Help me complete the buildout for concept space..

My name is Lorenzo Diggins Jr. and I'm a visual artist (photography & illustration), creative director, and art book publisher based out of South Central Los Angeles. I’m either in pursuit of bringing my creative ideas to life or helping others actualize theirs. As a visual communicator, I am committed to using my work not only to tell the stories of my subjects but also to serve as an invitation for viewers to reflect and share their own stories. The common thread weaved throughout my work is a deep value in fostering connection among people. Simply put, I love using my work as a tool to create connection and community.

In addition to operating my design studio & art book publishing company, colour bloc creativ, I run a print publication called “Find Peace. Keep Peace.” (aka FPKP Journal) which is an exploration of inner peace through an artistic lens, and is currently being distributed nationwide.

Within this last year, I secured a 1,100 sq. ft brick-and-mortar space in my local South Central Los Angeles community. Aside from being the headquarters for my design studio and flagship location for all things regarding the publication, this space is also intended to be a hub for community building and wellness which will include art and educational programming, specifically for underserved youth, emerging artists, and creatives.

The space will not be limited to only selling our in-house zines/books, publications, artwork, apparel, accessories, and home goods - It will also offer goods from other BIPOC artists, artisans, and designers nationwide. With this in mind, half of the space will be utilized and activated as an art gallery to exhibit works from local and emerging artists and creatives.

Aside from curating a cool and aesthetically pleasing destination to experience art, design, culture, community, and commerce - my true goal and vision for the physical space are to create an environment where people not only feel seen and encouraged to show up as their true selves but also serves as a resource center that provides unique creative learning opportunities for youth and the local community.

So far, the renovations for this space have been fully self-financed. As the launch date (September 2023) quickly approaches and the expenses continue to become a reality, I recognize the need for financial support, especially while I’m in the very final phase of the buildout. In full transparency, throughout my entrepreneurial journey, I’ve been reluctant to ask for help due to my deep fear of disappointment. Because this project is essentially bigger than me, I’m challenging myself to put my pride aside and face my fear of asking for help.

So here I am coming to you all for help in raising the $25,000 I need to complete the final phase of the buildout for my new community gallery and concept space which includes:

Lastly, I totally understand if you are unable to contribute monetarily, another great way to show support is through helping me spread the word – please consider sharing this campaign with your loved ones. A sincere thank you in advance for seeing me and supporting my vision – your contributions will certainly help me bring this dream to fruition.

With gratitude,

Lorenzo Diggins Jr.

*BONUS* Please enjoy a few 3D renderings of the future space in all its glory.

A special thank you to my good friend and collaborator Emiliano Styles for helping me create my campaign video – I appreciate you bro for your continuous support!

A special thank you to the ever-so-talented Jonathan Sharp and Christopher Locke of Designing in Color for helping me bring my vision for the space to life with the beautiful 3D renderings – I appreciate you both for your commitment to seeing this project through!

Last but certainly not least, a special thank you to my good friend and collaborator Krystyl Wright of LOT XI for not only encouraging me to move forward with creating this GFM campaign; without you gently holding me accountable, and taking the time to help me write the initial copy – I'm not sure I would've even done this.