The Bar-Kays perform at Wattstax, 1972. Stax Museum of American Soul Music.
Wattstax: I Am Somebody! August 9 – October 28, 2007, Theatre Gallery Held in the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, Wattstax was an event of soul music and soul solidarity. Known as the “Black Woodstock,” it was a peaceful, astounding and vivid celebration of self-expression and self-respect with a positive and empowering message. This rare collection of sixty images and memorabilia captures the energy and history of this landmark event 35 years ago, as well as performances by musical icons including the Staple Singers, The Bar-Kays, Albert King, and Isaac Hayes among others. Exhibition organized by the StaxMuseum of American Soul Music, Memphis, TN.
Blacks In and Out of the Box September 13 – December 30, 2007, Gallery II This exhibition celebrates historic photography and showcases cutting edge photographic explorations by artists through an African American lens. It illuminates the importance of California as a space and place that has permitted getting out of the box. The show features unique early photographs from the Steve Turner collection, as well as contemporary images from more than thirty photographic artists and videographers living or trained in California.
The MONK Project-001, 2006. Willie Robert Middlebrook, Jr. Digital creation print. Courtesy the artist. Front: All the Women in My Family, 2004. Carla Williams. Ink jet prints on vellum, insect pins. Courtesy the artist. On view in Blacks in and Out of the Box.
Annenberg Foundation, the City of Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs, the James Irvine Foundation, and the Los Angeles County Arts Commission.
programs
BUILDING A LEGACY - Artis Lane and the Movements of African American Women Sculptors Sunday, November 11, 2pm-4pm / DISCUSSION
Bridget Cooks, assistant professor, Department of Art History at UC Irvine discusses the sculpture of Artis Lane in the context of the history of African American women sculptors since the 19th century. Dr. Cooks explores Lane’s art along with Edmonia Lewis, Meta Warrick Fuller, Elizabeth Catlett and others.
Saturday, October 6, 12pm-2pm / DISCUSSION
ACCESSING THE MUSIC INDUSTRY Music professionals, including producer and songwriter James “Big Jim” Wright; Stax/Concord Music Group Catalog Manager, Jeffrey Spector; and producer and journalist, Alfredo Cruz as moderator, discuss current trends in the industry. Themes include the art of promotion, demo solicitation and negotiating contracts, concluding with a Q&A session. Reservations not required, but encouraged (213) 744-2024.
Saturday, November 17, 1pm-3:30 pm / SPECIAL EVENT
NATIONAL CHILDREN’S BOOK WEEK - Ears Are Burning, Children Are Learning Bring family and friends to CAAM as we inspire and celebrate the written word. Films, storytellers, authors, celebrities and art workshops are all at CAAM to promote literacy and encourage the exploration of the world through books.
Sunday, October 7, 11am-5pm / EVENT
TARGET SUNDAYS @ CAAM - Silver and Gold! When the Silver Foxes Meet the Youth Posse
Sunday, November 18, 2pm-4pm / WORKSHOP
Join the generations who make this world turn when we bring together performers of all ages, from hoofers to hip hop! Program begins at 1pm, including workshops, drumming lessons and special live performances. Sponsored by Target.
A POSED MOMENT In this life drawing workshop, participants sharpen their vision as they render contours, shadows, highlights and mass, drawing from a live model. Ages 12 to adult. Class is limited to 25. Reservations: (213) 744-2024.
Sunday, October 14, 1pm-3pm / WORKSHOP
Untitled, ca 1980. Artis Lane. Mixed media on paper. Courtesy the artist.
The African American Journey West: Permanent Collection Continuously on view in Gallery III Selected artifacts from CAAM’s permanent collection honor African Americans in the journey west from Africa to America.
LIFTING THE BRAND
Sunday, December 2, 11am-5pm / EVENT
Many artists such as Hank Willis Thomas and Carrie Mae Weems utilize established images and add to them to create social commentary. In an appropriation workshop, learn their techniques and make an artwork that reinterprets a recognizable icon. Sonia Brown, CAAM gallery educator, guides this workshop. Ages 10+. Reservations: (213) 744-2024.
