Fun and Games: The 42nd Annual Black Doll Show
December 17, 2022 – February 18, 2023
In-Person opening reception: Saturday, December 17, 3 – 6 PM
The William Grant Still Arts Center is proud to announce the longest running annual exhibition in Los Angeles, “Fun and Games – The 42nd Annual Black Doll Show”. Our first in person exhibition after two years online, this exhibition is an exploration of ancestral games and how play can help us think deeper and archive histories. This year we are looking for dolls, quilts, games and images/videos that fit our theme of historic games. Ethnographic studies in Africa allow us a peek into how games are part of social negotiations within various African cultures and Afro-Creole societies in the Americas. The investigation of games and social play indicates three main concepts in anthropological and archaeological theory: identity, agency, and power. In examining, through dolls, the history and culture of gaming in the Black diaspora, we seek to highlight the ways that the oppressed have established in-group power dynamics and identity through games and play.
This year, we include our new acquisitions, a collection of vintage and rare dolls donated by Sandra Campbell.
Featured Artists:
Barbara Flemings
Dr. Cynthia Davis
Fana Babadayo
Heather Hilliard Bonds
Julie Robinson
Kimberly Wilfong Sigman
NK Abstract
Pat Shivers
Rosalyn Miles
Tamika Spencer
Teresa Tolliver
Collectors:
Ericka Nicole
Sika Dwimfo
William Mendez
Upcoming Events
‘Love, Peace & Spades’ is a monthly game night for anyone looking for a fun space to kick it and bond over classic Black family games such as Uno, Dominoes, and, of course, Spades—and if you need lessons, don’t worry, we got you! Come hungry—the menu is delicioso! Come early—it’s Happy Hour! And bring friends or make some—it’s game night! Follow @LovePeaceAndSpades on Instagram for updates, giveaways, and future events! ___________________________ Date: Feb. 1, 2023 | 6 PM – 11…
Free
This solo show by Komla Letsu Phillip is a collective of acrylic canvases painted by the artist in his studio in Ho, Ghana. In his first solo presentation, Komla promotes genuine acceptance of oneself. In a world where we are constantly stimulated, Komla uses his work to express what silence makes him feel. The works depict figures in lively settings with distinctive blue eyes that subliminally signify mental peace.
Free
Experience flavor and treats from across the African Diaspora in a night market curated by Black Women Vedors. Local Black women-owned food businesses bring you cuisine from Jamaica, Ethiopia, and Belize, to name a few. You can also enjoy savory soul food from the heart of Louisiana or try Philly-inspired vegan street food creations. For the encore, quench your thirst with hand-crafted juices and satisfy a sweet tooth with mouth-watering desserts and ice cream.
Free
Don’t know what to do for dinner on a busy Wednesday evening? All this and more at the Leimert Park Night Market Powered by Black Women Vendors. Pull up to enjoy great food & music.
Check the website for ticket price
A Transparent Musical–an innovative and irresistible new musical comedy based on the hit Amazon Prime original TV show. Ali’s Los Angeles Jewish family is filled with secrets, but when their parent, Maura, transitions to the transgender matriarch she always knew she was, the family is forced to confront their own identities and navigate their relationships with each other. Through a revelatory story of acceptance and self-expression, A Transparent Musical explores the intersection of Jewish and queer history while celebrating the…
