A Man In Plain Sight

The Los Angeles County Department of Arts & Culture recently showcased new artworks by eight remarkable artists at the unveiling event for the Los Angeles Department of Public Defender’s new headquarters. Our creative process involved in-depth interaction with the Public Defender’s staff and investigators; we interviewed them, observed their work in courtrooms, researched archives, and listened to stories of some of their clients. This immersive experience inspired us to create meaningful art.

On April 4, my work was unveiled “A Man In Plain Sight” at the Los Angeles Public Defender Offices in the Hall of Records, where it will remain as part of their permanent collection. This piece took about eight months of studio work to complete, the process beginning in late 2021. The artwork features my brother Adam and my grandson as models, and it portrays a dignified and hopeful image of an ordinary man. I aimed to showcase someone who displays confidence in knowing that he has a legal team who is advocating for him, serving as a symbol for the everyday individual without extensive resources or influential connections. I chose to highlight a moment of triumph amidst adversity, emphasizing the resilience found in facing challenges head-on, even when it feels like we’re on our own. More to the point none of us are the worst thing that has ever happened to us. There is complexity and depth to who we are.

I am grateful for this opportunity and delighted to collaborate with an institution I deeply respect. Special thanks to Supervisor Hilda Solis, project manager Iris Regn, and the dedicated staff at the Los Angeles County Public Defenders for their partnership focused on equity and openness.

The participating artists were Abel Alejandre, Moses Ball, Kenturah Davis, Andrew Hem, Elana Mann, Ian Robertson-Salt, Sergio Teran, and Jody Zellen.

It is an immense honor to be part of this project, and I am thoroughly pleased with the outcome.

Event photos by Martin Zamora/ Studio photos by Frank Huskey