California African American Museum (CAAM) – The California African American Museum's mission is to research, collect, preserve, and interpret for public enrichment the history, art, and culture of African Americans with an emphasis on California and the western United States. Founded in 1977, CAAM has a long and rich history. The first African American museum of art, history, and culture fully supported by a state, CAAM was the direct result of a sustained, multiyear campaign of activism undertaken by visionary founders and community members. Its creation was an early and tangible recognition by the State of California of the critically important role African Americans have played in the American West’s cultural, economic, and political development.
Art & Practice – Conceived and founded by artist Mark Bradford, activist Allan DiCastro, and philanthropist and art collector Eileen Harris Norton, Art + Practice (A+P) is a private operating 501(c)3 foundation based in Leimert Park, Los Angeles. A+P’s mission is twofold: (1) collaborate with a nonprofit social service provider (i.e. First Place for Youth) to support the needs of 18 to 24-year-old foster youth who are transitioning into adulthood, and (2) provide free access to museum-curated contemporary art celebrating artists of color.
The Underground Museum – Late artist Noah Davis, along with his wife and fellow artist Karon Davis, conceived of The Underground Museum as a space for exhibitions, events, dialogue, and artist collaborations. Located in the working class neighborhood of Arlington Heights, The Underground Museum is a cultural outpost complete with a garden and film screenings, dedicated to ensuring access to contemporary art and ideas for all of LA's residents.
