my tribe, my carousel

captured by royel, test, topanga canyon, 2025

art by royel, 2025

beautiful carousel of local connection

today marks a pivotal moment in my journey as an artist and community builder. i've got this song, 'carousel' by wankelmut, spinning in my head like the red and gold carousel it describes, round and round, a constant reminder of the beautiful cycle of community i've found myself in.

this isn't just another reflection on music. it's the culmination of countless moments, shared experiences, and a relentless pursuit of connection that has brought me closer to my tribe—the people who make my local community pulse with energy and possibility.

i've spent endless nights with these incredible souls, watching as our collective dreams took shape in basement shows, community gardens, and impromptu street performances. like the circular motion of a carousel, we keep coming back to each other, finding strength in our continuous connection.

my tribe isn't defined by geography alone, though we share these streets and neighborhoods. we're bound by something deeper—a shared vision that transcends the ordinary. we've pushed boundaries, challenged norms, and listened closely to what each person brings to our collective rhythm.

there's something magical about building community on a local level. it's more than gathering; it's a statement of resilience, a tool for collective expression, and a testament to the power of showing up for one another day after day. round and round we go, like that carousel, supporting each other through every rise and fall.

i feel my deepest pride not in what i've accomplished alone, but in what we've created together. your trust and support have been the driving force behind every mural painted, every benefit organized, every late-night conversation that sparked a new collaborative project.

to my amazing local family, today i honor you. through you, i've learned that community isn't something you find—it's something you build, nurture, and protect. like the persistent melody of 'carousel' that stays with you long after the song ends, the impact of our connection ripples outward, touching others in ways we may never fully comprehend.

here's to breaking new ground together, to celebrating our local culture, to continuing this beautiful carousel ride of creation and connection. this moment of reflection is just the beginning. we're committed to continuing to innovate, to listen, and to create spaces that make everyone feel they truly belong.

round and round we go. and i wouldn't have it any other way.

-mitchell!