Digital Promotoras
Signs of Life
Everything we experience—our heritage, the city we live in, and the work we pursue—is carried with us and expressed in how we show up in the world. These artworks celebrate visibility, pride, and resistance. Through photography, our artists reflect on the personal and collective forces that shape their identities, asserting their right to be seen, heard, and remembered.
Digital Promotoras: Signs of Life examines the signs, symbols, and architecture of everyday environments, revealing how place shapes identity. This exhibition weaves together a narrative of cultural memory, self-definition, and the power of claiming one’s own story.
TEACHING ARTISTS: Juli Perez and Rebeca Castillo
TEACHING ARTIST ASSISTANT: Yahaira S. Guerrero
MENTORS:Ana Chavez, Ashley Paez, Brandon Tauszik, Cielo Mansilla , Daniela Lara, Jasmin Wolff, Jennifer Espinoza, Juliana Hernandez, Leah Hubbard, Mia Pena, Michelle Montenegro, Sonia Sanchez, and Sylvia Sewell
This exhibition is sponsored by Angel City Football Club & NYX Professional Makeup.
View the Zine
Photo printing for this exhibition sponsored by Epilogue Inc.
FEATURED PHOTOGRAPHERS
Aimee Hernandez
Alexis Realin
Angel Ochoa
Apollonia Pinedo
Arabella Hernandez
Audrey Barba
Brooklyn Castellanos
Camila S. Sandoval
Eli Aguilar
Emily Guerrero
Emma Espinoza
Isyz Gracian
Jennifer Martinez
Kelsey Becerra
Maya Reyes
Meredith Flores
MiaBella Guzman
Samantha Flores Ramirez
Yumi Matsumura
Aimee Hernandez,
AGE 16
My name is Aimee Hernandez, I am a 16-year old photographer from South Central L.A. I’ve lived in L.A. my whole life and joining Las Fotos Project is what has inspired and given me the opportunity to start photography. I began 2 years ago, photographing everyday life and self portraits. Now as I’ve grown and experimented with my photos, what I capture has changed. This year, as I joined new clubs such as volleyball and track & field and gained new interests, my focus in photography turned towards capturing high school sports and the city of L.A. photography in LA has included images of graffiti, family-based businesses, and my neighborhood.
Graffiti in L.A.
Sometimes seen as just vandalism, the art form of graffiti has been used for multiple purposes. Starting in the 1870s, the writing style of “hobo” graffiti was used for communication. Now, as the style has evolved, the modern graffiti that is most recognized has been inspired by hip-hop and is used as social commentary and a means of self-expression. Graffiti isn’t just vandalism of buildings; it's taking back spaces for the community and for many, a form of art.
Alexis Realin,
AGE 15
Alexis Realin is 15 years old and a Mexican American artist from Mexicali and Cuba. She is a freshman in high school and in her first semester at Las Fotos Project, in Digital Promotoras. In her free time, she loves to hang out with friends, paint, shop, and play softball. In her future she wants to become a cosmetologist. Having always loved photographs, she came to LFP to explore the world of photography. Through her images, she enjoys showing themes of nature and fashion and experimenting with the medium to show beauty in the little things. She hopes you enjoy the showcase today and everyone’s work!
Floral Focus
Floral Focus is an exploration of flowers blooming amid the urban sprawl of LA—a city known for its constant reinvention. This project captures the strength and beauty of flowers growing in unexpected places: cracked sidewalks, busy streets, forgotten corners of the city. Reflecting resilience and flourishing despite harsh surroundings, the flowers become proud metaphors for the people of L.A. The city is where creativity and endurance coexist—vibrant, determined, and boldly alive, finding grace even in moments of struggle and despair.
Angel Ochoa,
AGE 17
Angel Ochoa is the daughter of two Mexican immigrants who fled a place they called home to seek more opportunities in a foreign land. She grew up in South Central L.A., in a seemingly mixing pot of cultures. Angel always had a mix of African-American and American-Mexican Chicana lifestyle. With her love for soul music and hip-hop, she is in touch with her roots through soccer, Mexican holidays, and food. She captures her upbringing, roots, and charming memories through her photography. She hopes to create pathways for other photographers and photojournalists to express themselves and be the voice for the unprivileged and oppressed. She showcases her work on social media under @ang3ls_lens.
Amo eterno
As we grow, we all go our separate ways to follow our dreams in life. But our traditions, music, and culture will always remain a part of us and will always remain a part of us, even if others try to take away our identity. Through our altars, we honor and remember our loved ones who have passed away. One way or another, our faith will always stay with us, y nunca lo van a separar de nosotros.
