2024-12-22T11:14:15-05:00 https://archinect.com/news/article/106658484/why-artists-want-to-preserve-church-tied-to-l-a-s-chicano-movement Justine Testado 2014-08-18T13:47:00-04:00 >2014-08-28T10:34:44-04:00 <img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/ag/agi2dqa357amkxgf.jpg?fit=crop&auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1200" border="0" /><em><p>Certainly, it's a minor miracle that Epiphany wasn't gutted at some point in its long life to make way for late 20th-century design nightmares such as drop ceilings and wood paneling. But more significantly the church represents an interesting period in Southern California history.</p></em><br /><br /><p>The Church of the Epiphany was an iconic meeting spot for activist groups throughout the 20th century -- including Cesar Chavez, who gave talks there -- and continues to be a valuable community space today. After a 2011 art auction to preserve the aging church, a second benefit auction is currently being held by an Angeleno arts group in support of the Epiphany Conservation Trust until August 23 to raise more funds for additional restoration needs. Restoration will be done by L.A. architecture firm Escher GuneWardena.</p>