Description
This is a collection of approximately 600
color slides of Chicano / Raza oriented murals primarily situated in
East Los Angles were photographed by Nancy Tovar in the 1970s.
Researchers who would like to indicate errors of fact or omissions in
this finding aid can contact the research center at
www.chicano.ucla.edu
Background
Nancy Van Lauderback Tovar grew up in Chino, CA where she attended
local schools for her formative studies, eventually graduating from
UCLA. Following graduation, she joined the staff of the Los Angeles
graphics powerhouse: Saul Bass Associates, later named Bass/Yaeger. This
agency was internationally known for creating iconic logos and packaging
for Hollywood's major motion pictures, airlines, telephone, and food
industries. After an illustrious 40-year career she retired as Vice
President and Director of Production. Ms. Tovar was an active member of
the Vestry for the Episcopal Church of the Epiphany located in the Los
Angeles neighborhood of Lincoln Heights. She was a creative force
organizing classes that produced artistic banners, streamers, posters,
and urban photography that reflected the Mexican heritage of the
community. As an activist, Ms. Tovar was also a participant and
supporter of the 1970 Chicano Moratorium. She wrote several books
including: Diary of a Ruko (her husband's journey as a civil rights
activist and WWII Veteran), The Parks Family Home in Chino, Tales from
the Tovar Garden, as well as journals of her life in the barrio and her
personal battle with cancer. Ms. Tovar lost this battle and passed away
on March 13, 2010. The photographs in this collection represent her
passion for documenting art and life in Los Angeles, and her commitment
to the struggle of la Raza.
Restrictions
For students and faculty researchers of UCLA, other researchers and
univesities, all others by permission only. Copyright has not been
assigned to the Chicano Studies Research Center. All requests for
permission to publish or quote from manuscripts must be submitted in
writing to the Archivist and/or the Librarian at the Chicano Studies
Research Center Library. Permission for publication is given on behalf
of the UCLA Chicano Studies Research Center as the owner of the physical
items and is not intended to include or imply permission of the
copyright holder, which must also be obtained.