Lin Evola-Smidt has created exceptional upcycled artwork in her pursuit to reduce gun violence in Los Angeles. Horrified by gun homicide statistics during the 90s, Evola-Smidt decided to devote her art to providing symbols of hope and beauty. While working with L.A. communities in attempts to encourage people to relinquish their guns, she came up with a new and prosperous way to utilize them. When a community member would voluntarily turn in their gun(s) to local law enforcement, she would then begin the process of melting down the material. She proceeded to shape this raw metal into elegant statues of angles.
Signifying the peace returned to these communities through the removal of these guns, these statues have inspired and uplifted countless people. They continue to cultivate closer knit communities in L.A., consisting of individuals who hope to cultivate an environment free of the presence of gun violence.