Elena Rosa is a Los Angeles-based artist who wanted to create a world of lesbian stories where people of all genders, sexualities, and identities could learn about the history of lesbian bars. She drew on photographs, writings, and interviews with former patrons and bar owners to bring L-BAR to life. Rosa sat down with Jessica Abo to discuss her online interactive salon and bar and her advice for anyone trying to create a sacred experience.

Jessica Abo: You’ve been working as an actor and artist for years and you say you’re passionate about creating different worlds. What does it have to create environments that enlighten you?

I love building environments. I like to think about our architecture and how it frames our identity. I have a particular fascination with the Byzantine…