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Community Corner

Community Update

BRAND NEW WALL AT VISTA DEL MAR CHILD & FAMILY SERVICES
Celebrates the Merger of Art & Heart

Just beyond the welcoming gates to Vista Del Mar's 108 year old West Los Angeles campus, a nationally renowned center devoted to diverse and comprehensive programs and services for children of all circumstance and ability, there is a playful new mural reflecting an innovative partnership between VDM, Branded Arts and the West L.A. community focused on optimizing the lives of Vista's young residents.

An idea cultivated and brought to fruition by Vista's thriving Young Leadership Council, which includes Zach Zalben, David Konheim, Gabe Hirsch, Michael Pollier and passionate arts aficionado and entrepreneur, Warren Brand, the March 29th day long collaborative event was inspired by the exceptional design of acclaimed street artist Buff Monster.

On site for the celebration were Vista Del Mar's skilled staff under the new leadership of Dr. Louis Josephson and Craig Prizant, Vista’s talented students and residents, West side community members and volunteers and gifted D.J., Tolks. Warren Brand, founder of Branded Arts believes deeply in the import and impact of arts education and to his mission of making it available to everyone. He felt this unique opportunity to gather with those of like mind and heart was an ideal one in which to incorporate artist Buff Monster, who came to the public's attention after locating thousands of hand silk screened posters across Los Angeles.

His work features happy characters living in brightly colored landscapes predominated by rich and wonderful tones of bright pink. The artist feels that pink is a symbol of confidence,individuality, happiness and a thriving spirit; as such, it fits perfectly both on the flourishing campus of Vista Del Mar as well as on the pages of The York Times, LA Times, LA Weekly, and other publications that have included his work.
Vista's Young Leadership and Branded Arts worked passionately to ensure that this purpose driven project was one of joy in both process and results, recognizing the healing, positive and transformative power of art and community collaboration.

Vista’s exceptional young residents celebrated this peaceful and positive project and their ability to be part of creating a fresh new piece of Vista history.The next time you drive by Vista Del Mar’s gates on Motor Avenue, consider slowing down just a bit to experience this evocative mural and to remain mindful about how each of member of the Westside community can make and difference in the lives of others through good works, positive actions and generosity of spirit.

For additional information on the new projects and programs of Vista Del Mar Child and Family Services, please see: VISTADELMAR.ORG.

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