CHULA VISTA, Calif. (FOX 5/KUSI) -- Chula Vista leaders unveiled a new cultural arts center where not only will the public get to enjoy the new property, but local artists will benefit from an artist in residence program.

"A residency, it’s a kind of like a dream come true," said German Rojas.

Rojas is one of the first artists to set up shop in “Casa Casillas.”

As city leaders celebrated the grand opening, Rojas is relishing the opportunity to focus on his art.

"In San Diego it's super expensive just to support yourself and you have to work so much sometimes your passions kind of disappear," he said.

The center’s artist in residence program offers local talent not only a space to create, but also a monthly $1,000 stipend for six months at a time.

"I think it is pretty rare and I actu

See Full Page