TARGET SUNDAYS @ CAAM - Kwanzaa Fest 2007
Saturday, October 20, 6pm-10pm / GALA FUNDRAISER
Saturday, December 8, 1pm-3pm / WORKSHOP
AN ARTFUL EVENING AT CAAM
PICTURE THIS! A Portrait Workshop for Kids 9 and Up
Friends, the Foundation of the California African American Museum hosts the third annual black-tie gala. This is one of the year’s most exciting and glamorous events, where we seek to raise significant support for the ongoing educational programs, collecting efforts, and exhibition programs of CAAM. Our honorees are painter and sculptor Artis Lane for the Lifetime Achievement Award, renowned neurosurgeon and scientist Keith L. Black, MD, for our very own Thomas Bradley Unsung Hero Award, and and for its charitable generosity, The Annenberg Foundation for Foundation Partner. We are also proud to announce our Co-Presenting Sponsors of the evening––The Africa Channel and Broadway Federal Bank. Thank you to all who participate, as your support ensures that CAAM is here for the enjoyment and education of future generations.
While guided by a professional artist, participants deepen their understanding of posture, color, emotion and facial expression. Space is limited. Reservations: (213) 744-2024.
Saturday, October 27, 1pm-3pm / WORKSHOP
BODYSCAPE
upcoming exhibition Exhibition The African Presence in Mexico January 31 – June 1, 2008 The existence of Afro-Mexicans was officially affirmed in the 1990s when the Mexican government acknowledged Africa as Mexico’s “Third Root.” For nearly 500 years, the existence and contributions of African descendants in Mexico have been overlooked, although they have continued to contribute their cultural, musical, and culinary traditions to Mexican society through the present day. This groundbreaking exhibition provides an important opportunity to revisit and embrace the African legacy in Mexico and the Americas while creating significant occasions for cross-cultural dialogue, exchange and presentations for all age ranges and backgrounds. No exhibition has showcased the history, artistic expressions, and practices of Afro-Mexicans in such a broad scope as this one, which includes a comprehensive range of artwork from 18th Century Colonial Caste Paintings to contemporary artistic expressions. The exhibition is organized by the National Museum of Mexican Art, Chicago.
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Join CAAM as we honor the spirit of Kwanzaa. Program begins at 1pm, including workshops, drumming lessons, special live performances and a holiday marketplace. Sponsored by Target.
Saturday, December 15, 1pm-3pm / WORKSHOP
FAMILY ALBUMS RE-MIXED In the style of Albert Chong, participants use images from CAAM’s permanent collection to reinterpret and add meaning to historic photographs. Layer photos with words, natural objects and other elements. Bring a family photo of your own and decorative materials. Artist/instructor Carla Weber provides the inspiration. Ages 9+. Reservations: (213) 744-2024. On auction at gala: Biddy Mason, 2006. Elizabeth Colomba. Oil on canvas.
Artis Lane moved beyond classical influences and embraced and glorified her interpretation of the black form. Following Lane’s example, create a body sculpture reflecting your own view of the nature of beauty. Artist Elliott Pinkney guides you. Ages 9+. Reservations: (213) 744-2024. Sunday, October 28, 1pm-3pm / DISCUSSION
PHOTOGRAPHIC TRANSFORMATIONS Dr. Michael Schreyach, lecturer, Department of Art History at USC explores technical advances in the medium, explicating pieces from Blacks In and Out of the Box as examples. Saturday, November 3, 1pm-2:30pm / DISCUSSION
CONVERSATIONS @ CAAM - Judge William C. Beverly, Jr. (Ret.), founder of Eighth and Wall, Inc. Judge William C. Beverly, Jr. (Ret.) is interviewed by CAAM History Curator Christopher Jimenez y West, PhD to discuss his prolific career in the legal field as well as a purveyor of Los Angeles African American history. As Judge Beverly’s roots in Los Angeles extend back to 1897, he has a concerted interest in documenting the African American experience in the area. Such research contributes to his founding of Eighth & Wall, a non-profit organization whose purpose is to present to the general public the history of the people and cultures of Los Angeles through art, literature and the media. Conversations @ CAAM is supported by Sempra Utilities and Friends, the Foundation of the California African American Museum.
caam in the community
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STUDENT WORKSHOPS AT CAAM LAUSD STEP Program, City of Los Angeles Human Relations Commission and the California African American Museum are joining to support our youth. With four full-day programs held at CAAM, this collaborative creates programs and activities for middle schoolers transitioning to high school. The program is especially geared for students challenged by conflict resolution, and issues of race and homophobia. Scheduled dates are September 14, September 28, October 12 and November 2. Each date will serve a different student base. READY. SET. GROW! CAAM partners with First 5 LA to promote the “Ready. Set. Grow!” initiative, aimed at rewarding parents for keeping their families safe, healthy and ready to learn. As a community partner, CAAM offers participating families a special gift upon entry to the museum who show their First 5 LA card. Community partners include California Science Center, County of Los Angeles Public Library, Expo Center, Legoland, Los Angeles Zoo and the Metro.
