Exhibitions
programs Saturday, January 10, 2009, 1 pm / workshop Hands on Time: A Southern California Library Presentation The Black Panther Party had an impacting role in the Civil Rights movement. Today, memories of the Black Panthers are maintained in a wide variety of formats, from websites to art exhibits, advertisements, community celebrations and fashion. Staff of the Southern California Library for Social Studies and Research explores many facets of the way the past is recalled, understood and represented. Archival material, available at the Library, will be used to examine how the stories we tell about the Black Panthers help us make sense of the present, mobilize us to act and to know what is at stake in these various representations of the past.
Of Tulips and Shadows: The Visual Metaphors of Dewey Crumpler October 9, 2008 - April 26, 2009
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This exhibition of selected works by Bay Area artist Dewey Crumpler presents paintings, sculptures, videos and installation pieces created over the last fifteen years. Crumpler’s rich iconography establishes a dialogue between European, American and African art. From Dutch floral still life to African-inspired sculpture, his surfaces are rich in subtle hue variations in both smooth and rough textures. Dynamic, almost calligraphic forms appear endowed with a unique, organic quality. Lush tulips, cell-like elements, cosmic swirls, create a multi-layered surface with an unusual depth of field. Most recently, Crumpler has included in his canvases a shadow of a collar and a hooded character that stand for a particular state of consciousness and the capacity to transcend material constraints. As a whole, these multifaceted symbols become metaphors that reflect on philosophical, emotional, social and political concepts. Crumpler’s work, filled with aesthetic formalism, escapes easy interpretations and challenges many assumptions of the postmodern era.
A Moment in Time: Bingham’s Black Panthers October 2, 2008 - April 5, 2009
Sunday, January 11, 2009 – 2 pm / workshop Linocut Workshop: Printmaking as a Tool for Social Change Black Panther Party artists often used bold graphics to spread their message, disseminated through newspapers, pamphlets, posters, buttons and bumper stickers. Artist Favianna Rodriguez teaches the traditional printing technique of the linocut and guides participants in creating their own poster. Youth and community organizers are encouraged to attend. Copies of Ms Rodriguez latest book, Reproduce and Revolt, will be available for signing. Ages 15 and up. To reserve call 213-744-2024. Saturday, January 17, 2009, 1 pm / workshop Collaging Your Vision: A Personal Journal Make your own journal and collage your unique vision using paper, paint, magazines and gold and silver foils. Sunshine Anderson leads participants in the creation of a colorful abstraction inspired by Crumpler’s Paris Sketchbooks. RSVP required: 213-744-2024.
Black Chrome September 25, 2008 - April 12, 2009 Black Chrome provides an invaluable opportunity to gain a broader understanding of the contributions African Americans have made to motorcycle culture, mechanical technology and aesthetics since World War II. Through photos, interviews, objects and motorcycles that range from choppers to drag bikes, this California focused exhibition spotlights the innovations and creativity that have significantly changed the landscape of American motorcycling and gives an in-depth glimpse into this growing and little documented segment of African American culture. The exhibition is a collaborative project funded by the Automobile Club of Southern California and Friends, the Foundation of the California African American Museum.
In 1968, under the auspices of Life magazine, photographer Howard L. Bingham and journalist Gilbert Moore began a journey to capture the activities of the Black Panther Party. From March through October, from Los Angeles to Oakland, and Berkeley to New York, Bingham’s camera immortalized moments in time with Huey P. Newton, Stokely Carmichael, Bobby Seale, Eldridge Cleaver and his wife, Kathleen Neal Cleaver, David Hilliard, and the many initiates, believers and observers.
A Dream Realized January 15, 2009- March 1, 2009 Each year CAAM has honored the life and aspirations of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. with an installation of images that depict his dreams, hard work and commitments to the betterment of all people. This year we add further dimension to the installation with photos that capture the similarities in the roads traveled by Dr. King and President-elect Barack Obama. In his life and career, Barack Obama has embraced Dr. King’s philosophies as building blocks for a new future.
This exhibition not only showcases recognizable snapshots taken during public displays, but also posed, private and unusual moments that the Panthers leaders could have only granted to a well-trusted soul. There are photos in the private spaces of the Cleaver’s apartment and the Above: title of piece, date. Howard Bingham. Panthers’ headquarters, and images of other comFront cover: title of piece, date. rades, often forgotten, whose parallel stories Dewey Crumpler. Medium? were frequently ignored. Such is the access they gave to photographer Howard Bingham, from which he created an extremely personal and priceless tribute. Bingham’s photographs reveal the energy of political education classes, conferences, public rallies, demonstrations, courthouses and jailhouses, reflecting his artistry and openness to the cause through his camera lens.
