"Arkestry of the Cosmos" Exhibition

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Category: Art

Published on Tuesday, 30 April 2013 16:36

Written by Renee Montgomery

 "Arkestry of the Cosmos" is an exhibition of the archives, art, and interviews of Sun Ra and members of the “Ark” at the William Grant Stills Center. 

Sun Ra (1914-1993) was a prolific jazz composer, bandleader, synthesizer, known for his music, poetry and performances based on a “cosmic philosophy” and quest to expand minds, music, and the souls through musical experimentation. Known for his eclectic and quirky music and lifestyle, Sun Ra led an ensemble called “The Arkestra” which changed names as Sun Ra’s music constantly changed and grew. Music aficionados consider Ra’s influence great, including many technical music innovations, and a reaffirmation of music rooted in black history,
mysticism and spirituality.

Featuring artwork by video art pioneer Ulysses Jenkins, Ramsess, Norm Maxwell, Samuel Pace, and murals by Aise Bourne, the exhibition consists of over 150 rare photographs, videos, articles, important highlights from The Arkestra’s vinyl discography (33 1/3s, 45s, and 78s) plus original concert posters pulled from local collections. This exhibition is especially relevant to local audiences because Sun Ra first appeared in Los Angeles at the Dorsey High School Auditorium in 1969, just blocks from the Grant Still Arts Center.