This weekend at LACMA, we're opening two new exhibitions! Opening on Sunday, May 5, come see Frank Stella: Selections from the Permanent Collection, presenting a selection of works that represent significant developments in the artist’s career, many of which have not been on public view for over 30 years! Frank Stella has been a pivotal figure in the development of modern art since the 1950s. Working in multiple mediums, Stella has created an extensive body of work that has consistently challenged the conventions of art-making. Over the last six decades, Stella has pushed the boundaries of Abstract Expressionism, helped usher in Minimalism, and blurred distinctions between painting and sculpture, continuously experimenting with new materials, abstract forms, and innovative techniques. Also opening this Sunday, Isaac Julien: Playtime marks Julien’s first major presentation in Los Angeles. Starring James Franco, Maggie Cheung, Colin Salmon, and auctioneer Simon de Pury, among others, the work offers a captivating critique of the influence of capital in the art world. Member previews for Frank Stella and Isaac Julien: Playtime are Thursday, May 2 through Saturday, May 4 and Saturday, May 4, respectively.
This Friday, First-time Fridays returns! If you have never been to LACMA, or know of someone who has never visited, join us this Friday to explore the museum, receive a special welcome gift, discounts at C+M Café, and a special offer at the LACMA store. If you stick around until 6 pm, you can enjoy a free outdoor jazz concert. Presented Friday evenings from April to November, this week's Jazz at LACMA performance is by critically acclaimed singer Sweet Baby J’ai. At 7 pm, join a free talk with Colombo-based artist Jagath Weerasinghe and LACMA curator Tushara Bindu Gude as they discuss Sri Lanka's contemporary art scene, in conjunction with the exhibition, The Jeweled Isle: Art from Sri Lanka.
On Saturday, May 4 at 7:30 pm, experience a compelling performance inspired by the exhibition Charles White: A Retrospective, “Portrait of Charles White,” presented by Obie Award-winning collaborators Roger Guenveur Smith and Marc Anthony Thompson. Then Sunday, at 11 am, join artists Ulysses Jenkins and Gary Lloyd for a walkthrough of Charles White: A Retrospective. Both Jenkins and Lloyd are former students of White and their work is featured in Life Model: Charles White and His Students. Between 12:30 and 3:30 pm, stop by Andell Family Sundays—The Art of Charles White and participate in art workshops inspired by the exhibition Charles White: A Retrospective.
Lastly, on Sunday, May 5 at 6 pm, don't miss an incredible performance by expert pianist Daniel Schlosberg at Sundays Live.