Photo: Earl Dotson
Exhibitions
A Woman’s Journey: The Life and Work of Artis Lane September 27, 2007 – March 2, 2008, Gallery I This first retrospective of Artis Lane is an exploration of a painter/sculptor’s work spanning more than 60 years. Her creative vision is captured in drawings and sculptures, ranging from studio nudes, to traditional portraits, to more abstract creations. The exhibition includes self-portraits, as well as representations of family and friends, and busts and paintings of historical figures. Painted portraits include world-renowned figures, such as Oprah Winfrey, President John Fitzgerald Kennedy, Aretha Franklin, and others whose public image is captured so personally. The exhibit also includes Lane’s current metaphysical, sculptural pieces, reflecting her continuing evolution as a woman and an artist. Generously supported by The
Sunday, November 4, 11am-5pm / EVENT
TARGET SUNDAYS @ CAAM - Tilling the Soil and Giving Thanks
Portrait of a Female Soldier from Michoacán, Agustin V. Cassaola (1874 -1938). Michael Tropea. Sepia-tone enlargement from an original photograph.. National Museum of Mexican Art.
This day of programming focuses on African American traditions born out of respect for the land. Join CAAM as we celebrate our rich heritage of family and home through performances in dance, music and the written word. Program begins at 1pm, including workshops , drumming lessons and special live performances. Sponsored by Target. Saturday, November 10, 1pm-3pm / WORKSHOP
SUNPRINTS Using familiar materials and light sensitive paper, make a photograph without using a camera. It’s your unique imprint and art too! Artist/instructor Wanda Clarke. Ages 8+. Reservations: (213) 744-2024.
Family visitors partake in a Target Sundays @ CAAM workshop.
BUSES AND DOCENTS Through Friends, the Foundation of the California African American Museum and incredible donors such as Bank of America, Citigroup Foundation, The Annenberg Foundation and others, CAAM is able to offer schools and community centers in the greater Los Angeles County, who otherwise could not afford it, free docent led tours and free bus transportation for group field trips. To participate, contact Karla Williams, Outreach & Public Education Coordinator at (213) 744-7438 or kwilliams@caamuseum.org.
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S TAT E
Museum Notes
D R I V E . E X P O S I T I O N
CALIFORNIA AFRICAN AMERICAN MUSEUM
October - December 2007
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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
Photo: c.d. jimenez y west
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CAAM State Board of Directors
Charles McLurkin, Esq. L. Charmayne Mills, President Rev. Cecil L. Murray Joseph C. Phillips John E. Sweeney, Esq. Stanley P. Wade Carolyn D. Webb de Macias
CAAM is pleased to also welcome our newest seasonal employees, Joy Anderson and Glynnis Reed, to our Education Department. As Gallery Educators, Ms. Reed and Ms. Anderson conduct tours of exhibitions and art workshops, write educational materials, and participate in the daily operations of the galleries among other responsibilities.
Dr. Leon Banks, Vice President Dr. Caesar Churchwell Eric L. Frazier Rev. Cecil L. Murray Joseph C. Phillips Carolyn D. Webb de Macias, President
The Friends Foundation welcomes Monica Smith as Fiscal Associate. Ms. Smith joins us following ten years as Assistant to the Controller at the nonprofit, community-based organization, Personal Involvement Center. Ms. Smith is a regular CAAM visitor, and is delighted to be on board as Friends Foundation employee.
I
t is time once again to “fall into CAAM.” I urge you to visit Wattstax: I am Somebody! and get your “groove thang” on, glide into Blacks In and Out of the Box to challenge your thinking and debate art, photography, and “blackness,” then slip into a beautiful meditative state of mind in A Woman’s Journey: The Life and Work of Artis Lane. We promise our galleries offer something for everyone. We also enter the fall season saying thank you to our State Board member Trudy Hatter, whose gubernatorial appointed term has come to an end. For seven years, Ms. Hatter has served CAAM with unwavering commitment and diligence, making us better and stronger. We will forever appreciate Trudy Hatter and welcome her continued involvement on our History Council. There aren’t enough words to express the appreciation we have for the hundreds of you who have brought vibrancy to CAAM with your presence, your membership and your enthusiasm. You are the reason for our efforts and our successes, and I hope you will let me call on you for some very special support. We continue to move forward our important campaign to develop a Preliminary Plan for the expansion of CAAM’s physical structure. We celebrate the gracious $2.3 million commitment from Governor Schwarzenegger. Our collective State Legislature however requires $1.1 million matching funds from our Friends Foundation. I am pleased to say that we have already raised 50% of our goal with donations and pledges from The Annenberg Foundation and the California Cultural and Historic Endowment, totaling $610,000. Now, we need your help raising the final $600,000 so we can get our Preliminary Plan under way. Add your name to the team of supporters. This is a campaign of quality and quantity––we need the quality of your donations and the quantity of everyone’s participation. Let’s show the world this is your museum and you are vested in its growth and stability. Contact our Membership Department today and make a donation to our Preliminary Expansion Plan Campaign. Thank you for your support.
