Exhibition
No Crystal Stair: The Photography Of John Simmons
03 Nov 2019 – 29 Mar 2020
The Museum of African American Art
Los Angeles, United States
In 2016, THE MUSEUM OF AFRICAN AMERICAN ART celebrated its 40th anniversary as a nonprofit cultural institution supporting the arts and artists in Los Angeles and educating visitors of all ages. Exhibits and programs at MAAA allow artists and their art to inspire new thinking about issues that intersect with the shared experiences of people across the African diaspora and beyond. The museum's unique art space allows us to exhibit the work of emerging and world-renowned artists, while bringing free art experiences to the public. MAAA proudly serves as an exhibit venue for local artists, a community event space, and a field trip destination for students from public schools.
The Palmer C.Hayden Collection is a central part of the permanent collection at MAAA, giving the public insight into the life and work of one of the leading artists of the Harlem Renaissance. The Palmer C. Hayden Collection includes the John Henry series, a narrative art series of 12 oil paintings by Palmer Hayden illustrating the legendary story told in the Ballad of John Henry. The permanent collection at MAAA includes works from the United States as well as paintings, masks, batiks, carvings, and ceremonial objects from Africa, the Caribbean, the South Pacific, and South America.
THE MUSEUM OF AFRICAN AMERICAN ART was founded in 1976 by noted artist and art historian Dr. Samella Lewis and a group of academic, artistic, business, and community leaders whose goal was to increase public awareness of African American art. The museum operates based on individual and corporate donations; the generous support of Macy's, which donates space inside its Baldwin Hills Crenshaw store; gift shop proceeds; event rentals; and an enthusiastic community of members. MAAA is also sustained by the dedication of its Board of Directors, staff, and volunteers.