Apollonia Pinedo,
AGE 14
My name is Apollonia Pinedo. I'm 14 years old and I have many hobbies, with photography being one of them. I like to draw, make pins, and make jewelry. Photography is interesting to me because I can express myself in many different ways.
ICE Off My Property!
I chose to do a series of storefronts that say “I.C.E Off My Property.” Many stores have put them up in defense of having I.C.E. coming on to their property to harass and kidnap immigrants. This is a way to show unity with the community that is being targeted by I.C.E. This also makes me and others feel more welcome going into a store with these signs.
Arabella Hernandez,
AGE 16
Arabella Hernandez is a 16-year-old first-gen latina photographer from Los Angeles who finds inspiration in the everyday moments that most people walk right past. She actively captures the small details that tell honest and deep stories about living life in L.A. Arabella sees photography as a way to slow down and really look at the world, finding beauty in places that might seem ordinary at first. She enjoys wandering through streets, looking to catch something real, unexpected, or just simply human. Through her work, she hopes others will start noticing the little things, too.
Te conocí antes
Shops and restaurants in my neighborhood are trying to survive despite gentrification and rising prices. They stand their ground and stay in their communities, resisting the prejudice and pressures of modern-day colonization. They continue to stand strong to preserve their culture and customs and to fight against being forced out of their communities. Las Cazuelas is a traditional Salvadoran restaurant that has been in Highland Park since 1985. They've been resisting gentrification and refusing to leave their building.
Audrey Barba,
AGE 14
I’m Audrey Barba, 14, she/her, born and raised in L.A. My family is from Oaxaca, Mexico. I'm in 9th grade and go to New Roads School. I would describe myself as empathetic, kind, and determined. Photography has always been an interest of mine, and this is the first time I have taken photography seriously.
I enjoy taking photos of anything aesthetically pleasing and that catches my eye. My friends and family are my main inspiration, and support me always. When I'm older I'm not really sure what I want to be but I want to feel proud of myself and successful in anything I explore.
My goal for this semester was to be confident in my work. I feel I have accomplished that goal with my photos! This has been such a fun learning journey and opportunity to explore my creativity!
My Culver City
This is a photo of Culver City from Bill Botts Park, with a call to action: ICE OUT OF LA! This photograph represents our resilience as a community against ICE, and the pride I have for where I grew up. I love Culver City for its simplicity and I feel deeply at home within the community.
Brooklyn Castellanos,
AGE 13
Brooklyn Castellanos (she/her) is a 13-year-old second-generation Mexican-American who was born and raised in Echo Park, Los Angeles. Brooklyn is currently a freshman in high school who is juggling extracurricular activities, school and Las Fotos Project. Reflecting on her completion of one year at Las Fotos Project, Brooklyn realizes she has learned more about herself as well as how she wants to continue to pursue photography in her future careers. Brooklyn’s inspiration comes from the love for her culture, her family and the people she surrounds herself with.
Heart of Sunset
The Echo Park swan boats are moving across the lake with their reflections gliding through the sunset-reflected water. From living in Echo Park all her life, Brooklyn feels connected to the park knowing it’s been a space of gathering in the neighborhood. Given the drastic changes in the culture of her environment, this image shows more than just a lake with swans, it’s a photograph dedicated to the community, people, and businesses that she’s seen change over the years.
Camila S. Sandoval,
AGE 17
My name is Camila Sandoval, a 17-year-old artist from Lincoln Heights, Los Angeles. My photography intends to explore feelings of passion, comfortability, and nostalgia. My inspiration comes from my family and my Mexican-Salvadorian culture. My community shows up in my art through the colors I capture and the feelings that are displayed. Photography has allowed me to explore my creativity and express myself and my emotions. When people see my work I want people to feel a sense of community. I believe that art is powerful because it can evoke feelings that may have not been brought up otherwise.
El juego de la comunidad
Soccer fields are symbols of pride. They connect families, communities, and people unafraid to gather and show up for those they love. In L.A., these fields are cultural staples filled with voices, traditions, and a sense of belonging. I love soccer, not as a player, but as someone welcomed into its community. These images are my way of honoring the cultural connections and resilience that thrive on every field.
Eli Aguilar,
AGE 18
Eli Aguilar is an 18-year-old photographer living in South Central, Los Angeles. While attending high school, she also helped support her family financially by working at their business on the weekends. This job took her to the bustling corridor of Hollywood Boulevard, which inspired her to photograph the complexities of being a street vendor. Through her work, she aims to explore what it means to be human in an ever-changing world.
