John Outterbridge, key figure in L.A.’s Black assemblage arts movement, dies at 87

John Outterbridge, a central figure in the Black assemblage arts movement and former director of the Watts Towers Arts Center, has died in Los Angeles. He was 87.

Tami Outterbridge, his daughter, confirmed the death, but other details, including the date, place and cause of death, were not disclosed.

The artist was known for his evocative sculptures made from found or discarded materials including cloth, containers and metal. Some of his most celebrated work includes a series of doll figures, stitched from rags, hair and wood scraps, that reference the Black tradition, community and folklore.