La Maestra’s Culture and Healing through Arts (CHA) program flourishes with major art installations in the City Heights health center. In July 2011, “Rising Star” by artist Terry Hansen, a talented San Diego resident and longtime La Maestra patient renowned for his woodworking ability, is installed in the lobby. The star is made of repurposed exotic wood from around the globe, steam bent to fit the curve of the wall. In December 2011, local teens paint animal-themed murals in the pediatrics exam rooms.
In March 2013, the City of San Diego Commission for Arts and Culture unveils “Grandmother’s Kitchen/Grandfather’s Garden”, a digital sculptural installation showcasing a culinary visual history of the City Heights community, presented through the shared experiences and culturally specific stories of food. The installation, created by local community artist Lynn Susholtz funded by a gift from artist Niki de St. Phalle through Niki Charitable Art Foundation, is the first partnership of the Arts Commission with a nonprofit for long-term placement of a City-owned public artwork.
