Since the mid-20th century, California has been a beacon of both inventive design and political activism. Exploring the intersection of these two realms, this exhibition uses case studies from LACMA’s collection to demonstrate how designers and artists championed civil rights, opposed wars and injustice, and pressed for change. Skilled communicators by profession, they distilled complex issues into eye-catching images, often appropriating commercial art techniques—from newspaper broadsheets to screen prints to digital downloads—to distribute powerful imagery despite limited resources. Others led workshops and formed printing collectives, providing movements with new methods for disseminating their messages. Their works express both outrage and optimism, going beyond protest to envision alternative ways of living. Key figures and organizations including Emory Douglas of the Black Panther Party, Sheila Levrant de Bretteville of the Woman’s Building, Self Help Graphics & Art, and street artist Shepard Fairey achieved widespread acclaim and notoriety, galvanizing political movements and empowering marginalized communities.
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What would you say?: Activist Graphics from the Los Angeles County Museum of Art
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FREE
The Trailblazing Career of Mary Louise Schmidt
The Trailblazing Career of Mary Louise Schmidt: How the 1936 House and Garden Exhibition Became a Launching Pad for Innovative Small Homes in Los Angeles and Reshaped the Built Environment of California In 1936, little-known housing advocate and shrewd businesswoman Mary Louise Schmidt organized what might be the most significant architecture show of the 20th century — right here in Los Angeles. This free self-guided Trail map and research report explores the exteriors of the still-standing homes featured at…
$40
Canoga Park Youth Arts Center 2023 Spring Session
Save the date! Online registration for Spring classes begins March 13 at 8am Registration will be online via Eventbrite: Class fees will be collected in person at our center the week following registration. See the flyer for details. See you soon!
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Conversing in Clay: Ceramics from the LACMA Collection
One of the earliest and best-preserved areas of artistic production across the globe, ceramics remains a vital field of expression and experimentation into the present. Conversing in Clay: Ceramics from the LACMA Collection explores the medium through 14 case studies, placing historical works in visual dialogue with contemporary examples to illuminate symbolic meanings, technical achievements, and resonances throughout time.
Free
Downtown Santa Monica Farmers Market
The Downtown Santa Monica Farmers market is widely recognized as one of the largest and most diverse Certified Farmers’ Markets in the nation. Local residents, out-of-town visitors, celebrities, and many of Los Angeles’ best-known chefs and restaurants, can be found shopping in this location which features over 60 California farms.
Free
Community Band
Community Band with Logan Hone is held outside in Hermon Park most Saturday, as a series of creative musical sessions and concerts. Musicians of all skill levels, ages, & backgrounds are invited to join the band in learning an eclectic mix of music, including jazz, Latin, folk, & original material. Participation is free. Bring your instrument, water, and snacks. Percussion instruments are provided.