Author: Matt Smiley

In June of 2017, I had my first solo art show “Dreams Fizzle into Space” at The Bloc in downtown Los Angeles. While the show was originally slated to be for one night only, it was eventually extended for a month, which allowed people to discover the space on their own and find a bit of a refuge from their daily lives.

It was such a pleasure meeting new people and learning more about them as they took a tour of the exhibit. One comment in particular that was relayed to me on several occasions was that the artwork made them happy (I often pretended I wasn’t the artist and just managing the space). On a daily basis, we’re constantly inundated with negative or sad news, so any moment I can find to brighten someone’s day makes me happy. I’d say that’s the ultimate goal. 

Being asked to return to The Bloc a year later and work on a mural in the main courtyard was truly an honor. I got a chance to speak with everyone walking by and see them brighten up when they saw my hearts being painted. Now I get to watch them enjoy the finished mural as they sip their coffees and lounge on the grassy square.

The concept I had for this project was a simple. I wanted to share love. There is always somewhere we can make a difference in people’s lives. The Blocs of Love are a representation of just that idea. Love is something that is built over time. Sure, sometimes love can magically spark, but in general, it is built; much like a building (in this case, The Bloc), love is something that needs a strong foundation to grow. The Blocs of love, situated on the ground level of The Bloc represents just that: a place where people can meet and share some love, even if it’s just for a quick smile as you pass by.

Friends can help each other. A true friend is someone who lets you have total freedom to be yourself – and especially to feel. Or, not feel. Whatever you happen to be feeling at the moment is fine with them. That’s what real love amounts to – letting a person be what he really is.

– Jim Morrison

Sharing the Love

It’s so much fun to see a project come together and witness people bring it to life!

And now for the fun part! Get your phones and your best selfie pose ready for a special $250 giveaway to the most creative gram to spend at The Bloc. Visit The Bloc LA for more details.

Can’t wait to see the lucky winning photo!