Los Angeles

Dr. Virginia Joy Simmons – Destination Crenshaw’s Senior Art Exhibition Advisor

Los Angeles has been a quiet hub for Black art since the 1960s.  With artists like Betye Saar, Melvin Edwards, and Noah Purifoy, creating community and exhibitions, Black art has become a staple in West Coast culture. Dr. Virginia Joy Simmons has diligently contributed to this movement and keeps Black stories alive through art collection and philanthropy.

Tarra Denise Jackson is Fearless, Focused, and Unstoppable

For Tarra Denise Jackson every performance is an opportunity to dig into uncomfortable truths. “I believe art should always be a protest” she says. “Whether it’s challenging societal failures or resisting personal limitation,” she believes art should agitate. Tarra Denise Jackson is an actor and producer who uses her artistry to challenge fear, push boundaries, and take control of her narrative with her latest film, “The Checklist.”

Paris Crayton III Brings Gritty, Powerful Drama to L.A. with ‘Brothers of Affliction’ 

“Brothers of Affliction” makes its West Coast debut at the Willie Agee Playhouse in Inglewood, running from March 14 to March 30, 2025. Written, produced, and directed by acclaimed playwright Paris Crayton III, this raw and unfiltered drama offers audiences an intimate look at Black male vulnerability, healing, brotherhood, trauma, and redemption. 

Play It Forward with Love, Peace, and Spades

2025 is the year of community and Kevito Clark, founder of Love, Peace, & Spades (LP&S), is facilitating free, donation-based community game night throughout Los Angeles. O

Jason James Dances Past Fear to Chase His Dreams

“Do it scared. Do it with fear because the payout is almost always much better than the risk that you’re taking.” These words, spoken by Jason James, sum up a philosophy that carried him from his hometown of Waterbury, Connecticut, to dancing to the competitive beat of Los Angeles’ dance streets.