Former Venice Resident, Maryjane

Maryjane is an activist, artist, poet, and documentarian. In the 1960's and 1970's, Maryjane lived in the cottage, now owned by Orson Bean and Alley Mills. Formerly redlined and protected from investment, low income residents such as Maryjane could live along the canals for as little as $75 a month. In its heyday, the strong knit community was home to artists, poets, and a convergence of hippies. The spirit of the locals was embodied during the Venice Canal Festival through handcrafted floats, artist showcases, and musical performances. Over time the redline was lifted, and banks began providing funding for investment of the canals, forcing residents like Maryjane onto the streets.

Living in Venice
When we were here these were open yards and shared houses and there were lots of children.