INDIGOREV: A Journey of Art and Activism
Overview
INDIGOREV was an innovative research project and immersive installation that explored human connectivity through art and activism from 2015 to 2017. Curated by Tru and the FORTHEFUTURE team, this series of events engaged the community in meaningful dialogues through sound, video, fine art, performance, and workshops. The project aimed to cultivate a space where creativity could flourish and serve as a platform for addressing vital social issues. It represented a commitment to honoring and empowering marginalized voices while fostering collaboration among artists and community members.
The first INDIGOREV activation took place in 2015 at Crown Roots, a skate shop in Pasadena, California. This venue was chosen not only for its artistic potential but also for its significance in the local skate culture, which embodies a spirit of creativity and community. The event was a collaboration among prominent artists, including Willow Smith, Crystal Mec, Tyler Cole, and visual artists Amber Park and Noah AP. Central to this activation was the release of "Conscious Trap," an experimental EP produced by the collective known as DIASPORA. The compositions were born out of improvisational studio sessions, showcasing the group's commitment to exploring sound as a means of expression and connectivity.
The installation featured a curated selection of images and artworks that reflected themes of spirituality, health and wellness, and community engagement. By transforming the skate shop into a vibrant gallery space, INDIGOREV allowed attendees to experience art in an unconventional setting. This immersive atmosphere facilitated conversations about the social climate and environmental consciousness, encouraging attendees to engage with the works and each other on a deeper level. Despite limited documentation of this inaugural event, the energy and creativity it sparked set the foundation for future activations, highlighting the importance of community-driven artistic expression.
In its second year, INDIGOREV expanded its reach by relocating to the Almost Us Gallery on La Brea Avenue in Los Angeles. This two-story gallery offered an ideal environment for showcasing a diverse array of performances and multimedia works. The installation featured contributions from artists such as Raury, Annahstasia, Mereba, Tyler Cole, Jamel Dean, Black Nile, and Crystal Mec, who all brought their unique perspectives and talents to the forefront. The second activation also incorporated live screen printing, allowing attendees to engage with the artistic process while creating tangible pieces to take home.
The event kicked off with a community gathering at LA Memorial Park, emphasizing the project’s dedication to honoring communal spirit and activism. Attendees participated in creating signs and banners, embodying the collective's message of social change and unity. After the gathering, participants marched from the park to the gallery, fostering a sense of solidarity and purpose. The exhibition opened with a celebration that included performances and interactive elements, creating an inviting and dynamic atmosphere. As part of this activation, attendees also experienced a guided hike led by artist and spiritual healer Raury, promoting mindfulness and reflection amidst the natural beauty of the landscape. This blend of artistic expression, community engagement, and wellness created a powerful experience that resonated with everyone involved.
The final INDIGOREV activation took place in 2017 at a small market store off Pico Boulevard, significant to Los Angeles's diverse and multicultural history. This venue was emblematic of the project's commitment to accessibility and community engagement, allowing for a more intimate setting where attendees could experience art in their everyday environment. During this activation, works by Samuel Trotter and Noah AP were showcased, presented as items for sale in a market-like display. This approach highlighted the potential of everyday spaces to serve as platforms for artistic exploration and community dialogue.
The culmination of this activation featured live performances from a range of artists, including Willow Smith, Téo, Black Nile, and the FORTHEFUTURE collective. These performances underscored the project's mission of celebrating creativity and collective expression while addressing vital social issues. INDIGOREV was more than an art gallery or exhibition; it was a movement that represented community activation and the importance of health and wellness, spirituality, and social consciousness. Through dialogue, craft, and performance, the project offered an intimate space for education and conversation around critical social topics, reinforcing the need for safe spaces within Los Angeles that intentionally championed creative practices and community building.
INDIGOREV was a groundbreaking initiative that transcended traditional art exhibitions. It cultivated a deeper understanding of human connectivity and the power of art as a tool for activism and community engagement. The project continues to inspire future endeavors within FORTHEFUTURE, reinforcing the importance of collective gathering and artistic expression in fostering resilience and creativity within marginalized communities.