Altadena, a charming neighborhood in the San Gabriel Mountains, has long been a hub for artists and creatives. This community, known for its laid-back atmosphere and strong sense of community, has nurtured generations of talent. Among them is Betye Saar, a renowned artist affiliated with Otis, whose roots in Altadena trace back to the 1930s and 1940s.

Saar’s Early Years and Rise

Growing up on the edge of Altadena, young Betye Saar remembers her neighbors fondly, including future Hall of Fame baseball player Jackie Robinson, who lived nearby. Her neighborhood was also home to a local five-and-dime store, where she discovered her passion for crafts and collecting trinkets.

After studying art at Pasadena Junior College and the University of California, Los Angeles, Saar moved to Laurel Canyon. However, she maintained strong ties to her hometown, fostering both family and professional relationships with Altadena and northwest Pasadena.

The Birth of Brown and Tann

In the 1950s, Saar (then Betye Brown) ventured into entrepreneurship by starting Brown and Tann, a jewelry business she ran with Curtis Tann. Her sister, Jeffalyn Johnson, a teacher and civic leader, hosted art shows in her backyard on Lincoln Avenue. These gatherings were a highlight for the neighborhood, where visitors dressed in their finest for the occasion.

Art displays were not limited to backyards; churches, afternoon tea parties, and artist-run studios also showcased local talent. Events often included musical performances and book readings, cementing Altadena’s reputation as an arts-friendly community.

The Unseen Artists of Altadena

According to Moore, Art in Altadena was often informal and community-driven, with artists staying under the radar, eschewing mainstream recognition from distant galleries, museums, and critics. Despite this, when artists like Saar gained broader recognition, they were frequently associated with the broader Los Angeles art scene.

The Devastating Impact of Wildfires

However, the tranquility of Altadena was disrupted in recent years by devastating wildfires. The flames have claimed hundreds of homes and studios, forcing countless artists to evacuate and face uncertainty about their futures. The community is grappling with the aftermath of these natural disasters, wondering how many residents will return to rebuild.

One such artist is La Monte Westmoreland, a 83-year-old collage artist who lost a home in the 1993 Kinneloa fire. Despite having rebuilt, he recently suffered additional losses, including his patio, koi pond, and several sculptures. Expressing his frustration, Westmoreland stated, “I just don’t want to go through this again.”

The Future of Altadena’s Art Community

As Altadena looks to recover and rebuild, the future of its art community remains uncertain. The resilience of artists like Saar and Westmoreland, however, offers a glimmer of hope. Their unwavering commitment to their craft and their determination to continue creating and sharing their work inspire others in the community.

Supporting these artists and the art community in Altadena is crucial. Donations, volunteerism, and continued patronage of local galleries can help preserve this vital part of the neighborhood’s heritage.