Culver City Observer -

Congressman Jimmy Gomez (CA-34) will hold a press conference announcing $1.5 million in federal funding he secured for Self Help Graphics & Art (SHG), nonprofit organization that fosters the creation and advancement of new art works by Chicana/o and Latine artists through experimental and innovative printmaking techniques and other visual art forms.

This $1.5 million in federal funding will be used to repair and retrofit SHG's 112-year-old building and property for use as a cultural center, to meet the community's needs more safely, and fully activate its outdoor spaces for community programs.

Congressman Gomez will be joined by Betty Avila, Executive Director at SHG, Endy Bernal, Board Chair at SHG, Josiah O'Balles, former Youth Artivism Intern and SHG Youth Committee member, and Ofelia and Rosanna Esparza, Legacy Artists.

Ofelia Esparza has been called "L.A.'s most admired altar maker" and is highly recognized for her Día de Muertos ofrendas that have been showcased both nationally and internationally. Most recently, she served as a cultural advisor for the 2017 Pixar movie, Coco. In 2018, Ofelia Esparza was honored as a National Heritage Fellow by the National Endowment of the Arts. Ofelia's daughter, Rosanna, is a Chicana graphic artist and altarista.

Press Conference Announcing $1.5 Million in Federal Funding to Restore Historic Arts & Cultural Center

Wednesday, March 15th

Media Set-Up at 9:30 a.m. PT

Program Begins at 10:00 a.m. PT

Congressman Jimmy Gomez (CA-34)

Betty Avila, Executive Director at Self Help Graphics & Art

Endy Bernal, Board Chair at Self Help Graphics & Art

Ofelia Esparza and Rosanna Esparza, Legacy Artists (mother/daughter)

Josiah O'Balles, Youth Artist

Self Help Graphics & Art

1300 EAST 1ST STREET

LOS ANGELES, CA, 90033

RSVP: RSVP is required. Please send your name, outlet, email, and phone number to katy.nystrom@mail.house.gov.

NOTE: Media must be set up by 10:00 a.m. PT