Celebrating Black Artistry in Los Angeles This February

February marks a significant time to celebrate Black artistry, especially as museums across Los Angeles unveil exhibitions that honor and highlight the creative contributions of Black artists. From the renowned Getty Center to the vibrant spaces of LACMA, here’s a roundup of must-see exhibitions that offer enriching insights into Black history and culture during Black History Month.

The Day Tomorrow Began – LACMA

At the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), Tavares Strachan’s multisensory exhibit, The Day Tomorrow Began, invites viewers to engage with the often-overlooked aspects of the Black diaspora. This immersive installation cleverly intertwines sculpture, sound, scent, and light to illuminate stories that mainstream history has neglected. Visitors can enjoy free admission after 3 PM on weekdays, making it an accessible option for all.

Monuments – Geffen Contemporary at MOCA

A visit to the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) is essential for those looking to explore deeper themes of American history. The Monuments exhibition, featuring decommissioned Confederate statues, confronts the complex legacies of the Civil War and the ongoing societal trauma linked to it. This thought-provoking exhibition forces us to reevaluate the narratives we celebrate in public spaces.

The Geffen Contemporary at MOCA is free on the first Friday of each month, allowing visitors an opportunity to explore its impactful content without financial barriers.

The Museum of African American Art

Nestled in Baldwin Hills, the Museum of African American Art (MAAA) features an impressive permanent installation showcasing over 40 works by Palmer C. Hayden, a leading figure of the Harlem Renaissance. This museum is dedicated to highlighting the importance of Black artistry and is free to the public, making it a noteworthy stop during your explorations.

These Walking Glories – CAAM

The California African American Museum (CAAM) is hosting These Walking Glories, an emotionally charged exhibit by Sage Ni’Ja Whitson, dedicated to honoring Black transgender individuals lost to violence and suicide. The exhibit encompasses ceremonial elements—including performance and oral history recordings—creating a space for reflection and remembrance. This exhibit runs through April 5, 2026, and is free to the public.

Sometimes I Feel Like I Am Almost Home – CAAM

J.J. Anderson’s short film, Sometimes I Feel Like I Am Almost Home, explores familial and historical narratives rooted in racism in North Carolina. Featuring archival imagery and intimate interviews, this exhibit offers a compelling look into the artist’s ancestral journey. Open through March 22, 2026, this exhibit is also free to all visitors.

Dear Mazie – CAAM

In honor of Amaza Lee Meredith, the first Black queer woman architect in the United States, Dear Mazie features the work of eleven contemporary artists who reflect on her legacy. This exhibit not only pays tribute to Meredith’s impact but also opens up conversations about diversity in architecture and representation in a field that historically marginalized people of color. Open through April 5, 2026, this exhibit is a must-see.

Giving You the Best That I Got – CAAM

This poignant exhibition focuses on the sacred journey of Black motherhood through a variety of artistic expressions. Featuring numerous artists, this exhibit captures the myriad experiences and profound resilience of Black mothers. It’s open to the public and runs until April 5, 2026.

Highly Favored – Los Angeles LGBT Center

The Los Angeles LGBT Center will showcase Highly Favored, an exhibition dedicated to Black queer nightlife, commemorating the legacy of the late Jewel Thais-Williams, the owner of the iconic bar Catch One. The opening night on February 13 will serve as both an art show and a dance party, inviting community members to celebrate and connect.

Photography and the Black Arts Movement – Getty Center

The Getty Center will soon display Photography and the Black Arts Movement, examining the role of photography in the Black civil rights struggle. This exhibition promises to feature a rich array of artists and activists who utilized the medium to catalyze social change. The exhibit opens February 24 in the West Pavilion’s lower level.

Made In L.A. – Hammer Museum

Lastly, the Hammer Museum presents Made In L.A., showcasing a biennial collection of works from 28 local artists. This varied exhibition highlights filmmaking, painting, sculpture, and more, all reflecting unique interpretations of life in Los Angeles. Entry to the Hammer Museum is free, and the exhibit will run until March 1, 2026.

This February, Los Angeles unfolds a vibrant tapestry of Black artistry, each exhibition offering unique perspectives and narratives worth exploring. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these cultural experiences offer a profound connection to the stories that shape our society.