Carson, California, incorporated as a city in Los Angeles County on February 20th, 1968. The city is the youngest municipality in the South Bay region and rightfully sloganed the "Future Unlimited." It is home to some of LA’s staples, such as California State University at Dominguez Hills and the Goodyear Blimp. In addition to our blue and yellow, airship, sky-neighbor reminding us to have a ‘good year’ all year long, and unbeknownst to many LA natives and visitors alike, Carson is also home to many local and underground artists, several art-related attractions, and delicious and exciting new restaurants.
Over the course of the next few posts, essenceLA will be exploring the well paved streets of Carson, and while trying not to get lost in the numerous blindingly white and gray scaled, commercial factory establishments, we will discover what to do and see here on the scene from the calm, earth-toned city streets to well manicured and flat campus of Cal State Dominguez Hills. This quiet, suburban city has some hidden gems to explore, as well as residents who are involved in making art that speaks to our generation. We will explore what is it's like growing up in here through the eyes of Carson bred photographer and clothing designer, Dareon Grace. Also to honor an urban millennial custom of indulging in craft beers and small plates, we will eat, drink, and hopefully be merry at the new Phantom Carriage brewery (INSERT LINK HERE). This quiet retreat is filled with bright green trees and strip malls, containing popular chain stores and restaurants. It is a very culturally diverse neighborhood that is bordered by Compton, Torrance and Long Beach.. It is a prime example of a Los Angeles dwelling that harbors unique artists and their artistic and cultural movements. Carson is simple and charming, and is one of those rare, residential areas of Los Angeles that isn’t taken over by apartment buildings. Although it lacks grand murals and elaborate sculptures, the true, endless art innovations are possessed by its inhabitants, who personify its individuality within the diverse neighborhoods of Los Angeles. We look forward to exploring the “future unlimited” and sharing it all with you.
The photos featured in this article were taken during a day trip we took to the Carson area, roaming the streets and snapping pictures with our phones as we went.
To start you off, here is some music my local Carson rapper, Jelani Sipho. Hit 'play' below or click here to check out some more of his work.
