Incubadora de Artistas plays a pivotal role in the story that unfolds around Celia. Her live-work space for young artists is founded as a sanctuary for them to develop their skills, pursue their passions, and receive the support they need. She finds the same sanctuary there herself.
“The ground floor had the exposed brick walls she loved, towering ceilings, concrete floors, and huge windows on the walls facing the street. It could easily be turned into a space for artists to create with a small gallery space near the front. Celia could see, as though they were already there, the artists working in the front half of the space, bathed in the light from the windows. Passersby could see them working, be intrigued, and come inside.”
A three-story brick warehouse with high ceilings and concrete floors, Incubadora is situated in the culturally-rich Boyle Heights neighborhood of Los Angeles. The first floor is a vibrant open space, with large windows that allow natural light to illuminate the easels and art supplies within. Residents’ work is showcased in a small sales gallery at the front, and busy classrooms line the back. The second floor serves as the residential area for the artists, with dormer beds, bathrooms, a spacious communal kitchen and living area, and administrative offices for Celia and Dolores. The third floor is Celia’s own loft home, where warm lighting and colorful furniture create a new cozy atmosphere.
To Celia, Incubadora is more than just a passion project; it represents a lifeline, a way to avoid the despair that her father succumbed to. After trying for years to express herself and find purpose, she realizes she won’t find the right medium to tell her story. On the verge of surrender, she opens up to her friends (after some needed coaching from León) and the idea of Incubadora hits her—a place where she can support young artists with her organizational skills, determination, and ‘unearned’ Bitcoin proceeds.
For Celia, Incubadora represents the healing power of giving and receiving support and the diverse ways in which people can express themselves beyond creating art. It is a way to build a creative community, make a difference in the lives of others, and find meaning and purpose in her own life. Through Incubadora, she creates a nurturing environment for young artists, allowing them to thrive, find their voice, and share their stories with the world.
Incubadora is not only a beautiful and inspiring space but also a symbol of the support we all need. The young artists living there come from various backgrounds, contributing to a rich and diverse community. They collaborate, learn from one another, and grow as artists. Incubadora offers facilities such as supplies, equipment, space, mentorship, and mostly importantly, time.
Incubadora carries on the legacy of creativity and community involvement that Boyle Heights is known for. I took my first-ever trip to Los Angeles just to drive around Boyle Heights for a few days, needing to capture the neighborhood authentically in the brief mentions I dared to make of it. If you’re contemplating a trip of your own, let me recommend the tireless Shmuel Gonzales (שמואל גונזלס) and his Boyle Heights History Studios and Tours. This book would have been much more generic if not for him.
Painting Celia is the first book set in the Incubadora universe. Who knows what passionate quirky artists will make it their home? I anticipate quite a few turbulent romances!
