There are banners on the street poles advertising “Now Dig This” at the Hammer Museum.  This exhibit is one of several under the umbrella of “Pacific Standard Time”, which is coordinating several venues and exhibits throughout the city to celebrate the creativity that’s sprung out of a city that’s mostly known for fantastic weather and surf.

Opening day was on Sunday, October 2nd.  The connected galleries were still fresh for us, the first of the day’s crowds who were reading the wall captions and viewing each piece.  It’s a well-spaced, well-lit show that allows enough room to take in the work up close and at distance without feeling rushed or being bothered.

Throughout the centuries, African-Americans have taken the country’s leftovers and created wonderful food, exciting music, outrageous fashion.  In some ways, this art is no different, at times created out of junkyard finds -- like the Vietnam allegory lifting up towards its viewer on a rusty leaf spring.  There has been meticulous caretaking over the decades and well-trained craftsmanship is on view here.  More than a few of the represented artists have had impressive art training.

Go and see.  See and absorb. “Now Dig This” has been deftly curated by Kellie Jones.  Visit The Hammer’s website for dates and times for the several companion conversations and performances.  http://hammer.ucla.edu/exhibitions/detail/exhibition_id/196

Dale Brockman Davis
Viet Nam Game
1969