The William Grant Still Arts Center, located at 2520 S. West View St., in L.A., presents its 44th Annual Black Doll Show, titled “in need of good folk… ‘MAGIC FOLK LIKE US’,” curated by Aiysha Sinclair. The show is an homage to the oral tradition and its limitless possibilities, seen through the lens of Black artists and doll makers.
The exhibit runs from Dec. 14 through Feb. 15. The opening reception takes place on Dec. 14, from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Several artists and staff, who have been essential in producing the William Grant Still Arts Center Black Doll Show, were recently featured in Netflix’s acclaimed documentary, “Black Barbie.” Monica Bailey shared her inspiring personal journey toward self-love through dolls, while Amitis Motevalli and Billie Green conveyed significant historical Black doll moments.
Related Links:
https://lasentinel.net/more-than-a-doll-black-barbie-is-black-history.html
https://lasentinel.net/funk-takes-center-stage-at-william-grant-still-arts-center.html
Also included in the documentary was Stacy McBride-Irby, who participated in our 2018 Black Doll Show, reflecting on her time at Barbie and her decision to develop her own Black doll line. These powerful voices underscore the deep connection between Black dolls, identity, and self-empowerment. In this 44th year, the Black Doll Show remains as relevant as ever.
This year’s theme, “in need of good folk… MAGIC FOLK LIKE US,” taps into that same empowering spirit. Sinclair, the Los Angeles-based children’s book author, performer, and doll artist curating this year’s show, is known for her exploration of the magic and wonder within the African diaspora. Her work, which spans across folk tales, fairy tales, and folklore, invites visitors to reconnect with their roots and explore the cultural richness that Black storytelling has offered the world.
“These stories are haunting as well as uplifting,” says Sinclair. “I don’t think I’ll ever tire of learning from them. It is an honor to share my stories, and those of my ancestors, whether through writing, mixed media, or creating dolls.”
At the heart of this year’s exhibit is a celebration of the countless stories that Black people have passed down through the ages — stories of tricksters, supernatural beings, heroic women, and enslaved ancestors. The exhibit will showcase dolls and mixed media pieces that bring to life Black folklore, reflecting the joy, resilience, and spirit of Black culture.
Artists Cecil and Miriam Fergerson started the Black Doll Show in the 1980s, bringing together handmade Black dolls to celebrate the beauty and cultural significance of Black identity. Through this tradition, the William Grant Still Arts Center has continued to create a space for Black artists to reshape narratives and redefine self-worth.
The center will offer Doll-Making Workshops on Dec. 21, Jan. 11, and Feb. 8. Other events include a Stories & Books with a Zine Making Workshop on Feb. 1.
For more information, visit culture.lacity.gov or follow us on Facebook at: facebook.com/culturela, Instagram @culture_la, and Twitter @culture_la.