Art Division's Mocktail Mixer: A Night of Art, Conversation, and Connection

On Saturday, April 8th, the Art Division library transformed into a social hub for the highly anticipated Mocktail Mixer. The event, which started at 4:30 pm, was open to all community members and promised "the freshest mocktails in town." Flyers scattered across the library and paint studio invited attendees to indulge in delicious beverages and engage in thought-provoking discussions about art and life in Los Angeles.
The Mocktail Mixer was an opportunity for Art Division students and staff to connect and unwind. Award-winning mixologist Ellie Herman, who by day serves as Art Division’s College and Career Coach, served as the mastermind behind the bar, creating bespoke, house-made specialties. The drink menu featured a creamy virgin pina colada and a sparkling hibiscus gem, both of which were a hit among the guests, causing Ellie to claim that she had won several more awards. Art Division student Luxe played a vital role in the success of the event, acting as the official taster and significantly improving the taste of the pina colada. In addition to their mixology contributions, Luxe kept the energy alive by curating the perfect playlist for the afternoon.

Students Eli Alejo, Jones Gutierrez, Gris Sanchez, Jenny Payan, Alexandra Gonzalez, Yearlin Itzep, Millie Ruiz, Merling Velasquez, Melissa Soriano, Jess Muñoz and Stephanie Cortez attended the Mocktail Mixer, accompanied by Art Division Program Coordinator Nicole Beranga and Special Programs Coordinator Luis Motta. Nicole played a crucial role in taste-testing the mocktails and keeping the conversation flowing. Luis arrived fashionably late, greeted with scattered applause. To break the ice, attendees discussed their dream lives, imagining where they would live and what they would do if they didn't have to work. The conversation quickly transitioned to the more serious topic of navigating life as young artists in Los Angeles. Many students expressed their eagerness to find a supportive artistic community, especially now that they were no longer in school.

Colectivé 41, Art Division's student-led artist’s group that centers work made by Black, Brown and Queer artists, took the opportunity to give a presentation about their work and the impact they aim to create. The passion and dedication exhibited by Colectivé 41 members inspired several guests to express interest in joining the collective. The Mocktail Mixer was such a success that Ellie finally had to shut off the lights to get everyone to leave. Several students appeared to be leaving the Art Division library with plans to continue the festivities at an afterparty.

The Mocktail Mixer proved to be a night filled with art, conversation, and connection, and may become a monthly event. The mixer's success is a testament to the ongoing commitment of the Art Division community to foster a supportive and inclusive environment for all those who dream of pursuing a life in the arts.