As part of our collaboration with Machine Project to create a series of pop-up performances, installations and interactive art in Grand Park, artist Elana Mann and facilitator Camilo Cruz have been leading a collection of Los Angeles County and City employees in a series of informal discussions. These conversations, called Grand Rounds, center on the many voices, ears, and roles both public officials and citizens use to invigorate communities.
Each Tuesday in May, the group (which varies in participants) meets in a grassy area of Grand Park. They sit in a circle on a brightly colored blanket, enjoy some delicious eats donated by the collectively-run restaurant Thank You For Coming, while they talk about issues of communication and community. The vibe is friendly, inclusive and documented through courtroom sketches by Mona Edwards – Perfectly fitting in this oasis among the court rooms.
But the conversations don’t end there. In the month of June, look out for the installation of pink ear horns throughout the park. These sonic artworks will play original sounds inspired by the Grand Rounds lunch time conversations and further put the emphasis of the work on the value of listening in our sometimes noisy lives.
Keep an eye out for more thought-provoking and entertaining events as part of The Music Center Presents The Machine Project’s Field Guide to Grand Park in the weeks to come!