The California African American Museum is rare among smaller institutions because it is also a collecting museum. The Permanent Collection chronicles the African American journey from the West Coast of Africa to the West Coast of America. On display are artifacts that illuminate the art, history and culture of African Americans as they moved ever forward, through the Southern legacy and the Great Migration West. Each item enhances the depth of the overall collection and provides insights into the unique art and historical contributions that African Americans made in opening the Western frontier to the current cultural era.
Permanent Collection: The African American Journey West
Sunday, January 18, 2009, 11 am – 5 pm / event Target Sundays at CAAM Celebrates A Dream Realized A diverse group of artists from many backgrounds and cultures will perform music, dance and spoken word representing peoples and cultures that influenced Dr. King and those who were inspired by his words and accomplishments. This year the day includes a special recognition of the significance of Dr. King as a precursor to the election of Barack Obama as the 44th President of the United States. Monday, January 19, 2009 11 am – 5 pm / event The Kingdom Day Parade and Cake for King@CAAM— Every MLK Holiday, CAAM begins the day by participating in the annual Kingdom Day Parade. The parade route begins at Western Avenue and travels west up Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard to Crenshaw Boulevard South, ending at Vernon Avenue in Leimert Park. As in previous years, CAAM will have at least one parade car featuring special guests. CAAM’s representative will be Deputy Director Woodburn T. Schofield, Jr. Following the Parade, join us back at CAAM for a piece of our birthday “Cake for King.” These festivities are becoming a family tradition at CAAM with free cake and open exhibitions. On display will be our specially created exhibition, A Dream Realized, featuring historic images of Martin Luther King and Barack Obama. For more information, visit www.caamuseum.org or call 213.744.2132. For parade information, call 310.537.4240.
Sunday, February 8, 2009, 2 pm / film screening and discussion Behind the Blur: Examining African American Motorcycle Culture Na’il “Shayk” Karim, publisher of The Black Biker Magazine discusses black motorcycle culture and sub-culture from the World War II era to the present. The long ignored contributions of Black bikers such as Bessie Stringfield and others are revealed. Sunday, February 15, 2009, 2 pm / discussion Spirituality in Abstraction: A dialogue Between Artists Dewey Crumpler and Matthew Thomas discuss contemporary trends in abstraction, processes of conceptualization/visualization, and their personal search for spirituality as reflected in their art work. Moderated by exhibition curator Mar Hollingsworth. Saturday, February 21, 2009, 1 pm –4 pm / film screenings and discussion Multiple Film-Screenings: An Afternoon with The Panthers “Black Panther” (originally “Off the Pig” 1969, 15 min.) is as close to an official Panther film as was ever made, with historical footage of Huey P. Newton, Eldridge Cleaver and Bobby Seale. “All Power to the People! The Black Panther Party and Beyond” (2000, 115 min.) is an acclaimed award winning documentary that provides historical context for the founding of the Black Panther Party, detailing the courage and idealism of its members as well as its impact on a broad spectrum of society. Sunday, February 22, 2009, 2 pm / discussion African American Motorcycling: A Documentary Join us as filmmaker Ronald Price discusses his documentary “Free Black Horse,” the culmination of two years of nationwide research. Selected clips from the film shed light on the story of African American motorcyclists and pro vide the opportunity to hear the story in their own words. Friday, February 27, 7:00 pm / event CAAM Performance Art Evening Performance artists will have the opportunity to premiere their latest works in this new CAAM program. “Quiet As Kept: CHANGE,” written and directed by Ulysses Jenkins, (Associate Professor, Department of Studio Art and Director of African American Studies Program at U.C. Irvine) will debut as a dual performance presentation/reception hosted for the artists, scholars, art historians, curators, administrators and students convening in Los Angeles at the College Art Association’s annual conference. Saturday, February 28, 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm / book signing Howard Bingham’s Black Panthers The author will be on hand to sign his latest book, Howard Bingham’s Black Panthers.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009 – 7 am CAAM Inauguration Watch Event When then-Senator Barack Obama came to CAAM in 2006 and urged everyone to support this ‘cultural institution,’ more than 800 people came to hear him speak. It is fitting that on the historic occasion of his Inauguration as the 44th President of the United States, CAAM will host an exclusive Members Only Inauguration Watch Event. What better time to join the Museum? Become a Member Now!! RSVPs Mandatory.
Saturday, March 14 – 1pm – 2:30 pm Conversations at CAAM Arnett Hartsfield, Los Angeles’ First African American Firefighter. At nearly 90, Arnett Hartsfield vividly remembers what it was like to be a firefighter when he joined the Los Angeles Fire Department in 1940. Back then it was segregated and Black firefighters were all assigned to the same station and could not mix with their white counterparts. Hartsfield helped lead the charge to end the separation in the 50s.
