Latitude For Art

Dear Friend,

The non-profit Latitude for Art, originally formed in part to support a successful artist residency in Iceland, closed after the lease ended. Now based in Los Angeles, Latitude For Art has the opportunity to take ownership of a building in the heart of Echo Park.

What’s stopping us? Money of course.

Isa-Kae Meksin, a community activist and 50 year owner of the apartments known as Laguna Castle has gifted her building to Latitude For Art. Isa-Kae passed in June 2022 leaving her estate in trust to Martin Cox with instructions to transfer it to Latitude For Art. Early in 2024 the building was hit with substantially increased back property taxes.

Latitude For Art is seeking donations to cover these bills in order to receive the building.

The community of artists and activists, that Isa initiated back in the 70s, is now threatened by this situation. This community space has a legacy of creativity and community spirit in Echo Park. Latitude for Art will continue the property as haven for artists and seniors to coexist, thrive, and inspire one another, and open it up to a wider community for events, gatherings, art residencies and meetings.

Today we face a critical challenge. The burden of the property re-assessment tax bills totals $75,000 and may destabilize the plans and the lives of the residents. Once paid the non-profit will take possession of the property as Isa wanted.

As President of Latitude for Art and a close friend of Isa for many years, and also a resident at Laguna Castle, I am reaching out to you, our extended community for support.

Every donation, no matter how small, brings Latitude for Art one step closer to our goal of boosting a thriving hub of creativity and camaraderie. Donations are tax deductible.

With gratitude,

Martin Cox, President Latitude for Art

Latitude for Art's mission is to develop creative communities in urban and rural settings with artist residencies and long-term housing for artists and seniors. It is a 501(c)(3) California nonprofit corporation.