How Does Art Connect L.A.?

Co-presented by Metro Art, Zócalo Public Square, and Grand Performances
Moderated by Moira Shourie, Executive Director, Zócalo Public Square

Arts and culture built Los Angeles, this hub for the journeying, creative spirit. Great art connects Angelenos to each other. We roar with laughter at comedians, thrill at a poetic turn of phrase, and shed a tear when our favorite restaurant closes down. When L.A.’s people and values come under attack, we turn to culture to stay strong.

Angelenos find power in murals, mariachis, and mouth-watering cuisine served up by street vendors—a fiery fusion of forms that makes us who we are. And yet, while music, comedy, art, and food bind us together, punchlines and platforms can also push us into camps, reflecting bitter culture wars unfolding across the country.

How does art connect, and when does it divide like a knife? Can art be the secret to keeping the soul of a city alive, even in the most challenging times? Where do we find inspiration and connection in a town where so many cultural, artistic, and social forces collide?

Zócalo invites “art rap” rapper and comedian Open Mike Eagle, improviser and Dynasty Typewriter co-founder Vanessa Ragland, Da Poetry Lounge Co. president Jasmine Williams, and comedian, actress, and writer Sasheer Zamata to Union Station to discuss how art helps Angelenos feel connected today.

This event is part of LAte Night Train of Thought, featuring improv performances presented by Dynasty Typewriter, with performers Eugene Cordero, Colton Dunn, Lauren Lapkus, Ify Nwadiwe, Gil Ozeri, and Sasheer Zamata. Spoken word interludes will be performed by Nate Lovell and RAVINA from Da Poetry Lounge, followed by a closing musical set by “art rap” artist Open Mike Eagle.

Guests can also enjoy complimentary sweets from Little Tokyo’s iconic Fugetsu-Do Confectionery (while supplies last) and bites available for purchase from the Kogi BBQ food truck.

This program is part of California 175: What Connects California? — a suite of free Zócalo events and essays that bring together leaders and thinkers from all walks of life to envision California’s next 175 years.

Partners: Metro Art, Zócalo Public Square, and Grand Performances.

https://www.zocalopublicsquare.org/how-does-art-connect-l-a/