcoming and you will immediately feel at peace when you step inside the temple.The Wat Thai Temple also host all kinds of family events. They are mostly recognized by there Saturday morning’s food market. Did you also know they host the NoHoWest Neighborhood Council Meeting? If you you live in the area I highly suggest you attend the meeting. It is always important to know what is happening around you, or if you have any suggestions the board is there to listen! Plus, you get a taste of our Thai communities culture.

Wat Thai Temple:

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Wat-Thai-Of-Los-Angeles/272164616137772

NoHoWest Neighborhood Council:

http://nohowest.org/

[thevalleythroughmylens]

Van Nuys

[thevalleythroughmylens]

Here we are on Laurel Canyon and Vanowen. You will find your usual Liquor, Gas Station, and 7/11. You will also find a local family market called La Flor De Michoacan. They offer great service, authentic Mexican food, as well as all your usual market needs. Support your local business and get yourself some carnitas!

[thevalleythroughmylens]

He was very curious about my camera. I let him examined it and he was so excited and asked his mother if he can have his own someday. I am sure he will! Where ever they may be in the valley, I wish them the best.