Late Friday afternoon, the community oriented art and music space The Smell, learned that the owners of their building, L&R Group of Companies, without warning posted demolition notices on their space as well as many neighbouring businesses. They aren’t even sure how imminent this demolition is, or how much time they have to continue to operate.
Since Saturday, they’ve received an outpouring of support, from people sharing memories, lodging protests, taking personal action and initiative, to offers assistance and advice. Volunteers met over the weekend and decided that it is vital to the overall cultural well-being of Los Angeles, that The Smell continue to exist and to move forward.
They’ve launched a Gofundme campaign to raise money to take on this fight, and if necessary, to raise the capital required to purchase a new location. Details are posted on their website about how the community can help and get involved – both financial and otherwise.
They also ask that everyone take the time to sign a petition and share testimonials that we can present to the building owners and the city – the more signatures and testimonials, the better.
Watch the video for Miko Mika’s I Got A Lot (New New New) below, who regularly played The Smell back in the day.
All upcoming shows, petition, and gofundme infomation is available at thesmell.org
