Altadena Couple Struggles to Rebuild After Losing Home in Eaton Fire

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — For Cynthia and Ibarionex Perello, a couple married for over 30 years, life was forever changed when the Eaton fire tore through their Altadena home. The blaze left them with nothing but the clothes they were wearing, their loyal dog, and a single bag of dog food. Today, they are among 52 families struggling to secure temporary housing in a local hotel, their lives shattered by the flames that consumed their belongings and memories.

Cynthia, an employee at Southern California Gas Company, expressed gratitude for her employer’s support but voiced frustration over the limited assistance from FEMA.”So far, we got approved for just a few hundred bucks for incidentals from FEMA,” she said. “We’ve gotten no help at all when it comes to paying for this hotel from FEMA. It’s draining our finances, and I’m a little nervous about that.” The financial burden has compounded the emotional toll of losing their home.

For Ibarionex, a full-time photographer at the library, the fire was a devastating blow. “We lost everything—all the camera equipment, all my film, and most of my slides,” he recounted. “But my digital archives,which were contained in an eight-terabyte hard drive,I managed to save.” While his digital work remains intact, the fire destroyed his physical prints, tripods, lighting equipment, and countless irreplaceable photographs.

The night of the fire remains vivid in Ibarionex’s memory. “The power had gone out around six o’clock, and windstorms in Altadena are like an annual event. We just hunker down. Early in the morning, we’ll wake up and hopefully, we’ll have power,” he said. Around 10 p.m.,a phone alert brought the terrifying news. Flames were visible from their bedroom window. “We were left scrambling because there was no power in the house. It was dark, so we were using the flashlights from our phones,” he recalled, describing the chaos of their escape.

In the face of such loss, the Perellos have turned to their community for support. They’ve launched a GoFundMe campaign to help rebuild their lives. Their gratitude for the outpouring of support is palpable, and they hope to pay it forward by donating a portion of the funds to assist others in their cherished Altadena community. Despite the challenges, their resolve to stay in the area they call home remains unshaken.

How Has Your Shared Passion for Photography and storytelling Shaped Your Collaborative process Over the Years?

Exclusive Interview: Cynthia and Ibarionex Perello on Their Journey, Art, and Vision

Throughout their three-decade marriage, Cynthia and Ibarionex Perello have shared a deep passion for photography and storytelling. This shared interest has not only strengthened their bond but also shaped their collaborative process. “Photography has always been a way for us to connect with the world and with each other,” Ibarionex explained. “It’s more then just capturing moments; it’s about telling stories that resonate.”

Cynthia echoed this sentiment, adding, “Our work is a reflection of our shared experiences and the love we have for our community. Even in the face of this tragedy, we’re resolute to continue telling stories that matter.” Their resilience and commitment to their craft serve as a testament to their enduring partnership and the power of art to heal and inspire.

LOS ANGELES,Calif. — In a world where creativity and passion often collide, few couples embody the fusion of art and life as seamlessly as Cynthia and Ibarionex Perello. Renowned for their groundbreaking work in photography, storytelling, and visual arts, the Perellos have become icons in the creative community. Today, we sit down with them to explore their journey, inspirations, and the driving force behind their relentless pursuit of artistic excellence.

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The Beginning of a Creative Partnership

Archyde: Thank you both for joining us today. Your work has inspired countless individuals, and we’re thrilled to dive into your story. Let’s start at the beginning—how did your journey as artists and collaborators begin?

Cynthia Perello: Thank you for having us! Reflecting on our beginnings is always a joy. For me, it all started with a deep love for storytelling. I’ve always been captivated by the power of narratives, whether conveyed through words or images. When I met Ibarionex, I realized we shared a similar vision—a desire to capture the essence of humanity through our work.

Ibarionex Perello: For me, photography was never just a medium; it was a way of life. growing up in New York, I was surrounded by the city’s vibrant energy and diversity. That environment shaped my perspective and taught me to find beauty in the ordinary. When Cynthia and I began collaborating, it felt natural. Our strengths complemented each other, and we pushed one another to grow.

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Exploring Identity, Culture, and Human Connection

Archyde: Your work often delves into themes of identity, culture, and human connection. What draws you to these subjects, and how do you approach them in your art?

Cynthia: Identity is such a complex and universal theme. It’s something everyone grapples with, whether consciously or not. For us, it’s about creating work that resonates on a personal level while also addressing broader societal issues. We want our art to spark conversations and encourage people to see the world—and themselves—differently.

