Field Notes: Los Angeles Contemporary Museum of Art’s “Simone Leigh” Exhibition — NOMMO Cultural Strategies

Welcome to 'Field Notes,' a NOMMO blog series featuring exhibition reviews across the nation that prioritize Black history, art, and culture. Traditionally, field notes are a researcher's written record of their observations, experiences, and insights while conducting research in the field. They are a key part of many types of research, mainly qualitative inquiry. Our field notes recenter the African/Diasporic experiences within museum settings to assist in accessibility to those museums and galleries for all

In August 2024, NOMMO had the incredible opportunity to experience the awe-inspiring Simone Leigh exhibition at @lacma. Walking through the exhibit was a transformative experience, prompting contemplation on the gaps in historical records and the potential for Black women to become central figures in our collective narrative. The exhibition showcased the incredible talent and artistic prowess of Simone Leigh, and it was truly an enriching experience to witness her work firsthand.

The vastness and artistry of the sculptures left us breathless, leading to a profound inquiry: "What is the true measure of the labor that went into creating Leigh's magnificent works? And on a broader scale, how does the labor of Black individuals, particularly women, contribute to society?" These questions spurred deep reflection on the often unacknowledged contributions of Black individuals, especially Black women, to the cultural, artistic, and societal fabric of our world.

The exhibition's expert curation and execution prompted numerous reflections on the significance and influence of Black sculpture within the gallery space, encouraging us to consider how we can integrate similar intention and depth into our future projects. As we move forward, we are committed to amplifying the voices and talents of underrepresented individuals, and using our platform to foster greater inclusivity and representation in the arts. #NOMMO

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