Los Angeles Nomadic Division (LAND) is marking a significant milestone, celebrating 15 years of supporting the city’s vibrant artistic community. In honor of this occasion, cultural curator Anita Herrera is organizing a unique Y2K-inspired quinceañera, aptly named “El Quince,” scheduled for April 26. This celebration serves as a fundraiser and a way to recognize the contributions of local artists, continuing Herrera’s tradition of transforming gatherings into artistic expressions.
“El Quince” pays homage to the rich cultural traditions surrounding quinceañeras while encapsulating the energetic spirit of the early 2000s. The event features a curated sit-down dinner prepared by La Birria House and will spotlight the work of renowned dressmaker Diego Medel through a special installation. As Herrera weaves together a community of artists, attendees can look forward to contributions including a photo booth designed by artist Alfonso Gonzalez Jr. and a performance by singer San Cha.
The aesthetic for “El Quince” embraces the nostalgic colors of baby blue and white, evoking memories of imaginative celebrations filled with love and community. Herrera reflects on the essence of quinces, recalling simpler times marked by spiral balloon arches, fog machines, and dance parties characterized by personal touches, stating, “The quinces of that time were full of imagination, love, and community effort.”
LAND’s director, Laura Hyatt, emphasizes the significance of this 15-year achievement, which sparked meaningful conversations between her and Anita about the unique cultural weight of a quinceañera. “Anita’s work is all-inclusive and specific to her diasporic experience in Huntington Park, creating an invitation for everyone, regardless of their background, to connect with this celebration of coming of age,” Hyatt notes.
As part of the festivities, a diverse group of beloved Los Angeles artists joins the quince court, capturing the essence of cultural remembrance and identity. Notably, photographer Carlos Jaramillo will immortalize the quince court at Huntington Park City Hall, styled by designer Hoza Rodriguez, marking a heartfelt celebration within the local art community.
Understanding the depth of emotions surrounding quinceañeras, we reached out to the “El Quince” court to share their memories and reflections. Through their stories, we encounter a mosaic of nostalgia, humor, and personal reclamation.
San Cha reflects on her parents’ struggles with financial burdens in their new country and the communal effort involved in organizing a quinceañera. One of her favorite memories is from a time her mother served as a madrina, buying sodas in bulk to present themselves well despite their limited means. Her own quince was humble yet special, with a backyard celebration featuring musical performances and money-filled cards from relatives.
Ozzie Juarez, having grown up in Huntington Park, recounts his youthful experience as a cherished chambelan for multiple quinceañeras. Although the rehearsals felt exhausting, they shaped unforgettable memories, including a performance choreographed to the iconic
image source from：https://www.latimes.com/lifestyle/image/story/2025-04-22/el-quince