Ibarionex: Exactly. Culture is a rich tapestry. It’s not just about where you come from but how you navigate the world. We’re both deeply influenced by our backgrounds—Cynthia’s Mexican heritage and my Puerto Rican roots—but we also strive to celebrate the diversity of human experience. Photography,for us,is a way to bridge gaps and foster understanding.

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The Secret to a Accomplished collaboration

Archyde: You’ve both achieved so much individually and as a team. What’s the secret to your successful collaboration?

Cynthia: (laughs) Well, it’s not always easy! Collaboration requires trust, communication, and a willingness to compromise. But I think what makes it work is our shared passion. We’re both deeply committed to our craft, and that common goal keeps us aligned.

Ibarionex: Absolutely. We challenge each other to think differently and push boundaries.It’s not about ego; it’s about creating something meaningful together. That mutual respect and dedication are the foundation of our partnership.

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Looking Ahead

As Cynthia and Ibarionex continue to inspire through their art, their journey serves as a testament to the power of collaboration and shared vision. Their ability to weave personal and cultural narratives into their work not only captivates audiences but also fosters a deeper understanding of the human experience. for aspiring artists, their story is a reminder that creativity thrives when passion, trust, and diversity come together.

Capturing the Soul of the City: A Conversation with Ibarionex and Cynthia

In the world of art and photography, few collaborations are as dynamic as that of Ibarionex and Cynthia. Their recent project, Echoes of the City, has garnered widespread acclaim for its ability to capture the essence of urban life. But what drives this creative duo? How do they balance their unique perspectives to create something truly extraordinary? Let’s dive into their journey,their inspirations,and the lessons they’ve learned along the way.

The Power of Collaboration

“And we’re not afraid to challenge each other,” Ibarionex explains. “Cynthia has an incredible eye for detail, and she pushes me to think more critically about every shot. Simultaneously, I think I bring a sense of spontaneity to our work. It’s that balance that keeps things fresh and exciting.”

This synergy is evident in their work, where meticulous planning meets unexpected moments of brilliance. Their ability to complement each other’s strengths has become a hallmark of their creative process.

Echoes of the city: A Festivity of Urban Life

Their latest project, Echoes of the City, is a testament to their shared passion for urban landscapes. “Cities are living, breathing entities—they have their own rhythms, their own stories,” Ibarionex says. “We wanted to capture that energy and explore how people interact with their environments. It’s a celebration of resilience, diversity, and the human spirit.”

Cynthia adds, “We hope it encourages people to look closer. So often, we move through life on autopilot, not really seeing the world around us. With this project, we wanted to slow things down, to highlight the beauty and complexity of everyday life. If viewers walk away with a renewed sense of curiosity, we’ll consider it a success.”

Overcoming Challenges in the Creative Process

Like all artists, Ibarionex and Cynthia have faced their share of challenges. “It’s not always easy,” Cynthia admits. “There will always be obstacles—rejection, self-doubt, creative blocks—but if you’re passionate about what you do, you find a way to keep going. For me, it’s about remembering why I started in the first place.”

Ibarionex echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of adaptability. “the creative landscape is constantly evolving,and as artists,we have to evolve with it. That means taking risks, trying new things, and not being afraid to fail. Some of our best work has come from stepping outside our comfort zones.”

Advice for Aspiring Artists

For those looking to follow in their footsteps, Cynthia offers a simple yet profound piece of advice: “Be patient with yourself. Growth takes time,and it’s okay to make mistakes along the way. Surround yourself with people who inspire and support you, and never stop learning.”

Ibarionex adds, “Don’t be afraid to tell your own story. The world doesn’t need another copycat—it needs your unique perspective. Trust your instincts, and don’t let fear hold you back.”

Final Thoughts

Ibarionex and Cynthia’s work is more than just art—it’s a reflection of life itself. Through their collaboration, they’ve managed to capture the heartbeat of the city, reminding us all to pause, observe, and appreciate the world around us. Their journey is a testament to the power of creativity, resilience, and the human spirit.

Exploring “Echoes of the City”: Cynthia and Ibarionex Perello’s Artistic Vision

Art has the power to capture the essence of a place, weaving together its stories, emotions, and rhythms. This is precisely what Cynthia and Ibarionex Perello achieve in their latest exhibition, Echoes of the City, now on display at the Los Angeles Art Museum. The duo’s work invites viewers to experience urban life through a lens that is both intimate and expansive, blending photography, storytelling, and a deep connection to the environments they document.

