The African Diaspora in the Art of Miguel Covarrubias: Driven by Color, Shaped by Cultures WHAT: The California African American Museum (CAAM) launched an extensive exhibition that explores the representations of people of African descent in the work of Mexican artist Miguel Covarrubias. His work tells the story of people, traditions and everyday life. Covarrubias’ drawings have adorned the covers of Vanity Fair, Vogue, and Fortune magazines. He was known during the Harlem Renaissance period for his representations of African Americans, but his paintings also depicted Afro-Mexicans, Afro-Cubans and West and North Africans. The exhibition, which took three years to complete, includes several pieces that have never been shown in the U.S. as well as an oversized mural 15 by 25 feet large from 1939. WHEN: THE EXHIBITION IS ON VIEW THROUGH FEBRUARY 26, 2012. Additionally, there are a series of events taking place to celebrate the exhibition including: Saturday, January 7, 2012 - 2 p.m.: A Biographer Speaks: Miguel Covarrubias and the Representations of African Americans Presentation: Adriana Williams discusses the artist’s work in the context of the Harlem Renaissance. Sunday, January 15, 2012 - 1p.m.-2 p.m.: Dances of the African Diaspora and the Pacific Rim Performance: As part of CAAM’s Target Sunday/ week-end-long celebration of the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. and his message of peace and reconciliation, CAAM presents original live dance performances from some of the cultures represented in the exhibition. Sunday, February 5, 2012 -11a.m.- 2 p.m.: Trekking the World Community Art Workshop: Participants create their own imaginary mosaic globe using toys and other recycled materials. WHERE: California African American Museum 600 State Drive, Exposition Park Los Angeles, CA 90037 DETAILS/PRICE: All events are free, open to the public and open to all ages CONTACT: For more information, visit http://www.caamuseum.org/ or call (213) 744-7432