Live music. Spoken word. Storytellers. Beautiful, thought provoking Black dolls.
Saturday, December 14 · 3 – 6pm
William Grant Still Arts Center | 2520 South West View Street Los Angeles, CA 90016
“in need of good folk… MAGIC FOLK LIKE US”
Fairy tales and Folk tales from the African Diaspora Reimagined Through Black dolls
Step into a world of wonder, storytelling, and Black folklore with us at the 44th Annual Black Doll Show! Curated by the incredibly talented Aiysha Sinclair, this year’s show at the William Grant Still Arts Center will bring Black stories and imagination to life through the artistry of dolls, paintings, quilts and more.
What to Expect?
This year’s theme, “in need of good folk… MAGIC FOLK LIKE US,” is an invitation to reconnect with Black history, culture, and the magic that lives within us all. This isn’t just an exhibit—it’s an experience where each doll tells a story, carrying the spirit of villages, families, and dreams of the African diaspora.
As Seen on Netflix’s “Black Barbie”
We’re thrilled to feature artists highlighted in the Netflix documentary, Black Barbie, including Monica Bailey, Amitis Motevalli, and Billie Green. They’ve shared powerful reflections on how Black dolls have shaped their lives and empowered self-love and cultural pride. These artists embody the mission of the Black Doll Show—to create, uplift, and honor Black identity.
The Legacy
Born in the 1980s, the Black Doll Show began as a response to the heartbreaking results of the 1940s doll tests. Conducted by Mamie and Kenneth Clark, the experiment revealed how systemic racism impacted Black children’s self-esteem and led them to prefer white dolls. By celebrating Black beauty through handmade dolls, the show has countered negative narratives and inspired generations.
SAVE THE DATES
Where: William Grant Still Arts Center
Opening Reception: December 14, 2024
Exhibition Dates: Dec 14, 2024 – Feb 15, 2025
Doll Workshops
– December 21, 2024
– January 11, 2025
– February 8, 2025
Additional Events During the Black Doll Show Run:
– Panel (Tara Whitaker, Aiysha Sinclair, Ms. Nayila Malik) Jan 18
– Stories & Books (Zine Making Workshop) Feb 1
– Tea Time (drink tea with your dolls) closing Feb 15