The Stand
Street vending has a long and rich history in Los Angeles dating back to the 1800s. My grandfather was a street vendor, my father is, and so am I. I enjoy cooking food, meeting strangers, and making money—it’s all part of the hustle. I was 11 years old when I began to learn the business, and now my little brother, 11 as well, is starting to learn himself, in order to carry the family tradition into the future.
Emily Guerrero,
AGE 15
I am a L.A.-based photographer, my name is Emily Guerrero, and I am L.A. born and raised. My work focuses on life, culture, and identity. I especially like to take portraits of flowers, and people. I feel like my love for portraits is inspired by friends. But when I'm not taking pictures you can find me outdoors in nature, out with my family, or simply exploring my neighborhood. My goal for this semester was to explore identity and inclusivity. I want my photos to preserve a sense of my community’s identity and history against gentrification and ongoing issues.
Sabor y color de mi tierra
When I think of “orgullo y resistencia,” I think of our fruit sellers, taco and tamale vendors, and the elotero. Even as ICE raids create fear and keep some inside, seeing vendors set up or hearing the elotero’s horn brings joy and nostalgia. Buying a raspado or fruit from people who greet you warmly, even calling you mijo or mija, reminds me of the comfort and resilience our community carries.
Emma Espinoza,
AGE 14
Emma Espinoza is a 14-year old Mexican American photographer from South Pasadena, CA. Emma has always had a passion for art, creating, editing videos, and storytelling. Some of her favorite places to visit are Hawaii and Las Vegas. This is Emma’s first semester at Las Fotos Project and she strives to get better at photography and telling stories through her art. Emma hopes for a bright and clear future with her parents and friends by her side.
The Outcast
The Outcast is a project centered around being proud and confident in your culture. I have photographed my grandmother, Maria Ochoa, who is an immigrant from Mexico. She lives in Altadena and I believe that the kindness and love that lives inside my grandmother’s house protected it during the fires. My grandmother taught me to be proud of our culture and to never be embarrassed of being first generation.
Isyz Gracian,
AGE 16
My name is Isyz Gracian, I’m a 16-year-old visual artist from L.A. My artist media include: paintings, sculptures, fashion pieces, and photography. Through the themes in my work, I want to encourage people to wonder about everything and anything. In a time where automation is being pushed upon us, it's important to hold onto human connection. Using my work, I want to encourage people to build community by connecting with one another. As an artist, I believe it is my duty to continue to create art that reflects humanity, my world, and my thoughts.
”P”
Years ago my cousins came to visit L.A and said “Why are there drawings on the wall? Looks dirty.” It got me thinking, I had never thought about graffiti that way. For me graffiti is people putting art in places that they love, their home. It’s more than drawings on a wall. There is a big stigma that graffiti is dirty and ugly, but I think it’s beautiful. It tells stories and it’s about leaving your mark on the world around you.
Jennifer Martinez,
AGE 17
Jennifer Martinez is a 17-year-old photographer from Los Angeles. She is a senior and will be graduating soon from Alliance Ted K. Tajima High School. She is first-generation Mexican-American and grew up in Koreatown surrounded by a culture different from her own. She creates images that explore her various passions. Her inspiration comes from her heritage and identity. She puts an emphasis on sharing personal and cultural experiences that others might not understand, with the intent to bring them in to enjoy and appreciate it. Through her work, she wants people to feel seen and inspired to be their authentic selves. Her artwork depicts emotional moments that others might overlook as ordinary occurrences. She focuses on capturing the wonderful diverse community in L.A. and appreciating the different cultures that have overlapping similarities.
W 8th St & Irolo St
W 8th St & Irolo St is about the relationships that street vendors establish with members of their community. The relationships we have with others, particularly those we pass by daily, like street vendors, are sometimes overlooked. During this political climate it is extremely empowering knowing how many street vendors are working and selling and refusing to let racial profiling and discrimination stop them from sharing their culture and food to provide for their family.
Kelsey Becerra,
AGE 16
Kelsey Mariah Amada Becerra is an Afro-Indigenous artist based in East Los Angeles, California. Inspired by the city of Los Angeles and a visible passion for the arts, Kelsey finds particular joy in capturing moments. Her work frequently explores themes of beauty, culture, and community through photography.
Art is Kelsey's first love, and exploring various mediums has always been a favorite pastime. Photography has always held a special place in Kelsey’s life, with childhood memories recorded through capturing moments and preserving them in photo books. Kelsey aims to continue her artistic journey as she transitions to a young adult, making an impact and finding community through the love of art.
