Lauren Halsey Opens Free Public Sculpture Park 'sister dreamer' in Los Angeles

Los Angeles artist Lauren Halsey has unveiled a new public sculpture park titled 'sister dreamer' at the intersection of Western Avenue and 76th Street in South Central Los Angeles. The installation represents the realization of a vision Halsey first conceived sixteen years ago while studying at El Camino Community College. The park features eight 22-foot-tall pillars modeled after local community figures rather than historical rulers, alongside sphinxes, benches, fountains, native plants, and edible gardens. The temporary installation will remain for 18 months before relocating to a permanent site. Halsey's work integrates her signature visual elements, including street art influences and Egyptian motifs. The park serves as a physical hub for her nonprofit Summaeverythang Community Center and offers entirely free programming across three categories: art education through partnerships with institutions like The Broad and local arts groups; academic support including tutoring and architecture classes; and wellness activities such as yoga, community meals with notable chefs, and fitness clubs. Additional events will include jazz performances and film screenings, beginning with Arthur Jafa's 'Love Is the Message.' The project launched with a major community celebration on March 14 featuring Parliament-Funkadelic members and various local performances. Halsey emphasizes the park's democratic accessibility, stating her goal was to create a space where participation requires no financial barrier.