Destination Crenshaw is set to become a major cultural landmarklandmark in Los Angeles. Scheduled for completion in Fall 2024, this innovative open-air museum, designed by the renowned architect Zena Howard, who has overseen a number of high-profile projects, including the design of the National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C., promises to be the largest public Black art project in the United States.
What is Destination Crenshaw?
The project, which began in 2020, will transform over 1.3 miles of Crenshaw Boulevard in South Los Angeles—a predominantly Black and diverse community—into a vibrant public space that celebrates Black history, art, and success.
At the heart of this groundbreaking project is Sankofa Park, the first and central feature of Destination Crenshaw, serving as a dynamic hub of art, history, and community interaction.
The concept for Destination Crenshaw was ignited by community response to the construction of the Metro’s Crenshaw/LAX Transit line, which runs adjacent to the neighborhood. Local leaders sought to create a space that honors the community’s culture and history, embracing the resilience of Crenshaw with the mantra “Grow Where You’re Planted.”
Spearheaded by City Council member Marqueece Harris-Dawson, this project is designed to mitigate the negative impacts of the transit line, ensuring active participation and promoting economic growth for residents and businesses of the area. Destination Crenshaw is also set to employ over 70% of its construction workforce from the local area.
Led by Insecure star, Issa Rae, and Chicago Bulls player, DeMar DeRozan, the Sankofa Circle support group raised $2.4 million for the project. In addition, federal funding and contributions from organizations, like the Getty Foundation and the L.A. Metro propelled this project forward.
A closer look at the upcoming Sankofa Park
As Destination Crenshaw nears completion, murals are being installed, marking a significant phase in the project. Over 100 artworks from a mix of emerging and renowned Black artists—including Kehinde Wiley, Alison Saar, Mel Edwards, and Maren Hassinger—will enrich the area. The project also champions environmental sustainability by reforesting Crenshaw Boulevard, creating more than 30,000 square feet of sustainable landscaping and planting over 800 trees, in partnership with L.A. Metro and the City of Los Angeles.
Sankofa Park, designed to be the centerpiece of Destination Crenshaw, will welcome visitors with an elevated walkway and viewing platform, providing panoramic views of the art installations and the lively street scene. A notable feature within the park is Charles Dickson’s “Car Culture,” a sculpture that reflects the significant role of automotive culture in Crenshaw. This piece features West African Senufo-inspired figures linked by fiber optic cables, blending traditional symbols with modern technology.
Upcoming events with Destination Crenshaw
In preparation for its opening, Destination Crenshaw will host two significant events in May to discuss the project’s background:
- How Do You Grow A Rose from Concrete?
📅 May 9, 2024 at 6 p.m.
📍 Crenshaw High School Performing Arts Center
A panel featuring key figures like Gabrielle Bullock and Marqueece Harris-Dawson, offering insights into the architectural and conceptual elements of the project. - Is Car Culture the Ultimate Act of Community in Crenshaw?
📅 May 31, 2024 at 6 p.m.
📍 ASU California Center
A discussion on how public art intertwines with local traditions, such as car culture, to foster community cohesion.
As we near its grand opening, Destination Crenshaw looks to set a new standard for how cities can honor and celebrate Black culture through urban design, making it a significant historical and cultural initiative in Los Angeles and the United States.
For the latest updates on Destination Crenshaw, visitors can head to their official website or follow them on Instagram.