Cindy Escarcega’s photography combines her personal experiences with her advocacy for social justice, capturing the nuanced stories of L.A.’s diverse communities. Raised on the borders of Gardena, Compton, and the Harbor Area, Cindy’s work is deeply influenced by the systemic oppression and social inequities she witnessed growing up, particularly during the L.A. Riots of 1992. Using visual storytelling as a catalyst for activism, her work is documenting the shifting landscape and intersectional cultures of our surroundings.

Her artistic journey began with disposable Kodak 35mm cameras as she captured her community’s struggles and triumphs. Cindy’s battle with self-doubt and acceptance reflects the broader societal tensions of privilege and marginalization she explores through her lens. Committed to sparking change, Cindy aims to preserve fleeting moments of everyday life overshadowed by capitalist expansion.

Cindy holds a G.E.D., a B.A. in Speech Language Pathology from CSULB, and a M.A. in Gerontology from USC, focusing on the environmental and social health impacts. Currently, she is capturing film stills for a Sundance Film Festival documentary about Watts, leads “My Picture Project” — a youth workshop using photography for healing and self-expression, and is a proud mother of four.