Saturday, August 14, 2021.  After 17 months of lockdown, Casa 0101 once again opened its door to the public. It was fitting that it was to host a reception in its Jean Deleage Gallery, for Capturing Beauty: The Artwork and Photography of John Simmons.  Emmy Award winning director of photography, John Simmons was on hand, as was exhibit curator Jimmy Centeno as well as a few dozen members of the public, to enjoy in person the poignant work of this master photographer.  

Casa 0101 Executive Director Emmanuel Deleage and Curator Jimmy Centeno presented Mr. Simmons with a Certificate from LA City Councilmember Kevin de Leon, commending Mr. Simmons for his artistry and his contribution to Los Angeles culture.  Mr. Simmon’s black and white images cascades with a full spectrum of life. His cinematic lens captures the purest of moments in the most spontaneous instant. Simmons’s paper collage cartographies are mappings that zoom in and out of political and social narratives, the harsh reality and struggles of Black American history without losing a sense of hope. “I didn’t think that they would turn into anything that was important. That’s not why I did it. I did it because I love taking pictures. I loved art, and I loved telling the story of where I lived, and what I was about. That camera put me right in the middle of everything.” – John Simmons

Capturing Beauty has been extended thru October 31st, 2021. To learn more about the exhibit and take a virtual tour, click here.