It’s not often that a girl gets to witness greatness. In the short time I’ve known Loco, though, I have.
Helen Armstrong, Loco’s longest running Editor-in-Chief, is a silhouette of who I wish to be. She’s passionate about writing (not only her own, but yours too) yet organized enough that she doesn’t get too lost in the excitement of leading a team. Most importantly, she made the rest of the staff feel heard and important. In other words, she made us feel like people. People who matter.
So it’s only fitting that this issue is called Portrait Mode. It, too, is an ode to others.
When I looked at her previous Letters from the Editor for inspiration today, I noticed that, because she made such an effort to praise other people’s work, her own pieces were rarely given the attention they deserve. So in this Letter, I encourage you to check out Helen’s latest contributions. My personal favorite is “Thanks, Google,” where she discusses the new Arts and Culture App and how it seems to think that she resembles stiff, white men (her words, not mine!). I’m downloading the app once I finish writing this.
It’s with similar people-oriented spirit that Allie recorded deep thoughts from Arcadia students in her video, Allora interviewed art museum attendees and Eric found out more about the people behind this year’s Academy Award nominees for Best Picture. We are already continuing in her footsteps.
So anyway, loyal reader, consider this issue an important one. Even if you prefer Auto Rotate for your phone’s display orientation, I promise that Portrait Mode is worth the read. Here’s to all who have made Loco a snapshot of success.
