On December 18, 2022, The Broad, one of Los Angeles’ premier contemporary art museums, unveiled its highly anticipated new exhibition titled “The Next Generation.” Featuring cutting-edge works from emerging artists based in Los Angeles and beyond, the exhibition showcases the bold and innovative work of the newest voices in the art world, exploring themes of identity, technology, and social change. The exhibition highlights a diverse array of mediums, including mixed media, digital installations, and performance art, reflecting the shifting landscapes of both the city and the global art community.
Key players in bringing “The Next Generation” to life include The Broad’s chief curator Joanne Heyler, who was instrumental in selecting the featured artists. Heyler, known for her work with groundbreaking exhibitions, described this particular collection as a “celebration of the energy and creativity that is flowing through Los Angeles today.” “The artists featured in ‘The Next Generation’ represent the future of art—pushing boundaries and challenging norms with their work,” Heyler said during the opening event.
The exhibition brings together works by young artists such as sculptor and visual artist Alexandro Hernandez, whose mixed-media installations use recycled materials to explore the impacts of environmental degradation. His piece “Pollution Landscape” has garnered attention for its compelling use of urban waste and discarded technology to create visually striking representations of a world on the brink of ecological collapse.
Another standout work is “Augmented Reality,” a digital installation by interactive artist Zora Lee, which invites viewers to engage with an augmented reality experience through their smartphones. By using new technology, Lee’s work bridges the gap between physical and digital spaces, questioning how technology shapes human perception and interaction.
The exhibition also features performances by Los Angeles-based dancer and choreographer Nyla Watkins, whose live work explores themes of race, gender, and body politics. Watkins’ “Reflections” is a poignant commentary on identity and personal expression, incorporating both classical and contemporary dance to explore societal expectations placed on marginalized groups.
“The Next Generation” is not just a collection of art but also a window into the changing dynamics of Los Angeles itself. As one of the most diverse cities in the world, Los Angeles has always been a fertile ground for new creative ideas. The exhibition provides a platform for artists who reflect the city’s current cultural, social, and political realities.
While the exhibition is a testament to the city’s ever-evolving art scene, it also challenges traditional expectations of what art can be. “Art should provoke thought and stir emotion, and these artists are doing just that,” said Los Angeles art critic Luis Delgado. “This show signals a new era for contemporary art in LA, where artists aren’t just commenting on the world—they’re reshaping it.”
“The Next Generation” has quickly become one of the most talked-about exhibitions of the year, receiving glowing reviews from art critics and visitors alike. It serves as a powerful reminder of the role that art plays in driving social and cultural change, with these young artists at the forefront of that movement. As the exhibition continues to attract crowds from across the globe, it reaffirms Los Angeles’ reputation as a vibrant hub for innovation and creative expression.
