LEADING OUR
CHILDREN
OFF STREETS
MEET L.O.C.O.S
Javier "SPANKY" Silva- Director & Mentor
Javier "Spanky" Silva's transformation journey began with his early passion for comic books and art. From a young age, he immersed himself in the world of superheroes like Batman and Spider-Man, creating his own characters and projects. As he delved deeper into the art world, he discovered graffiti art and spray paint tagging, which opened a new avenue for his creativity.
Growing up in a family where work was the priority, Javier felt a lack of connection and togetherness. Seeking a sense of belonging, he found solace in the streets, where he made connections and explored his artistic abilities. However, this path led him towards a dangerous and self-destructive direction, as he began creating gang-related art and tattoos for fellow gang members.
In addition to his early artistic pursuits and the challenges of growing up in a family where work was the priority, Javier "Spanky" Silva's transformation story is deeply influenced by his immigrant background. Being the son of immigrant parents, Javier's family sought a better life in America, hoping for opportunities and prosperity.
However, the reality of life in America presented them with a culture shock. Racial injustice was prevalent, and as immigrants, they faced additional struggles in assimilating to a new country and its customs. The search for a sense of belonging led Javier and his peers towards gangs, which seemed to offer an immediate sense of family and belonging in their Westerly area.
Despite being deeply entrenched in this lifestyle, a life-threatening incident changed the course of Javier's life. It was a wake-up call, making him realize that he needed a new direction to heal and find purpose. He discovered a passion for writing music and found solace in the studio, surrounded by engineers and producers. Music became a powerful outlet for him to express his story and emotions.
In 2004, Javier's music career took off, and by 2008, his music was being distributed globally. Through music, tattoos, and art, he found a way to impact the culture positively. The once-taboo art of tattooing became a medium for gang members to express their love and devotion for their neighborhoods.
As he continued to grow and learn, Javier embraced new beginnings. His journey from the streets to the studio showed his resilience and determination to turn his life around. Music and art became his guiding lights, leading him away from the darkness of his past.
Javier's transformation story serves as an inspiring example of how creativity and self-expression can lead to healing and positive change. Through his music and art, he has found a sense of value and worth, turning his early beginnings of graffiti art and gang tattoos into a platform for storytelling and empowerment. Today, he stands as a beacon of hope, using his talents to impact the culture in a meaningful and uplifting way. Javier "Spanky" Silva's story is a testament to the power of art and music in bringing transformation, healing, and purpose to a once-troubled life.
Today, Javier "Spanky" Silvas stands as a beacon of hope and inspiration for all who have lost their way. His journey from darkness to light serves as a testament to the life-changing impact of art and music. Through his artistry, he continues to break down barriers and bridge the gap between different worlds, proving that transformation is possible, even in the most unlikely circumstances.
Javier's story reminds us that the human spirit is resilient and capable of transformation through the power of creativity and self-expression. Through art and music, he found his true identity and purpose, illuminating the way for others to follow in his footsteps and break free from the chains that once bound them.