Sunday, January 25, 2009, 2 pm / workshop Trick’in Out My Bike Ride your bicycle to CAAM and let local artist PABLO guide you in customizing it in a free workshop using recycled materials, found objects and your imagination to celebrate your individuality. Bring your bike and your creativity, all other materials will be provided. RSVP required: 213-744--2024
Saturday, March 21, 2009, 1 pm / discussion Living the Legacy/Lessons Learned: A Dialogue with Black Panthers, Brown Berets and Community Activists Join former Black Panther Party and Brown Beret members as well as community activists for a lively discussion with moderator Yusef Omowale, Director of the Southern California Library for Social Studies & Research. What lessons can we learn from Panthers’ strategies, resourcefulness, and cooperation? How are activist organizations remaining vigilant in their quest for social justice and equality? Some of the faces and issues have changed but the Black Panther Party furthered a tradition of radicalism that is just as relevant today as it was 40 years ago.
Sunday, February 1, 2009 – 11 am - 5 pm / event Target Sundays at CAAM In this once-a-month Sunday program, through live performances and spoken word, the diverse influences and achievements of art and culture from the African American Diaspora is celebrated. The theme is “What’s The Word.” Four Consecutive Saturdays, February 7, 14, 21, 28, 2009 / workshops African Americans, Naturally Back by popular demand! In celebration of Black History Month, enjoy a series of free workshops, offered twice per day at 12-1:30 and 2:30-3 pm. This year the theme is Earth, led by master artist Angela Briggs. To reserve call: 213-744-2133.
Gelede mask, date? Mixed media.
Saturday, February 7, 2009 – 1 pm – 3 pm Conversations at CAAM A dialogue on the role of America’s youth and the internet in the Barack Obama campaign for President with the following participants: Regina Freer Ph.D., Professor Political Science, Occidental College, Melina Abdullah Ph.D. Professor Sociology, California State University, Los Angeles. Regina and Melina are co-writing a project at UCLA’s Bunche Center on politics and are also working on a multi-media project analyzing the reaction of youth in Los Angeles to the Obama campaign. Nicole Avant worked as a fundraiser and was a pivotal force in the campaign’s outreach to young Black Hollywood. Matthew Delmont Ph.D., Assistant Professor of American Studies, Scripps College. Work focuses on the use and reaction of popular media by the Obama campaign.
Sunday, March 22, 2009, 2 pm / discussion Women in Biker Culture Hear first hand what it’s like to be female motorcyclists from the women who ride. This panel discussion examines the role of women in African American motorcycle culture and explores the myths and some of the unique challenges they face.
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Museum Notes
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CALIFORNIA AFRICAN AMERICAN MUSEUM
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January - March 2009
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Friends, the Foundation of the California African American Museum
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Friends, the Foundation of the California African American Museum
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L. Charmayne Mills, President Rev. Cecil L. Murray Joseph C. Phillips John E. Sweeney, Esq. Stanley P. Wade Stasia Cato Washington Carolyn D. Webb de Macias
Then-Senator Barack Obama said “Let me thank the California African Museum for this beautiful facility. I want to make sure everybody comes back and supports this wonderful institution—because it has wonderful exhibits and wonderful activities. This is the kind of cultural institution we all want to be supportive of.” Support CAAM Now!!
When then-Senator Barack Obama came to CAAM to sign his second book, “The Audacity of Hope,” there was something in the air. He hadn’t declared he was running for President, but Hope walked in the room with him and stood by his side as he spoke. An expanded Dream was already taking shape in our hearts and consciousness even if we had not yet realized it. There was still work to do.
CAAM State Board of Directors
When our Dr. King spoke of his Dream of the mountain top, there was a feeling in the air that he put into words, “I might not make it there with you, but we as a people will make it.” As a people, we picked up Dr. King’s Dream to cherish it, honor him, own it for ourselves and the world as he wanted us to do.
