This framed piece with the text "I get lost in the Honesty" (2018) by Kate DeCiccio was created as part of the embRACE L.A. initiative. The piece is made of paper cuts & water color. The artist cut the images out of paper that she had painted first. DeCiccio wanted them to show some clarity amidst colors that feel bruised. embRACE to DeCiccio was an experience where people got to share about deep pain and be heard and affirmed. There were many moments of true clarity when she could see people really hearing each other.

embRACE L.A. is an initiative aimed at unifying Angelenos and empowering communities through a citywide conversation about race and racism challenging and changing inequities. Launched by Los Angeles City Council President Herb Wesson and Councilmember Mitch O'Farrell the initiative seeks to foster understanding, healing and growth throughout L.A.

embRACE L.A.'s multidimensional approach focuses on changing narratives, building relationships and advancing public policy solutions. Through a wide-variety of programs and strategies, the initiative is an unprecedented partnership between government, organizations and residents.

Oakland based artist Kate Deciccio's work is driven by her interests in authentic story telling, community building and the power of counter narratives. She thinks making art on behalf of deconstructing the prison industrial complex is one of the best things we can do to heal our communities. She conducts arts education for young people as a tool for coping, improving self-esteem, developing confidence and connection. Murals have become a cornerstone of her practice because they can transform spaces to better reflect the strength and identity of a community and serve as a modality for truth telling, resistance & celebration.