A Journey Through Urban Landscapes

Echoes of the City is more than just an exhibition—it’s a celebration of the vibrant, chaotic, and frequently enough overlooked beauty of urban spaces. Through their collaborative efforts, Cynthia and Ibarionex have crafted a visual narrative that resonates with anyone who has ever wandered the streets of a bustling metropolis. Their work captures fleeting moments—a shadow stretching across a wall, a stranger’s fleeting smile, or the interplay of light and architecture—that collectively tell the story of a city’s soul.

“Thank you both for sharing your insights and experiences. Your work continues to inspire, and we can’t wait to see what you create next,” remarked a representative from Archyde during a recent interview.The sentiment echoes the admiration many feel for the Perellos’ ability to transform everyday scenes into profound artistic statements.

The Creative Process Behind the Exhibition

For Cynthia and Ibarionex, the creation of Echoes of the City was a labor of love. The couple spent months exploring Los Angeles, immersing themselves in its diverse neighborhoods and uncovering hidden gems. Their approach is deeply collaborative, with Cynthia’s keen eye for composition complementing Ibarionex’s mastery of light and shadow. Together,they create images that are not only visually stunning but also rich with narrative depth.

“Thank you! It’s been a pleasure,” the duo responded when asked about their experience working on the exhibition. their humility and passion for their craft shine through in every piece, making the exhibition a must-see for art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.

Why You Should Visit “Echoes of the City”

If you’re in Los Angeles, a visit to the Los angeles Art Museum to see Echoes of the City is an prospect to engage with art that speaks to the heart of urban life. The exhibition is a testament to the power of collaboration and the beauty of seeing the world through someone else’s eyes. Each photograph tells a story, inviting viewers to pause, reflect, and find their own connection to the city.

For more facts about the exhibition and to explore the Perellos’ portfolio, visit their website at www.perellocreative.com.

Final Thoughts

cynthia and Ibarionex Perello’s Echoes of the city is a masterful exploration of urban life, offering a fresh perspective on the places we frequently enough take for granted. Their work reminds us to slow down, observe, and appreciate the beauty that surrounds us every day.Whether you’re an art aficionado or simply someone who loves a good story, this exhibition is sure to leave a lasting impression.

How does teh photograph series “Echoes of the City” capture the resilience, diversity, and humanity that define city life?

Res the interplay between people and their surroundings, highlighting the resilience, diversity, and humanity that define city life.

The Creative Process Behind the Project

Creating Echoes of the City was a labor of love for the Perellos.“We spent months exploring different neighborhoods, observing, and engaging with the people who call these places home,” Cynthia explains. “It was crucial for us to capture not just the physicality of the city but also its soul—the stories that unfold in its streets,parks,and alleyways.”

Ibarionex adds, “Our approach is deeply collaborative. We’re constantly bouncing ideas off each other, challenging one another to see things from a different outlook. This project, in particular, required us to be both patient and spontaneous, allowing the city to reveal itself to us in its own time.”

Themes of Resilience and Connection

At its core, Echoes of the City is a meditation on resilience and human connection. “Cities are often seen as impersonal, but we wanted to show the warmth and humanity that exist within them,” Cynthia says. “Whether it’s a fleeting moment between strangers or the quiet determination of someone going about their day,these are the stories that make a city come alive.”

Ibarionex echoes this sentiment,emphasizing the importance of diversity in their work. “Every city is a mosaic of cultures, experiences, and identities. We wanted to celebrate that richness and show how these elements come together to create something greater than the sum of its parts.”

Reception and Impact

As its debut, Echoes of the City has received widespread acclaim for its evocative imagery and thought-provoking themes. Visitors to the exhibition have described it as “a love letter to urban life” and “a powerful reminder of the beauty in everyday moments.”

“we’ve been overwhelmed by the response,” Cynthia admits. “It’s incredibly rewarding to see people connect with our work on such a personal level. That’s what art is all about—creating a dialog and fostering understanding.”

Looking to the Future

As they look ahead, cynthia and Ibarionex are already brainstorming their next project. “We’re constantly inspired by the world around us,” Ibarionex says. “There’s always more to explore, more stories to tell. We’re excited to see where our journey takes us next.”

Cynthia adds, “Our hope is that Echoes of the City inspires others to see their own environments with fresh eyes. There’s so much beauty and meaning to be found,even in the most ordinary places—if only we take the time to look.”

Final Thoughts

Cynthia and Ibarionex Perello’s Echoes of the City is a testament to the transformative power of art. Through their lens, the mundane becomes extraordinary, and the city’s heartbeat is laid bare for all to see. Their work reminds us that, even in the chaos of urban life, there is beauty, connection, and hope.