A powerful new piece of public art is transforming South Los Angeles — not just as a landmark but as a living space for community, culture and remembrance.
The massive sculpted figures along with towering pillars and echoing Egyptian monuments were created by Lauren Halsey, an artist born in South LA’s Gramercy Park.
Halsey said the monuments are dedicated to the people in the neighborhood.
Her creation is on display in an outdoor sculpture park called Sister Dreamer, which honors Halsey’s local heroes, neighbors and family. One artwork even features the face of her mother.
“So many of our genius gets overlooked, in my opinion, gets devalued, don’t get their flowers,” Halsey said.
Alongside blooming flowers and native plants and water fountains, Halsey literally has put the people on pedestals.
“That’s Robin, one of the founders of the Sisters of Watts,” Halsey while discussing the creation dedicated to the grassroots community nonprofit.
Kara Gomez, who has lived in the neighborhood for more than seven decades, said the sculptures not only capture what she remembers but gives her hope for the future.
“It’s beautiful. It’s really amazing. It’s history,” Gomez said. “This, I think, it a lot of people come and see it will give them pride on what we have accomplished and what we can accomplish.”
The park will also host live events for the neighborhood with a focus on youth. In fact, the community will be trying to break the world record for the longest soul train dance line on Juneteenth this year.
Everyone is invited, Halsey said.