top of page

Building Art into a Building’s Purpose

When plans for either a new build or renovation are discussed there are obvious questions to answer — How big will it be? What’s the timeline? How much will it cost? Though maybe not the first question posed at a development meeting, one that carries as much (if not more) weight than the previous ones is simply — Who will this building inspire?


The buildings in which we live and work help form our identity and are a vital part of our daily lives. How, then, can developments transform from places that simply exist to sources of inspiration and connection?


Through art.


One shining example of this can be found in the Cesar Chavez Foundation (CCF) Housing & Economic Development Fund. Through this program, CCF aspires to be the catalyst that spurs investment in underserved communities and sets the bar for what can be achieved both individually and community-wide. Their developments inspire a sense of community and encourage people to serve others while also helping their own families prosper.


Beautify chatted with Paul Chavez, President of CCF, and son of the civil rights and farm labor leader, to learn more about the role art plays in living out their mission.

“When Cesar Chavez and the founders of the Farm Worker Movement began their work they understood that the arts would play a key role in informing, inspiring, and educating people. One of the things we’ve done with our housing program is look for ways to recognize people who have made important contributions. We started by naming our communities after people who should be remembered to both educate and uphold the legacy of folks.”


This powerful act inspired a push toward further recognizing change-makers by incorporating public art into the CCF housing program. It began with the project LA Plaza Village, where, in the early stages of development, artwork was discussed as an integral component of the build. From there a budget was established and a shortlist of artists, who could bring different points of view to the project, was created.


“L.A. has been a big part of the Farm Worker Movement in terms of support, but more than that the Latino community as a whole has tremendous ties to agriculture areas. In one of the LA Plaza murals, artist Barbara Carrasco depicted a march scene as well as the El Aliso tree. These images spanned generations yet bound people together to show the interconnectivity and history of Los Angeles with the Farm Worker Movement.”


Photo: Latinx Arts Alliance


In total, LA Plaza Village features four public-facing murals created by Judithe Hernandez, Miguel Angel Reyes, Jose Lozano, and Barbara Carrasco that each uniquely celebrate the Mexican-American experience and truly connect with the community.


What began as showcasing public art in one development is now an integral part of the mission for CCF’s housing program, as well as inside its own walls, too. The large-scale mural inside CCF, painted by artist John Park, draws attention from visitors who come to pose in front of it.

Photo: Cesar Chavez Foundation


“We would like to put images up that can help strengthen and become a hallmark of our community. We’ve been blessed with people and communities honoring my father, and now it’s our time to pay back and help tell the stories of the communities in which we’re doing affordable housing.”


In the summer of 2022, CCF celebrated the grand opening of Plaza Ortiz, an affordable housing community for veterans and low-income residents, in El Monte, CA. The property was named in honor of 19-year-old El Monte native Ysabel “Mac” Ortiz who was killed during the Korean War. On one prominent wall of the property a mural conceived by artist Ignacio Gomez and painted by artist John Park honors Ortiz and other community heroes.



Photo: Cesar Chavez Foundation


By integrating murals into their housing program the foundation that bears his name continues to honor Chavez’s vision of using art as a vehicle to inform, inspire, and educate the world.


Interesting in inspiring your community through art? Contact us to bring your vision to life.


136 comentários


reasonableaqua
4 days ago

This is such a great point about how buildings can inspire! It's easy to get caught up in the practicalities of development and forget the human element. The Cesar Chavez Foundation's approach is fantastic. It reminds me of how even in something seemingly simple, like playing a game like Funny Shooter 2 , there's an opportunity for connection and a little bit of escapism.


Curtir

Elowen Morrison
Elowen Morrison
06 de jun.

If you're considering the next chapter in your career, you may find yourself wondering when it's the right time to move into or in to a new role. Shifting into or in to a new career path is an exciting yet sometimes overwhelming experience, but with the right support, you can navigate it successfully. UNICCM provides expert coaching and practical strategies to help you manage this transition smoothly. Whether you're looking to move into or within a new position, their guidance will give you the confidence to take that first important step with clarity and purpose.


Curtir

hi fives
hi fives
31 de mai.

Benefits of using an employee recognition app are far-reaching. For employees, it improves morale, boosts confidence, and provides motivation.Employee Recognition App employers, it improves retention, enhances workplace culture, and increases productivity. Studies have shown that regular recognition significantly reduces turnover rates and improves employee satisfaction.


Curtir

 The portal offers 24/7 access, making it easy to stay in control of your finances from anywhere. Fortiva’s online platform is designed to be user-friendly and secure, ensuring your data remains protected. If you're a new user, https://fortiva.creditcardlogin.us.com/ you can also register your account through the site. Fortiva simplifies credit management with efficient online tools.

3/3

Curtir

Jack Smith
Jack Smith
29 de mai.

Haridwar is the largest and most populous city in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. It is renowned for its bustling marketplaces, historic landmarks, vibrant street food, and extensive cultural heritage. Are you searching for stunning, alluring Haridwar Call Girls for sex and enjoyment while you're in Haridwar or intend to visit? Then, for the most reliable and reasonably priced call girl service in Haridwar, use our top call girl agency. Starting at ₹4500, we offer the greatest models to ensure that the evening is unforgettable, along with a 75% discount on your first-ever reservation for call girls in Haridwar with home delivery. When you get in touch with us, we provide free home delivery within 20 minutes, and these are incredibly…


Curtir
bottom of page