Picture American Gothic but with an African-American janitor, mop and broom in hand, in place of the iconic farmer and his wife. This signature piece (appropriately titled American Gothic) by photographer Gordon Parks is among the 75-plus prints, shot between 1940 and 1970, on view now at Jenkins Johnson Gallery. As the first black staff photographer at a major magazine, Park’s photojournalism for Life acted as commentary on the era’s rampant social injustice and, today, serves as a symbol of the then-budding civil rights movement.
When: Through April 20
Where: Jenkins Johnson Gallery, 464 Sutter St.
Music
Bajofondo
This celebration of the music of Argentina and Uruguay embraces the spirit of Latin America while drawing on the talent and influence of artists from across the world. The group comes to San Francisco after the release of their newest album Mar Dulce, which features artists as diverse as Elvis Costello and Mala Rodríguez. As the project has evolved from a studio-based, widely remixed body of work towards a more real-time dynamic style, the sound has evolved while holding on to a traditional, emotional, and historical sound.
When: 8 p.m., Tue. 3/19
Where: Bimbo’s 365 Club, 1025 Columbus Ave.
Fashion
The Art of Fashion: Jason Wu
Fashion and philanthropy hold a place in the hearts of many, so this collaboration between the SF Opera Guild and Neiman Marcus is the perfect opportunity to blend together beautiful design and the chance to support the Opera Guild’s music education programs. The event is an elegant evening complete with champagne, dinner, and a runway show highlighting Wu’s fall 2013 collection.
When: 6 p.m., Thurs. 3/21
Where: San Francisco City Hall, 1 Dr. Carlton B. Goodlett Pl.
Performance Art
Dance Anywhere
What if the world around you stopped, and for a moment, everyone just danced? This is the inspiration of Dance Anywhere, a spontaneous and provocative event that is taking place throughout San Francisco and in over 316 other cities around the world. The participatory global public performance is a chance to put down your iPhone and be a part of a global human moment that you won’t soon forget.
When: 12 p.m. (PST), Fri. 3/22
Where: various locations throughout the Bay Area including SFMOMA, The San Francisco Main Library, Oakland Museum, and Yerba Buena Gardens
Dance
ODC Pilot 62’s Kinetoscope…This Time With Pictures
A collection of dance films and live multi-media performances, the Pilot Program 62 presents the work of six dance film artists who have been mentored by renowned LA filmmaker, video artist, and choreographer Cari Ann Shim Sham. The program will be a stimulating and thought-provoking presentation of creativity..
When: 8 p.m., Fri. 3/22 and Sat. 3/23
Where: ODC Theater, 3153 17th St.
Fundraiser
Parade Art Auction
For the love of artists and the work that they do, nonprofit Southern Exposure is hosting their annual art auction to raise funds for their programs supporting local artists. The event is not just a live and silent auction but an energetic party full of music, food, drinks, and the creative works of artists that celebrate Southern Exposure’s work in the community.
When: 6 p.m., Sat. 3/23
Where: Southern Exposure, 3030 20th St.
Music
Black Star
Since they rose from the underground movement of the 1990s, Black Star has remained one of the strongest hip-hop duos of modern day, shaping the music scene through their own music as well as collaborations with other artists. Members Talib Kweli and Yasiin Bey (formerly known as Mos Def) are going to put on a show that absolutely cannot be missed.
When: 8 p.m., Sat. 3/23
Where: Fox Theater, 1807 Telegraph Ave., Oakland
