From the Ground Up
2024
Feb 3 – Dec 31
An examination of Vernon Brunson’s remarkable life in Santa Monica and his impact on the community through his creative and scientific endeavors and commitment to civil rights.
Curators: Anne Wallentine and the Quinn Research Center
QUINN GALLERY EXHIBITION
From the Ground Up
The Life of Vernon Brunson
Born into one of the first Black families in Santa Monica, Vernon Brunson was a poet, playwright, and columnist for the California Eagle newspaper.
Despite encountering barriers in aviation due to racism, he channeled his passion by becoming an electro mechanical designer at Hughes Aircraft. Additionally, he founded a branch of the Black Wings Flying Club, championing inclusivity in aviation.
Brunson was a vocal advocate for equality, contributing an accessibility ramp to the design for Santa Monica City Hall, emphasizing the intersection of his work with the broader social issues of his time.
The exhibition positions Brunson within the context of Black architects like Paul Revere Williams, showcasing his collaborations and highlighting his impact on the architectural landscape.
On display, a diverse array of his work, from architectural plans to paintings, furniture designs, and even a unique “selfie” mechanism he created for his camera. The exhibition delves into the personal aspects of his life, providing a holistic view of this extraordinary individual.
“We are so excited to continue to deepen our relationship and further our work with the Quinn Research Center through this fascinating look at the life of the extraordinary Vernon Brunson. He was a true renaissance man, and we’re honored to present his story.”
-Rob Schwenker, Executive Director Santa Monica History Museum.
From the Ground Up, The Life of Vernon Brunson is presented in the museum’s Quinn Gallery, established under a partnership with the Quinn Research Center, an archive for Black Family History. The Santa Monica History Museum invites the public to join in this tribute to Vernon Brunson’s life and achievements, fostering a deeper understanding of his legacy in shaping the fabric of Santa Monica.
This exhibition made possible through the generous support of our sponsors
ANISE & CHARLES HARKEY
About the Quinn Gallery
The Quinn Gallery is a partnership of the Santa Monica History Museum and the Quinn Research Center (QRC). The Quinn Gallery advances the museum’s commitment to inclusivity as we continue our mission to share the rich, diverse history of the Santa Monica Bay area.
The QRC is an archive of Black family history and Santa Monica Bay culture. Established by Carolyne and Bill Edwards, as a tribute to the legacy of Dr. Alfred T. Quinn, a prominent Santa Monica Black educator and community leader.
