Hecho a Mano
Hedy Torres
Opening Reception, Saturday, April 5th, 5 - 8pm
April 5 – April 26, 2025
LAUNCH Gallery
170 S. La Brea Ave. #202
Los Angeles, CA 90036
LAUNCH Gallery is proud to present solo exhibitions by Cindy Craig and Hedy Torres whose work challenges common prejudices, labels and stereotypes. At a time when prevailing headwinds attempt to diminish the hard work, vital importance and human rights of women and immigrants, Cindy and Hedy elevate these vital populations through their poignant, beautiful and often humorous paintings and mixed media creations. This exhibition is a raucous celebration of identity through new works demonstrating originality, complexity and thoughtful reflection.
Hedy Torres, is an artist dedicated to shedding light on the experiences of immigrants and street vendors in the United States. Through her artistic practice, she challenges prevailing prejudices, labels, and stereotypes that have historically marginalized this community that is dear to her. She aims to celebrate these workers and their unique and invaluable contributions to society, economy, and culture.
My current artistic practice is a tribute to the lives of street vendors, manifested through oil portraits and depictions of hands on canvas, steel cooking tools, paper, and other mediums. The choice to paint either portraits or hands in action allows me to capture a unique moment in the lives of vendors – one that often goes unnoticed by those being served. For the backgrounds of the portraits, I employ a variety of tools, including stencils, markers, and carefully affixed signs, crafting a visual journal of personal stories, experiences, and memories. In pieces featuring objects like tortilla makers or steel trays, the surface serves as an homage to the moment captured on it. Through my artistic expression, I aim to contribute to a broader understanding and appreciation of the diverse stories and contributions of immigrants and street vendors, fostering a connection between the viewer and the subjects portrayed in my work. H.T.
About the artist:
Hedy Torres is a Mexican-born artist currently based in Los Angeles, CA. She immigrated to the United States in 2006, overcoming numerous challenges to pursue her passion for art. Having worked as a street vendor during her early years here, she is profoundly influenced by the struggles and stories of immigrants and street vendors, which now form the core of her artistic exploration. Hedy’s work also extends to the broader immigrant experience, aiming to highlight the often overlooked narratives of marginalized communities.
Hedy holds a Master of Arts degree with an emphasis on Painting and Drawing from California State University, Northridge. Some creative accomplishments include several solo exhibitions, such as Serve Somebody at Seis Gallery (2023) and Soy, De Aquí Y Allá (I Am from Here and There) at Olympic Club in Santa Monica (2023). Hedy is a grantee artist for Eastside Art Initiative (2025), and both the California Arts Council & The Center of Cultural Power, and the JarriTODOS Artist Grant, She has participated in group exhibitions at prestigious venues such as Charlie James Gallery, Brea Gallery, and LA Lakers' In the Paint program with Band of Vices Gallery.
LAUNCH LA believes exposure to the arts enhances quality of life and strengthens community for all through the shared appreciation of creative expression in all its forms and hybrids. LAUNCH LA is passionate about providing all artists regardless of background, race, color, creed or sexual orientation with quality opportunities to present themselves and their creations that reflect our times to curious and enthusiastic audiences at our Gallery and at important happenings throughout Los Angeles County.
LAUNCH LA recognizes our presence on Tovaangar, the unceded ancestral lands of the Gabrielino-Tongva people who are its rightful caretakers and whose connection to the land. Water, and culture we benefit.