Support Black Artist Housing Residency South LA

Greetings,

My name is Shalandrea Houchen. I am a Los Angeles native, Teacher, Artist and director of What’s Ya Vibe? Arts Organization.

This is WYV’s 5th year anniversary and we are so excited to present: What’s Ya Home?

Homelessness was officially declared a state of emergency in 2023 yet has been relevant for so many years and years before.

For myself, my mother was homeless half of my life in South LA. She was hit by a car pushing her kart across the street in DTLA, 2017. I recently lost another loved one by the same tragedy.

Do you hear the sound of the alarm? People are choosing daily between food for their children or gas for their car. The livable wages have not permitted many to live. For many others, generations of homelessness have plagued families causing years of trauma.

This trauma I have made a life mission to rid myself of. Through my practice in art therapy I have held over 250 events in South LA, NYC and Utah. At the end of each event at least one person walks up to me in tears declaring the joy and the release of depression they have experienced. I now know this is not by chance, for years I have been practicing art therapy and I would love to offer this to my community with a collective of artists.

You may ask, how can this house help folx?

Housing is a basic human need. You may not know your colleagues that sleeps in their car, but they do. Their back tells them daily. Being homeless is not merely physical, it is also emotional. The feeling of not having a space you know you are safe affects your psyche, body and spirit. It takes a warrior to overcome homelessness, and how are we to ask that of anyone? Is it not enough to work, live and provide for yourself and family?

We now overlook our local homeless community member on the street corner without the thought of where did his turning point happen? Your home is your root. What was that persons turning point?

What’s Ya Home?

What's Ya Home? Proposal

Overview

What's Ya Home? is a unique residency program designed to provide Black artists with a safe, supportive living environment that fosters creativity, wellness, and community engagement. The initiative begins with securing land for a home or leasing a home, with plans to expand to a larger building that offers comprehensive facilities and housing for artists for Black of South Los Angeles.

Vision

- Zero Cost to Artists: The residency will be funded by community donations, grants, and sponsorships, ensuring no financial burden on the artists.

- Holistic Living and Creating: The home will feature personal bedrooms, bathrooms, meditative spaces, creative spaces, outdoor spaces and a shared kitchen. It will also serve as a rotating gallery for resident artists' work.

- Community Support: A fundraising goal of $1.2 million over four years will cover housing, programming, and operational costs.

Objectives

- Provide Stable Housing: Offer safe, supportive housing for Black artists.

- Promote Wellness: Ensure residents have access to wellness spaces and personal meditative areas.

- Foster Creativity: Create an environment where artists can thrive and contribute to the community's cultural landscape.

- Community Engagement: Involve artists in regular community events and initiatives.

Proposed Features

1. Residency Home:

- Bedrooms: 4 personal bedrooms.

- Bathrooms: 4 personal bathrooms.

- Shared Kitchen: Communal kitchen facilities.

- Wellness Space: Areas for meditation and relaxation.

- Art Studio: In-house studio for creative work.

- Outdoor Access: Rooftop or backyard for outdoor activities.

- Living room and Den.

2. Programming and Events:

- Monthly Food Drive:Artists cook together to support the community.

- Community Events: Monthly events at the Crenshaw Farmers Market, inviting the community to engage in art.

- Annual Community Mural:A mural project donated annually to a local Crenshaw business.

- School Visits: Artists volunteer at least six times a year in local schools.

- Financial Wellness Meetings: Monthly individual financial advisory sessions in partnership with US Bank.

- Weekly Community Meetings: Artists discuss community needs and project planning.

- Exclusive and Donation-Based Workshops: Weekly workshops, some exclusive and some donation-based, to engage the community and provide additional revenue.

3. Self-Sustaining Initiatives:

- Farmer's Market: A garden provides produce for a market.

- Café: An on-site café run by the artists, offering community interaction and generating income.

- Merch Shop and Apothecary: Selling art supplies, merchandise, and wellness products crafted by the artists.

- Volunteer Support: Utilize volunteers for various roles, reducing labor costs and increasing community involvement.

- Event Hosting: Generate funds through on-site events such as exhibitions, performances, and community gatherings.

- Studio Rentals: Rent out studio spaces (music, film, print) to generate additional revenue.

4. Artist Residency Details

- Application Terms: Artists can apply for residency from 1 to 12 months.

- Participation Commitment: A commitment of 20 hours monthly in What's Ya Home programming, averaging 4 hours per week.

- Co-Creation Opportunities: Artists are encouraged to lead workshops and participate in other program categories.

5. Creative Hub Facilities:

- Music Studio: Equipped for recording and producing music.

- Film Studio: Facilities for video production and editing.

- Print Studio: Includes a screen press, print press, and embroidery machine.

- Pottery Studio: Equipped with a kiln and oven for pottery work.

- Sewing Studio: Complete with sewing machines for textile projects.

- Art Supplies: Comprehensive supplies for painting and drawing.

