Uncovering the JJU Community: A Look into the Artists’ Utopia in Altadena
It was a hidden gem, nestled in the foothills of Altadena, a place that seemed like a relic from a bygone era. The artist collective known as JJU, or John Joyce University, was a haven for creative souls looking to share their passion for art and community. But all that changed in a single night of terror when the Eaton fire ravaged the compound, leaving behind a trail of destruction.
A Community United by Art and Togetherness
John Joyce, the 77-year-old carpenter who had called JJU home for 26 years, was the heart and soul of the community. He welcomed artists of all kinds into the compound, from composers to sculptors, painters to poets. Together, they shared their art studios, supplies, and knowledge, creating a vibrant space where creativity thrived.
Joyce spoke fondly of the communal dinners in the grand dining room, the walls adorned with art from former residents, and the spirit of togetherness that permeated every corner of JJU. For him, individualism was a myth, and the true beauty lay in the connections forged through art and community.
A Haven for Misfits and Artists
Susannah Mills, a painter who called JJU home for a decade, shared her experience of finding a sense of belonging in the compound. With Joyce’s help, she settled into her converted garage studio, surrounded by fellow artists who shared her passion for creativity and companionship. The low living expenses gave her the freedom to pursue her art and work as an end-of-life guide, knowing that she was part of a supportive community that cared for each other.
Mills described JJU as a misfit community, a place where people without families found a home among kindred spirits. Dogs and cats roamed freely, artists worked side by side, and love and support were abundant. The sense of safety and belonging was palpable, a rare treasure in a world that often felt cold and indifferent.
Rebuilding from the Ashes
The devastating Eaton fire not only destroyed JJU but also claimed the nearby Zorthian Ranch, another artists’ collective with a rich history of creativity and community. Despite the loss, there is a glimmer of hope on the horizon as former residents of JJU and Zorthian Ranch come together to rebuild.
John Joyce, the last resident of JJU on that fateful night, recounted the horror of watching the flames consume everything he held dear. But in the midst of chaos, there is a sense of resilience and determination to rise from the ashes. Text chains buzz with ideas of using shipping containers as living quarters, a symbol of the community’s commitment to rebuilding and regaining what was lost.
In the face of tragedy, the spirit of JJU lives on, a beacon of hope for artists and dreamers seeking a place to call home. Despite the devastation, the bonds forged in the fires of adversity remain unbroken, a testament to the power of art, community, and the indomitable human spirit.