MY NEIGHBOR SERIES: Capturing the Soul of America's Diverse City" by Alexey Steele
Internationally-known artist Alexey Steele developed the "Love My Neighbor" public art project right here in Carson. The concept of the series is to capture inspiring local heroes who command universal love and admiration, even within the most difficult neighborhoods. In Carson, that neighborhood is called Scottsdale. Alexey earned the trust of Scottsdale residents, even bringing Bank of America volunteers into the community to teach their "Better Money Habits" program. His public art project opened the lines of communication between the City of Carson and this underserved community. Alexey spent 500 hours publicly painting a portrait of Cirilo, a gardener who has tended to Scottsdale for 30+ years. The work and its display in the new Artward! Gallery "Scottsdale" have brought the community together in a beautiful and sustainable way.
"Love Thy Neighbor" is the basic building block in the moral fiber of our society. Statistically, the City of Carson is the 5th most diverse city in the nation with a community most closely reflecting our World. My Neighbor Series captures the soul and essence of the City of Carson through a collection of portrayals of neighbors.