- Podcast Studio: Room equipped for podcast recording.

- Dance Studio: Space for dance practice and classes.

Scaling and Growth

- Brand Awareness and Merch Shop Expansion: As the program gains recognition, the merch shop's offerings will expand, contributing to increased revenue.

- Café Profitability: The café, with its minimal labor costs and artistic atmosphere, will provide a strong profit margin.

- Farmers Market & Apothecary: The on-site farmers market and art supplies store will enhance the space's appeal and utility, with plans to accept EBT, making it accessible to a broader community.

- Event Revenue: On-site events will generate funds through ticket sales, donations, and sponsorships.

- Studio Rentals: Renting out the music, film, and print studios will provide steady revenue streams.

- Non-Profit Status: Utilizing volunteers and non-profit status will minimize labor costs and attract community support.

Benefits of Artist Housing

1. Fostering Creativity and Innovation

Stable Environment: Housing stability allows artists to focus on their craft without the stress of financial insecurity or housing instability. This stable environment can lead to increased creativity and productivity, as artists are able to dedicate more time and energy to their work.

Dedicated Space: Artists often need dedicated space for their work, whether it’s a studio, workshop, or performance space. Housing that incorporates or is adjacent to creative spaces supports the development of new projects and collaborations.

2. Enhancing Cultural Vibrancy

Cultural Hubs: When artists are housed in specific areas or buildings, these spaces can become cultural hubs. This not only enriches the local culture but also attracts visitors and tourists, enhancing the city's reputation as a vibrant artistic center.

Community Engagement: Artist housing projects often include community outreach and educational programs. These initiatives engage residents and visitors, fostering a deeper connection to the arts and creating a more culturally aware community.

3. Economic Impact

Local Economy Boost: Artists contribute to the local economy through their work and related activities. Housing artists can stimulate local businesses, such as galleries, cafes, and theaters, which benefit from increased foot traffic and engagement.

Job Creation: Housing projects for artists can create jobs in construction, maintenance, and management, contributing to the local economy beyond the immediate benefits to artists.

Case Study: Los Angeles

In Los Angeles, several initiatives and projects have successfully provided housing for artists, leading to positive outcomes:

1. Arts District Projects

Arts District Housing: The Arts District in downtown Los Angeles has been a focal point for artist housing. Projects like the Artist Lofts offer affordable living spaces combined with studio spaces. These developments create a supportive environment for artists, enabling them to live and work in the same location. The presence of artists has helped transform the district into a dynamic cultural enclave, attracting more creative professionals and cultural businesses.

2. The Mural Program and Cultural Districts

Cultural Impact: Housing initiatives that support artists often include components that promote public art, such as murals and installations. For example, in areas like the Historic Core, where artist housing projects are integrated with public art initiatives, the visual landscape of the city is enriched. This contributes to Los Angeles' reputation as a hub of creativity and artistic expression.

3. Affordable Artist Housing

Programs and Grants: Various city and non-profit programs in Los Angeles provide grants and incentives for the development of affordable housing for artists. These programs often target low-income artists who might otherwise be pushed out of the city due to high living costs. By offering affordable housing, these initiatives ensure that artists from diverse backgrounds can contribute to the city’s cultural landscape.

4. The Impact on Local Communities

Neighborhood Revitalization: Artist housing projects can revitalize neighborhoods, making them more attractive and vibrant. This revitalization often includes improvements in local infrastructure and services, which benefit all residents, not just artists.

Educational and Cultural Opportunities: Many artist housing projects include educational programs, workshops, and events that are open to the public. This fosters a greater appreciation for the arts within the community and provides opportunities for local residents to engage with creative practices.

Moving Forward

For Los Angeles, continuing to support and expand housing initiatives for artists can lead to several positive outcomes:

Sustained Artistic Communities: Ensuring that artists have access to affordable housing helps maintain a thriving artistic community, which is essential for the city's cultural and economic vitality.

Cultural Enrichment: As artists thrive in stable and supportive environments, they contribute to the city’s cultural richness, creating a dynamic and innovative atmosphere that benefits residents and visitors alike.

Strategic Development: Integrating artist housing into broader urban development plans ensures that cultural considerations are part of the city’s growth strategy, leading to a more balanced and inclusive urban landscape.

Historical Context

1. Reagan Era Policies

The modern homelessness crisis in Los Angeles can be partly traced back to the Reagan administration in the 1980s. During this period, significant cuts were made to federal funding for mental health services and affordable housing programs. The closing of state psychiatric hospitals, under the belief that community-based care would be more effective, resulted in a large number of individuals with mental illnesses being discharged without adequate support systems. This policy shift contributed to a surge in homelessness, as many of these individuals ended up on the streets or in inadequate conditions.

2. Housing Affordability Crisis

Simultaneously, Los Angeles experienced a boom in real estate development and gentrification, which led to rising property values and rents. The increased cost of living, combined with a lack of affordable housing development, made it difficult for low-income individuals and families to find stable housing. The economic pressures pushed many more people into homelessness, exacerbating the crisis.

