Ted Watkins Park - Watts Community Poster Project
Through a project supported by LA Commons, an LA vs Hate partner that helps diverse, generally low-income neighborhoods create dynamic works of public art that build community connection and empowerment, a group of young artists created LA vs Hate posters that expressed strong sentiments around immigration and transgender issues.
This project was a result of weeks of open and emotional dialogue where these young artists felt safe enough with each other to share their personal stories along with those of their loved ones. Inspired by the stories they heard and the love and strength that they felt for each other, these artists decided to express themselves through comic-style poster designs with an emphasis on immigrant and transgender issues, two topics that repeatedly came up during their conversations.
These posters feature artwork that takes place in a Los Angeles setting with the signature skyline and renowned cotton candy sunset in the background. It was agreed upon that sunflowers would be the common theme amongst all the designs as a symbol for hope in difficult times and that the trans color palette would be used across all 3 designs considering it is an issue that can intersect with all topics.
One Call Away Poster
This first design highlights the 211 hotline, giving viewers a call to action for whenever they find themselves in a moment they feel they could be of further assistance to a situation. The youth expressed interest and reassurance that something like this was made accessible to the public. A big topic of discussion was wanting to cultivate the courage and knowledge in how they could have more agency in spreading love and support to others in their community.
See Me Poster
The second design highlights trans issues, taking the viewers into what a moment in a trans person’s day might feel like for them. Although we are in the diverse melting pot that is Los Angeles, many are still exploring how to understand the complexities of these issues.
Safe Ride Home Poster
The final design addresses immigration issues in an everyday setting - people on the way to their destination while living their own unique experience, making them no different from anyone else in the community. However, they face a level of insecurity throughout their day knowing everything they've worked to build could be taken from them at any given moment.
The posters are shared with the community via printed versions and digitally. We anticipate that this artwork will make people want to stop, take a closer look and immerse themselves into the deeper message being portrayed. Click here to download and print at home.