Mi corazon se llena de amor por el baile
This project documents various traditional dances from different cultures across the lands we know today as Mexico. Communities that migrated to Los Angeles, both at will or due to displacement, openly express their cultural pride through dance movement. In these photographs, the traditional regalia shines, as it represents the empowerment the dancers carry with them not only when they dance, but in their everyday lives. Dance becomes a form of resistance and remembrance for these communities.
Maya Reyes,
AGE 15
Maya Reyes is a young 15-year-old Latina artist who resides in Pasadena. She is currently attending Blair High School as a 9th-grader. This is her sixth semester in Las Fotos Project. Like many people, she has also faced mental health challenges in the past, but Maya channels her struggles into motivation to continue pursuing her passion for art. Maya's art reflects her community, cultural identity, inner self, passions, and thoughts on life. She always tries to push herself out of her comfort zone to create her art for people to see.
Paloma del sol
Danza Azteca has been an integral part of my life since I was born. With the ongoing injustices that Hispanic people are fighting against, I believe that danza is a powerful example of the pride our community still holds. The people in our community stand firm against injustice and advocate for those who cannot speak for themselves. Paloma del Sol is a danza title, and this dance is very lively and fast-paced. This is how we as Hispanics are: energetic, unapologetic, and loud.
Meredith Flores,
AGE 17
My name is Meredith Flores, and I am from East L.A. Las Fotos Project has been a part of my life for four different semesters, each one guiding me towards a deeper level of understanding of my environment and skill of self-expression. With this class I look forward to documenting mine and others’ experiences, as times change.
POWER TO THE PEOPLE
Growing up, my mother has taught me about the importance of advocating for myself and my community. Whether it is embracing culture or participating in community resistance movements, being there for those who can't be is what creates a difference. Together, we have fought for education, equity, and the well-being of the people. She inspires me and others to put in the effort to help speak out for the community, which can ultimately lead to a positive change in society.
MiaBella Guzman,
AGE 15
My name is MiaBella Guzman I am a photographer based in Norwalk. I am currently a 15-year-old student at Las Fotos Project. I have been doing photography since August of 2025. My main goal with photography is to not only to display photos but also to capture multiple points of views. What inspired me to join a photography class is the fact that I not only like taking photos, but I also love capturing the beauty in my surroundings. I found out about Las Fotos Project through my friend Jade who is also a photography student at LFP. Through this program I was not only able to find a new hobby but also able to expand my knowledge of cameras and technical skills.
Latinx con plantas
My photo was taken at a plant store in Boyle Heights called Latinx with Plants. This store caught my eye because it is near Las Fotos Project. One of the things that caught my eye in the store was the sign that said “Sin Miedo al ICE.” “Sin Miedo al ICE ” translates to "Without Fear of ICE. This sign not only represents strength, but it also signifies resistance. The sign was placed in the store to not only show support to Latino immigrants but immigrants in general.
Samantha Flores Ramirez,
AGE 17
Sam is a 17-year old Mexican immigrant from Puebla, Cholula and an artist at heart. Whether it's through photography, animation, drawing, or filmmaking, she uses art to tell stories of her own experience and that of others. She consistently explores new ways to express herself and push the boundaries of her creativity with her use of color, composition, and mixed media in photography. She has been part of Las Fotos Project for four years where she has had the opportunity to refine her photography skills and connect with other young artists.
The Unwalkable Walkable City
Los Angeles is widely known for being one of the most car-dependent regions in the world, which makes it difficult for people to walk through clean, safe, and well-designed neighborhoods. This project highlights the people working to change that by pushing to make L.A. a more walkable and pedestrian-friendly city. Its goal is to shine a light on the individuals dedicated to making the streets of Los Angeles safer and more accessible for everyone.
Yumi Matsumura,
AGE 15
Yumi Matsumura is a 15-year-old photographer based in Culver City, CA. Her work focuses on both collages and portraits to highlight and showcase resilience and pride while trying to maintain cultural ties. Drawing inspiration from her mixed culture and the diverse community they live in, her photography explores identity, culture, and confidence within oneself. After hearing about Las Fotos Project through friends on multiple occasions, she was drawn into LFP’s mission to uplift and guide upcoming young artists.
鏡花水月 (Kyouka Suigetsu)
鏡花水月, meaning beautiful yet unattainable is a photograph exploring both resilience and pride, inspired by mixed culture and experience of being Japanese-Salvadorean in a western centric society. This collage reveals a feeling of both intimacy with one's cultural individuality as well as the desire for sharing with friends. By incorporating English, Spanish, and Japanese, I want to be able to appeal to many people despite possible language barriers, making my photograph move accessible.
