Endless Wellspring

Co-presented by Los Angeles Nomadic Division (LAND) and the Gabrielino-Tongva Springs Foundation, Endless Wellspring is a series of free public programs at Kuruvungna Village Springs that celebrates Tongva art and culture.

Meaning “a place where we are in the sun,” Kuruvungna is the site of a natural spring and an ancestral Tongva village in Tovaangar, present-day Los Angeles. Stewarded by the Gabrielino-Tongva Springs Foundation, the two-acres of land features ponds, gardens, and a cultural center dedicated to the life and history of the Tongva people.

In recent years, the Springs has undergone immense ecological restoration through a collective community effort to care for and maintain the sacred site. Reflecting that work, Endless Wellspring is centered around the theme of regeneration, bringing together Native artists to engage with the natural elements, ongoing life, and significant history of Kuruvungna.

From hands-on workshops to performances and garden tours, we look forward to seeing you at the Springs.

Additional details and RSVP links for each event can be found on their individual program pages in the section below.

A History of Kuruvungna

Walkthrough led by Angie Behrns with Mercedes Dorame

Saturday, June 28, 2025

11AM – 12PM

Wood Block Printing and Native Plants

Workshop led by River Tikwi Garza and Joel Garcia

Saturday, July 26, 2025

11AM – 12:30PM

Southern Californian Native Basketry and Food

Workshop led by Dr. Theresa Ambo and Abe Sanchez

Saturday, August 9, 2025

11AM – 12:30PM

Tongva Music and Instruments

Performance by Robert Dorame and family

Saturday, August 23, 2025

1PM – 3PM

In Relation with Water and Flora

Walkthrough led by Bob Ramirez and Daniel Ramirez

Saturday, September 20, 2025

11AM – 12:30PM

What the Land Holds

Workshop led by Ako Castuera and Mercedes Dorame

Saturday, September 27, 2025

11AM – 12:30PM

Endless Wellspring is organized by Mercedes Dorame, artist and Gabrielino-Tongva Springs Foundation board member, and Christopher Mangum-James, LAND deputy director, with support from artist and scholar Lili Flores Aguilar.

This series is made possible in part by the LA County Department of Arts and Culture as part of Creative Recovery LA, an initiative funded by the American Rescue Plan. Generous support provided by Art of Recovery, an initiative of the City of Santa Monica Cultural Affairs, and the West Los Angeles Sawtelle Neighborhood Council through a Neighborhood Purpose Grant.=. Special thanks to Walton Chiu.

Graphic by Jimena Gamio.