"Phoenix Rising" by A. Laura Brody

Sponsored by the Arts & Culture Commission

"Phoenix Rising" is a room-sized robe made from discarded, unwanted clothing donations left over from the LA wildfires.

Phoenix Rising is a room-sized robe made from discarded, unwanted clothing donations left over from the LA wildfires created by artist and curator A. Laura Brody. These clothes are cut into irregular shapes and sewn into a garment with a room-sized skirt, full sleeves, and a wired collar reaching the ceiling. The phoenix is a symbol of rebirth through fire, which is Brody’s hope for Southern California and around the country - that we may rise after destruction and shine anew.  

A. Laura Brody has 30 years of experience as a costume crafts person, designer, and maker. She has made costumes for LMFAO, the Black Eyed Peas, and Rhianna, among others. Brody is also the founder and curator of Opulent Mobility, an international exhibit that celebrates disability in all its forms. She turns wheelchairs, walkers, and mobility scooters into works of art and transforms reclaimed materials, giving them new lives.

This exhibition is part of the 2026 Hyper SoCal initiative, which brings awareness to nonprofit and municipal art venues supporting working artists in Southern California. 

This temporary art installation is generously sponsored by the Glendale Arts & Culture Commission through funding from the Urban Art Program, and support from Glendale Library, Arts & Culture, Glendale Community Services & Parks, and the Adams Hill Neighborhood Association.

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