MHALA and Artist Rhonda Love Announce Opening of “The Social Pivot”

As a continuation of an arts partnership, Mental Health America of Los Angeles (MHALA) and DreamKreator Studio’s Rhonda Love are opening a multi-day experience at Downtown Long Beach’s Mosaic (50 E. 4th Street, Long Beach 90802). “The Social Pivot” debuts on Saturday, June 15 through Friday, June 28, with several events throughout the two weeks.

The interactive exhibit explores the complexities arising from the impacts of a global health crisis, environmental change, and social justice.

Love describes her intention as guiding a person through the hero’s journey. “We are facing some difficult changes in our world, and I hope people can identify that there are opportunities to pivot and take part in making things better.”

Love explained that each art piece invites the viewer to think about the world they want to live in, and suggests they scan coordinating QR codes that connect to available resources. “For instance,” she said, “I can ask people through an artistic experience in color what they prefer the sky to look like. Bright blue, or smokey grey. I hope that the reality of that will make them want to find out more about air quality and how it can be better.”

“Art has proven to be a great translator of thoughts and feelings,” said Luther Richert, MHALA’s chief service officer, South County. “We welcome opportunities like this to reach people on a different level and provide hope by demonstrating how they can be part of the solution.”

There are multiple special events enhancing The Social Pivot.

June 15, 2-5 PM Opening Day Reception

Reception and conversation with Love, and staff from MHALA and the Arts Council of Long Beach.

June 22, 2-5 PM Music of the Times

A discussion about listening to music and how songs reflect the social conscious of the times. Participants can bring songs to discuss.

June 27, 4-6 PM Community Conversation

A panel of expert guests will speak about climate change, COVID-19, and social justice.

June 28, 4-6 PM Closing Reception

An evening of music, refreshments, and conversation.

The exhibit and all the events are completely free, with two-hour complimentary parking. Mosaic is open from 11 AM until 6 PM, Thursday through Sunday.

MHALA and Love were partnered through a California Creative Corps program grant from the Arts Council for Long Beach. This activity is funded in part by the California Arts Council, a state agency.

About MHALA Mental Health America of Los Angeles (MHALA) has been a pioneer in mental health service, advocacy, innovation, and training for a century, working to ensure that people with mental health needs achieve meaningful, healthy lives in their communities.

MHALA is among the largest and most comprehensive nonprofit mental health agencies in Los Angeles County. The agency supports over 19,000 low-income and no-income individuals annually with integrated services. MHALA achieves impact in the areas of mental and physical healthcare, homelessness and housing, supported employment, and wellness and financial services, with special programs for Veterans and transition-age youth.

MHALA also provides training programs for individuals joining the behavioral health workforce and for the larger community around mental health issues. Learn more at www.mhala.org.

About Rhonda Love Rhonda Love is a recognized artist and producer based in Long Beach, Calif., with a focus on digital and mixed media. She earned her distinction as a graduate with honors from both California State University, Los Angeles, and University of California, Los Angeles, where she studied tv/film and entertainment management. Rhonda's artistic eye has garnered recognition and partnerships from esteemed institutions such as the Arts Council for Long Beach, California Arts Council, the City of Long Beach, California State University, Long Beach, and several other organizations. To learn more about Rhonda Love visit at www.rhondalove.com