Meet Teresa Arias | Social Media Manager, Communications and Programming Director and Educator
We had the good fortune of connecting with Teresa Arias and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Teresa, what are you inspired by?
Working so closely with the community I grew up in, inspires me every day. Living in Bell (Southeast LA), I often felt as though I had to go outside of my community to find different events. Today, along with my team at SELA Art Center, we are trying to bring programming and events to the SELA region so that community members do not have to travel outside of their area, this inspires me to continue my work. I want to be able to bring and provide resources to the communities that are often left behind. SELA is full of talent that inspires, and pushes me to do my best and provide a platform where they are able to showcase their talents.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am currently a substitute teacher for LAUSD, I’ve worked for LAUSD for about 12 years now in various roles and often dabbled in the idea of becoming a full-time teacher. Although I love being an educator, there was a lot more that I wanted to do. Being a teacher is A LOT of work and I felt as though I wouldn’t be able to focus on other projects if being committed to a classroom. I graduated with a BA in Journalism and minored in Communication Studies from CSULB in 2010, since then, I’ve used my passion for writing by independently tutoring outside school hours for K-12 students, and volunteered by helping high school seniors complete their short essay answers on college applications. I love subbing and working with students, and having the extra time has allowed me to give back to my community and facilitate their process of aiming for higher education.
In March of 2022, everything felt like I was reaching a full circle. When my brother, Tetris, opened up SELA Art Center, he brought me onboard and since then, I have managed communications, programming, talent booking and social media content. I felt as though everything that I learned in college was finally being put to use! In addition, working with SELA Art Center, has opened doors for me and allowed me to create programs that benefit the community. Most recently, I hosted two college application workshops at Southeast Community Development Corporation (SCDC) in the City of Bell, and am currently hosting office hours to help students work on their college applications- at no charge.
At times it becomes overwhelming when juggling it all, but the final outcome and knowing I am helping others who have grown up in the same cities as I did, is rewarding.
I think timing is important and the universe has a way of making things happen when they are supposed to happen, I am thankful that my brother was able to reach his goals and therefore, being able to help me with mine.
There are so many organizations that are trying to help underserved communities, but it is up to us, and those with resources to make them attainable for all audiences.
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I would definitely take them to SELA Art Center for both Wednesday night and Sunday morning life drawing sessions! The artists have created a family and it is so inviting and inspiring. Artists often mingle, share tips, ideas, and most importantly, support one another. The SELA Crew (essentially a drawing club) has also grown out of the artists wanting to hangout outside of workshops and support local businesses, as they draw and have a good time. At SELA Art Center there’s also monthly sip & paints, family painting workshops, and rotating art workshops. Also, there are local spots that cannot be missed to grab a bite, Jim’s Burgers #1, Cruzita’s Deli and Cafe, Mole de los Reyes and Las Coronas Grill. For another day of fun, we’d definitely have to go to Beer Thug Brewing Co. when they are hosting a night of Rock en Español, or SELA Marketplace.
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’d like to shoutout my brother, Hector “Tetris” Arias, who has been an inspiration through his artistic work throughout Los Angeles. Tetris is known for his murals and electrical box art displays in LA, but more importantly, he has created programming to bring art to underserved communities. Since a young age, he always mentioned opening up an academy or organization that brought art programming, including college level workshops, and his love for hip hop to the community where we grew up. In March of 2022, he brought me on board for the opening of SELA Art Center in the City of Bell.
It is inspiring to know that he has been able to reach many of his goals, while being a pillar in the community. He has made art his full-time career, and opened up an art center in the community where he, along with my family, grew up in.
Instagram: selaartcenter
Image Credits
Outdoor nighttime group photo: David Hernandez All other photos taken by myself: Teresa Arias
Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
