Black Artists in California

The history of art in California frequently emphasizes the personal and artistic freedoms afforded to countercultural artists, poets, musicians, and intellectuals who moved west. However, a disjuncture exists between romanticized notions of California as a progressive beacon and the lived realities of many artists of color who pursued careers here. 

Black Artists in California: Nineteenth Century to Now will be the first exhibition to survey the profound contributions that Black artists have made within the history of California. Drawing primarily from the Crocker’s collection, the exhibition will feature California’s best-known Black artists along with many who are lesser known or still early in their careers.

Credit: Exhibition overview from museum website