By Stephanie Mercado

The economic and social impact of COVID-19 has inspired reflection and solidarity among us, amplifying the importance of the work of nonprofits, and the vital role that arts and culture plays in our daily lives. We are a cultural art center serving artists, individuals and families across neighborhoods, spanning beyond the borders of the County and City of Los Angeles. Together we can do extraordinary things to help our communities heal, recover and thrive. Help us to make a difference in the lives of the people we serve. Please consider making a donation to SHG on May 5, Giving Tuesday– any amount is appreciated. 

Why give? Self Help Graphics & Art is a resource for many. It’s not only home to our world-class printmaking program, exhibitions and arts education, but our building is frequently used by local youth, emerging artists, artist-entrepreneurs, small businesses, local community members, nonprofit organizations, advocacy coalitions and more! Each year in the City of Los Angeles alone, we serve 30,000 people and employ local artists to facilitate workshops. 

How is COVID-19 impacting SHG artists? For some artists we are their “home away from home,” where they can use space to explore their practices, bounce ideas off one other and make work. The temporary closure of our building and event cancellations have severely impacted our artists’ ability to use our space to make a living. With limited access to equipment and much needed creative space to work, their inability to come together and skillshare has been a heavy economic burden. 

We need YOU. To continue to serve the community during the COVID-19 stay-at-home order, we’ve adapted our programming online and have offered critical resources to the public from a holistic approach– mind, body and spirit. It is through this unprecedented time, that we are reminded of the healing power of the arts and its ability to transform lives, and that la cultura cura, creativity heals. We know that times are tough but if you can afford to support us on #GivingTuesdayNow, please help us through this challenging time so that we are ready to be of service as well during the recovery of this unprecedented moment. Not only can you make a difference with a donation, but we are now offering SHG Gift Cards, good for the purchase of future merchandise, workshops or best of all– art! Much gratitude for your generosity and THANK YOU for your consideration. 

Stephanie Mercado is Self Help Graphics & Art’s Development Coordinator. Jennifer Cuevas contributed to this story.