Local artist/historian passes away
By Joann Groff joann@theacorn.com

Carlos Lacamara

A memorial service is planned for Sat., June 16 to honor the life of Carlos Lacamara, a longtime Calabasas resident and artist who was dedicated to the study and revival of the city.

Lacamara married Adria, an opera singer and model, more than 50 years ago. After the fall of the Fulgencio Bautista regime in Cuba, the couple fled to Washington, D.C., with their two young children, Carlos Jr. and Laura.

Despite his limited knowledge of English, he brought his portfolio to National Geographic magazine and was hired as an artist and photographer. After he retired, the Lacamaras decided to move to California. After studying a map, Adria decided on Calabasas.

A history buff, Lacamara had done research overseas and at the University of Cuba and the Bancroft Library. His desire to learn more about his surroundings continued after the move to Calabasas.

"Once in Calabasas he became fascinated with its history and began painting a series of scenes about California history," said his friend Robin Mitchell.

"He dedicated many years to researching the history of Calabasas and of California," Adria Lacamara said.

Lacamara designed an advertisement for the Malibu Canyon Apartments, where they lived, and painted what would become the official Calabasas picture of the Juan Bautista de Anza Encampment. He went on to become the official artist for the Calabasas Anza Heritage Association.

The couple performed in many productions of "Anza en Calabazas- 1776," most recently in February of this year. Lacamara and former mayor Dennis Washburn were both awarded plaques commemorating their service in the Calabasas Anza Heritage Association.

When Lacamara became ill, the family moved to Santa Monica to be closer to relatives. He died May 30.

The memorial service will be held on what would have been Adria and Carlos' 51st wedding anniversary. Carlos Jr. has planned a celebration highlighting his father's life and showcasing his paintings. The service will be held at 2 p.m. at the Hayworth Theatre, 2509 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles.

Adria Lacamara said guests can look forward to talking and sharing food with the couple's many friends and viewing a slide show of reflections on Lacamara's life.

In addition to his wife and children, Lacamara is survived by three grandchildren, Lucas Lacamara, Diego Lacamara and Analisa Bogotch.