Held Friday, June 6, 2025 | Arts District, Los Angeles, CA
On Friday, June 6th, members of the California and Northwest Chapters of the Patrons came together in the heart of Los Angeles’ Arts District for a memorable day of art, dialogue, and community. The day featured a private visit to the newly opened Corita Art Center—dedicated to preserving and promoting the legacy of Sr. Mary Corita Kent—followed by a vibrant rooftop lunch at Cha Cha Chá.
The experience began at 11:00 AM with an exclusive docent-led tour of the Corita Art Center, located inside the historic 811 Traction Avenue building. Though modest in size, the Center holds a powerful energy. It preserves the life and work of Corita Kent (1918–1986)—a trailblazing artist, educator, and advocate who used bold colors, typography, and found text to express her beliefs in love, justice, and social change. A former religious sister in the Immaculate Heart of Mary order, Corita’s work evolved from devotional and figurative compositions to vibrant screen prints layered with slogans, lyrics, and political messaging.
Patrons explored the current exhibition, Heroes and Sheroes, which showcased works that celebrated both iconic and unsung figures of courage. In addition to viewing the collection, attendees had the rare opportunity to speak with senior leadership from the Center. The discussion touched on Corita’s influence as an artist and activist, the Center’s collaboration with the Vatican, and their vision for expanding public engagement with her work. It was an inspiring and thought-provoking conversation that underscored Corita’s enduring relevance today.
At 12:30 PM, the group strolled a short distance to Cha Cha Chá, a rooftop oasis with lush greenery and west-facing views of downtown Los Angeles. Inspired by its sister restaurant in Mexico City, Cha Cha Chá blends laid-back energy with sophisticated design. Surrounded by mid-century furnishings and warm LA sunlight, patrons enjoyed a beautifully curated lunch that matched the vibrancy of the morning’s tour.
Highlights from the menu included the tostada terraza, topped with delicate bluefin tuna and crispy cilantro, and pollo a las brasas, finished with achiote piquín sauce. The dessert—a silky chocolate flan garnished with a mezcal-infused cocoa crisp—was a true standout. As conversations continued across the table, it was clear that the afternoon had offered more than a meal; it had created space for reflection, connection, and celebration.
This special day in downtown LA was a perfect reflection of the Patrons’ mission: to explore meaningful art, engage with visionary institutions, and build a community that honors creativity, culture, and shared values.