The impact of SPARC’s work is best voiced in that of a community
partner. Works such as the CARECEN mural, the first significant public
work created in Los Angeles about the migration of Central Americans
into the Pico Union district of Los Angeles represent the partnerships
with community groups who wish to visualize the issues affecting their
community. Regarding the experience at CARECEN Angela Sanbrano Former
Executive Director of CARECEN writes, “SPARC’s work parallels the
organization’s belief in art as a reflection of the lives of America’s
diverse ethnic communities. Especially heartening has been the
organization’s development of a community approach in the creation of
art for the betterment of society. SPARC’s work with CARECEN empowered
participating youth, enabling them not only to play an active role in
the decision process, but also to work with their parents, professional
artists, ethnologists and scholars. This is an experience that has
enriched their lives while creating meaningful change in the Central
American community itself. By encouraging students to take
responsibility for their community and their own individual
development, SPARC has enabled them to grow in new and exciting ways.”