Generational Impact

1. Impact on Families

For generations, the lack of affordable housing and adequate mental health services has had a cascading effect. Families facing financial hardship have often been pushed into homelessness, and their children grow up in unstable environments, which affects their education, health, and future prospects. The cycle of poverty and homelessness becomes entrenched, making it increasingly difficult for subsequent generations to break free.

2. Social and Economic Consequences

The long-term effects of homelessness are visible in many aspects of Los Angeles life. Schools, healthcare systems, and emergency services are all stretched thin by the high numbers of homeless individuals. The economic costs are significant, not only due to the direct expenses of emergency services and healthcare but also due to lost productivity and the social challenges that arise from widespread homelessness.

Long-term Vision

- Expansion of Prototype: After 2-3 years of successful operation and research, replicate the prototype in other locations to extend the impact and reach.

- 5-Year Goal: Establish multiple homes, providing broader support and fostering a thriving artistic community.

Funding and Support

- Initial Funding: Target $1.2 million for the first three years.

- Monthly Cost Management: Keep housing costs under $5,000 monthly.

- Sustainable Income Streams: Develop the café, farmers market, and merch shop as steady revenue sources.

- Community Involvement: Encourage regular donations and support from the community.

Why What's Ya Home?

What's Ya Home? stands out by integrating artists into the community, offering financial and creative support, and fostering a supportive environment for artistic growth. The program aims to create a sustainable, thriving space that benefits both the artists and the community.

Call to Action

Join us in creating a nurturing and inspiring environment for Black artists. Your support through donations, partnerships, or volunteer efforts will help us bring joy, creativity, and wellness to our community. Consider donating, sharing our mission, and becoming a part of the What's Ya Home movement.

Let's work together to build a home where artists can thrive and make a lasting impact.

What's Ya Home Application

What's Ya Home Residency Application

Application Process:

1. Initial Application Submission: Candidates must submit an application detailing their experience, creative vision, and goals.

2. Portfolio Submission: Applicants must provide images or documentation of their work, showcasing at least five years of artistic practice.

3. Two Online Interviews: These interviews focus on understanding the applicant's creative goals, community involvement, and personal background.

4. Two In-Person Interviews: Conducted through community work, these interviews evaluate the applicant's engagement and commitment.

5. Background Check and Drug Test: Note that marijuana is not included in the drug test.

Residency Application Questions:

1. Have you ever lived with people you just met before?

_This question explores your experience with communal living and adaptability._

2. What are your astrology chart's top 3 (sun, moon, rising) and communication placements?**

_This question helps us understand your personality traits and communication style._

3. Do you have an AM/PM routine? If so, please describe it.

_This question gives insight into your daily habits, discipline, and time management._

4. What does your ideal creative space look like?

_Describe the environment that best supports your creative process._

5. What is the most captivating work you've seen to date?

_Share a work of art that has significantly influenced or inspired you._

6. Please describe your dietary restrictions, if any.

_This helps us accommodate your dietary needs._

7. Provide a brief overview of your artistic journey and major themes in your work.

_Share your artistic background and the concepts you explore in your work._

8. What are your goals for this residency?

_Outline what you hope to achieve during your time at What's Ya Home._

9. How do you see yourself contributing to the What's Ya Home community?

_Describe how you can engage with and contribute to our community._

10. Please include a portfolio or images of your recent work.

_Showcase your artistic achievements and current projects._

These questions are designed to gather a comprehensive understanding of the applicant's background, creative process, and how they will integrate into the community at What's Ya Home. The responses will help us select artists who align with the residency's vision and can benefit from and contribute to the program.

What's Ya Home Residency: Application Process

Application Process:

1. Initial Application Submission: Candidates submit an application detailing their interest and qualifications.

2. Two Online Interviews: These interviews focus on understanding the applicant's creative goals, community involvement, and personal background.

3. Two In-Person Interviews: These are conducted through community work, allowing applicants to demonstrate their commitment and engagement.

4. Background Check and Drug Test: Note that marijuana is not included in the drug test.

Application Questions:

1. Have you ever lived with people you just met before?

_This question assesses the applicant's adaptability and experience with communal living._

2. What is your astrology chart's top 3 (sun, moon, rising) and communication placements?**

_This question helps understand the applicant's personality traits and communication style._

3. Do you have an AM/PM routine? If so, please describe it.

_This question explores the applicant's daily habits and time management skills._

4. What does your ideal creative space look like?

_This question allows the applicant to express their vision for a conducive creative environment._

5. What is the most captivating work you've seen to date?

_This question aims to understand the applicant's artistic influences and inspirations._

Feel free to add or modify questions to better suit the specific goals and values of the residency program.

In loving memory of my mama, Yolanda “Yoly” Renee Thomas

For any further questions please email me at [email redacted]

@whats.ya.vibe

wyvibe.org