Project Description

The Florence-Firestone poster is a vibrant tribute to the neighborhood’s rich cultural history and enduring spirit. Inspired by resilience and pride, the artwork captures Florence-Firestone’s identity through symbolic imagery and vivid color. 

Towering palm trees along Florence Blvd represent the community’s strength, while cultural elements like community gardens and lowriders highlight deep-rooted traditions of family and pride. The newly built Florence Library symbolizes a commitment to knowledge and growth, reinforcing a hopeful vision for the future. 

This artwork was commissioned for Metro’s Through the Eyes of Artists poster series for display in the fleet.

Artist Statement

“With themes of love, togetherness, and progress, the artwork portrays a thriving, diverse community embracing unity as it moves forward.”

About the Artist

BUENA JOHNSON is a Los Angeles-based visual artist and instructor whose work explores the African American experience through realism and intricate pencil portraits. A Pratt Institute graduate, she has exhibited at the Laguna Art Museum, Band of Vices, and TAG Gallery. Her art reflects themes of Black history, jazz, gospel, and spirituality. 

Her work is featured in prestigious collections, including the Smithsonian, Getty Collection, and MOCA LA, and has appeared in films, TV shows, and celebrity collections like Oprah Winfrey and Queen Latifah. A dedicated educator, she taught at UCLA and works with community programs across Southern California. 

About Through the Eyes of Artists

In the tradition of celebrating transportation through colorful travel destination posters, Metro Art commissions a diverse range of Los Angeles artists to create original artworks for the Through the Eyes of Artists poster series. Established in 2003, the posters are displayed onboard Metro trains and buses.

View other works in the series.

Display year: 2025