David A. Ford Eric L. Frazier Ellis Gordon, Jr., Treasurer Sylvia Hart, Co-Secretary Charmaine Jefferson, Executive Vice President Mattie M. Lawson Paula Madison Cynthia McClain-Hill
We are extremely excited to report CAAM's History Curator and Program Manager, Christopher Jimenez y West, recently received his PhD in History from the University of Southern California. His dissertation focused on postWWII Black Los Angeles. This is not only a personal triumph, but also represents an historic accomplishment, as Dr. Jimenez y West is the first African American male to receive a PhD in History from USC. BRAVO, Christopher. BRAVO!
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Dr. Leon Banks Alice Desobry Bowens, Vice President Dr. Caesar Churchwell Lester Crawford Dr. Monet L. Daniels Edwina Dedlow Keith A. Drake, Co-Secretary Shawn Farrar
BOARD & employee UPDATEs Mattie M. Lawson, President of MML Design Group, joins as Board Member of Friends, the Foundation of the California African American Museum. An interior designer and avid art collector, Ms. Lawson is interested in supporting CAAM through fundraising to further enrich its educational programs, exhibits and community outreach.
From the Director
Photo: solildstatela
GOOD TIMES AT THE CAAM/STAX BLOCK PARTY
CONVERSATIONS @ CAAM – SHELDON EPPS On September 8, CAAM presented the second to last installment of the 2007 Conversations @ CAAM series, featuring Pasadena Playhouse Artistic Director Sheldon Epps. Pictured from left to right: Charmaine Jefferson, Executive Director of CAAM; Karani Marcia Leslie, interviewer; Sheldon Epps; and Beverly LaFontaine, Chairperson of the Conversations @ CAAM Sub-Committee.
CAAM ON TOUR In the Hands of African American Collectors: The Personal Treasures of Bernard and Shirley Kinsey, curated and produced by CAAM, continues to educate and entertain museum visitors nationwide. Beginning its travels at the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center in Cincinnati, the exhibition is on view through March 2, 2008 at the DuSable Museum in Chicago, and then moves to the Norton Museum of Art in West Palm Beach, Florida.
YOUNG DOCENTS – SUMMER OF 2007 This summer, we were honored to host the 2007 class of Young Docents. The thirteen participants successfully completed two weeks of intensive training, exploring topics such as the language of art, research, touring procedures, and CAAM’s history and Permanent Collection. After initial training, each participant undertook four weeks of hands-on experience, working in the museum galleries and administrative offices. From the beginning, this exceptional group stayed true to their commitment and worked diligently to exemplify excellence. With support from the Friends Foundation, Bank of America and MetLife, the majority of Young Docents will be able to work at CAAM through the year
Thank you to all who came out on the September 2 Target Sundays @ CAAM, celebrating the 35th anniversary of Wattstax. The day featured performances by newly signed Stax artist N’dambi, soulful rhythms of Sovory, special guest DJ SCETCH, retro dance competitions, giveaways and much, much more. A very special thanks to Target and Stax Records for helping this day come alive.
THE STATE FAIR IN SACRAMENTO This year, CAAM seized its first opportunity in 30 years to participate in the California State Fair. Located at the Cal Expo in Sacramento, the State Fair opened August 17 to nearly one million people. Visitors had the opportunity to view the CAAM display, documenting the history of the exhibitions and programs presented by the museum. This touring display was also shown outside the Governor’s Office Suite in the State Capitol during Black History Month.
Young Docents on a field trip. From left: Alexander Phillips, Charisse Smith, Cayla Presley, Jalilah Muhammad, Brandon Middleton, Ernestine Collins, Devin Walker, Jordan Ashe, Amanda Hill, Kelsey McCullough, Christopher Anthony, Matthew Prescott, and Eric Tserng.
Photo Karla W. Williams
newsworthy
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 $6.00 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 and copy, Kimberly Parker. Design, The Blue One.
PRESORTED Standard US Postage Paid Permit No. 1619 Los Angeles, CA
From left: Joy Anderson and Glynnis Reed.
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