Restoring priceless memories after the LA Fires
One year after the devastating Southern California Wildfires, communities across LA County are still processing wildfire recovery, grief, and the long process of rebuilding.
This video focuses on one specific experience within that broader story: art restoration volunteers supporting survivors of the Eaton Fire, and a profile of one single mom and young daughter navigating their loss, uncertainty, and hope.
Through these voices, we explore what comes long after the flames are out. Anxiety becomes action. Community becomes medicine. And salvaged objects—art, family heirlooms, childhood belongings—become vessels for memory, meaning, and healing.
Featuring the work of Art Recovery L.A., a grassroots collective formed in response to the fires that provides free conservation clinics for neighbors impacted by fire damage. Their work shows how caring for objects can be a powerful way of caring for people—creating space for storytelling, connection, and mental health support after disaster.
Editor April Liu
Producer/Camera Rob VanAlkemade
Many thanks to Art Recovery LA, a grassroots collective formed in response to the fires, providing free conservation advice at clinics funded by the LA County Department of Arts and Culture. Their work shows how caring for objects can be a powerful way of caring for people—creating space for storytelling, connection, and mental health support after disaster.
Los Angeles County Department of Arts and Culture
Conservation Association of Los Angeles
Balboa Art Conservation Center
The Museum of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles
Some of the many other organizations continuing to support LA wildfire survivors include:
Diaspora Groceries - culturally rooted food relief centered in dignity and care
211 LA - resource navigation for fire recovery and rebuilding
LA Regional Food Bank - ongoing food assistance for families impacted by wildfires
This story is a reminder that disaster recovery is not linear, and healing happens through community care.
Thank you to everyone continuing to show up!
