Alumni Studio Visit

On Saturday, Art Division students joined alumni Alex “OTISWOODS” Gonzalez and Roberto Ortiz for an afternoon studio visit at their shared space near LaFayette Park. The visit began with a striking introduction about the importance of community spaces and collaborative peer building, values that continue to guide both artists in their creative practices. Born and raised in the MacArthur Park/Koreatown neighborhood, Alex and Roberto shared how their lived experiences as first-generation Angelenos inform their work in music, painting, and beyond.
They reflected on their time at Art Division, crediting mentors Dan McCleary and Luis Serrano for providing guidance and opportunities that helped propel their artistic careers. Students explored sketchbooks, paintings, musical instruments, and works in progress—gaining insight into how experiential learning, mentorship, and community shape artistic growth.
​The afternoon was both inspiring and grounding, reminding us that building an oasis for creative expression depends on shared experiences and a commitment to community involvement.