Dr. Leon Banks, Vice President Kim Curry-Evans Eric L. Frazier Kimberly Freeman Rev. Cecil L. Murray Joseph C. Phillips Carolyn D. Webb de Macias, President
Could the dreams of our ancestors ever have expanded to believe a Black man could become the leader of the Free World? Probably not. More than 100 years later, when Dr. King was urged to run, he said no. He no doubt knew it wasn’t time. But in the 40 years since hate took him from us, the time did come. It came in the shape of a young, brilliant man with a true African-American name. The feeling in the very air has been so intense, so exhilarating, that some of us are still walking around grinning. There are hardly words to describe the outpouring of emotion and joyful tears during this moment in history. But something that we must hold close to us as we march into a New America is that this Dream realized must be upheld, new dimensions to the Dream must be imagined and we must remember and honor our ancestors and our children’s futures as we hand the Dream off to them. To truly enjoy a Dream Realized is to understand there is still work to do. Happy New Year, Happy New Dreams and Happy Visits to CAAM. Charmaine Jefferson, Executive Director
The California African American Museum is a State supported institution and a partner with the 501(c)(3) non-profit organization Friends, the Foundation of the California African American Museum located in Exposition Park at 600 State Drive in Los Angeles. Open Tuesday – Saturday 10am – 5pm, and Sundays 11am - 5pm. Admission is free. Parking at 39th and Figueroa is $8.00 per vehicle. A California State Museum, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Governor. Tel (213) 744-7432. Fax (213) 744-2050. Email: info@caamuseum.org. Website: www.caamuseum.org. Museum Notes is published quarterly by the California African American Museum. Executive Editor, Charmaine Jefferson. Editor/Writer, Ruth Adkins Robinson. Design, The Blue One.
PRESORTED Standard US Postage Paid Permit No. 1619 Los Angeles, CA
Emerging First Man, 1997 Artis Lane Bronze, ceramic shell, resin
News from the Collection The California African American Museum has recently been the recipient of a life-size bronze sculpture by Artis Lane entitled Emerging First Man. This gift was made by Friends, The Foundation of the California African American Museum through the generous donations of the Annenberg Foundation and the James Irvine Foundation. One of the most striking aspects of Emerging First Man are the remnants from the casting process––fragments of the ceramic shell. When leaving these vestiges of shell and wire on the bronze, Lane materializes the concept of metamorphosis, and therefore, liberation.
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onder if our ancestors could feel something in the air in the 1860s, or did it only come to them at night in the safety of sleep—the Dream of Freedom? Certainly, when Freedom was realized, our great-grandfathers and great-grandmothers knew there was no time to be complacent. It was time to move the Dream forward. There was still work to do.
Eric Lawrence Frazier Kimberly Freeman Ellis Gordon, Jr., Treasurer Sylvia Hart Trudy Hatter Paula Madison Cynthia McClain-Hill Maddie McFadden-Lawson Charles McLurkin, Esq., VicePresident
Tiffini Bowers has joined CAAM as Museum Curator with shared responsibilities in history and education providing curatorial support for exhibitions and programs as well as supporting the supervision of the gallery educator staff. Ms Bowers received her BA from Hampton University and her MA in History- Museum Studies from the Cooperstown Graduate Program at the State University of New York at Oneonta. She also brings a wealth of experience to her job having worked at the Autry National Center’s Southwest Museum, California Science Center, and the Fenimore Art Museum, among others. Most recently, Ms. Bowers consulted for the Smithsonian: National Museum of the American Indian on an exhibition about African American and Native American identity
Dr. Leon Banks Renee C. Bizer Alice Desobry Bowens, President Susan Cole-Hill Lester Crawford Dr. Monet L. Daniels, Secretary Keith A. Drake, Shawn Farrar David A. Ford
Insights from the Permanent Collection Ms. Lee’s first exhibition for CAAM Project Showcase series was Insights from the Permanent Collection ran from 11-2-08 thru 12-14-08 and featured eleven works from artists John Riddle, Suzanne Jackson, Maren Hassinger, Ed Clark, Robert Colescott, Rozelle Sykes, Lezley Saar, Noah Purifoy and Martin Puryear. This inaugural presentation came down to make way for our annual Martin Luther King, Jr. and Black History Month exhibits. The series will return in March in honor of Women’s History month and continue through the end of 2009.
From the Director
Each year CAAM has honored the life and aspirations of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. with an installation of images that depict his dreams, hard work and commitments to the betterment of all people. Celebrate with Cake for King January 19, 2009.
Michele Elizabeth Lee joined CAAM in August 2008 as the Visual Arts Curator & Program Manager. She brings a wealth of experience as a multi-media artist, writer, curator, administrator and educator who creates and exhibits paintings, sculptures, installations, large scale earthworks and performances. Ms. Lee earned her MFA in Studio Art from the University of Southern California and her BA in Political/Cultural Studies and Studio Art from Antioch College. Ms Lee says of her new position: “CAAM is the perfect place for me because I don’t have to edit who I am; I have to engage all of my experience and training to do this job well.”
It is fitting that on the historic occasion of President-Elect Barack Obama’s Inauguration as the 44th President of the United States, CAAM will host an exclusive Inauguration Watch Event beginning at 7 a.m. for our Members Only. What better time to join the Museum? Become a Member Now!!.