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Cultural Politics

The arts have always been used to tackle difficult issues on a wide scale. From poetry that ignites millions to photography that captures injustices, artists are using their creativity to make space for the marginalized and give light to untold stories.

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From the beginning, the DNA of “Artbound” has been about democratization, not only in terms of access to more contemporary arts-based programs but about diversifying that content itself in meaningful ways. Follow its journey through ten seasons.
Jeffrey Deitch at his desk | Still from "Artbound" Jeffrey Deitch's Los Angeles
54:08
A behind-the-scenes look at the contemporary art world through the eyes of a legendary art dealer and curator, Jeffrey Deitch.
How Sweet the Sound gospel music primary Gospel ABs10
52:51
Gospel music would not be what it is today if not for the impact left by Los Angeles in the late 60’s and early 70’s, a time defined by political movements across the country.
Woman in calavera face paint during Día de los Muertos | Photo from "Día de los Muertos/Day of the Dead" ABs10
56:18
Inspired by Oaxacan traditions, Dia de Los Muertos was brought to L.A. in the '70s as a way to enrich and reclaim Chicano identity. It has since grown in proportions and is celebrated around the world.
Heathware being stamped | Still from "Heath Ceramics: The Making of a California Classic" ABs10
54:58
"Artbound" looks at the dinnerware of Heath Ceramics and a design that has stood the test of time since the company began in the late 1940’s.
Noriko Kamei enjoying sake | Still from "The Migrant Kitchen" Sequoia Sake
Unlike wine, sake is best consumed fresh. The freshest sake you could arguably get your hands on is namazake or unpasteurized sake. Here's where to find it in Los Angeles.
Larb Hotspots
Larb is a versatile Thai minced meat salad with many spellings, many ingredients and many fans.  
Pla Gra-taem (Garlic Fish) from Chao Krung | Courtesy of Chao Krung
While Los Angeles’ Thai Town may be diminutive in size, only occupying a half-mile stretch in East Hollywood, its existence has been symbolic and influential in Thai culture on a much grander scale, locally and transnationally.
Lamees Dahbour and her family in La Cocina | Jim Sullivan
Since it opened in 2005, La Cocina has grown 35 food businesses. This incubator kitchen gives mostly women, immigrants, moms and refugees a chance to succeed as a food entrepreneur in a highly competitive and male-dominated industry.
A dish made by Lamees Dahbour | Jim Sullivan
Lamees Dahbour and Reem Assil are redefining their cuisine and culture, and serving up a message of understanding and acceptance.
Mister Jiu's Waverly entrance | Courtesy of Mister Jiu's featured
Much of the restaurants in SF’s original Chinatown suffer from touristy mediocrity, but Chinatown’s deep community knows the neighborhood’s narrow streets contain a wealth of under-the-radar Chinese delicacies and flavors.
A Peking Duck dish at Mr. Jiu's | Antonio Diaz for hotspot
A dish with a royal lineage and a history spanning more than 400 years, Peking duck has inspired chefs, movie stars and poets. Learn more about this distinctively Chinese delicacy.
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