Be Apart of History,
Help Expand the Museum
Who We Are,
What We Do
The Compton Art and History Museum is a groundbreaking space that brings together art, history, and community in new and exciting ways. Whether you're a lifelong resident of Compton or a first-time visitor, this innovative museum is sure to leave a lasting impression and inspire you to think differently about the role of museums in our society. The Compton Art and History Museum sets itself apart from all other museums by engaging visitors in a dynamic and interactive experience that combines art, history, and community in a way that amplifies the culture of people from Compton and greater South Los Angeles.
As a community-based and community-centered museum, we are currently located in the heart of Compton, CA—within a shopping center, a place often overlooked or dismissed by society as unworthy of housing art or culture. Yet, we embrace this tension. Our presence here challenges conventional norms, honoring the beauty, creativity, and power of our people, our space, and our stories.
Why Expand?
Our current space is 900 SQ FT.
We opened our doors on February 18th, 2023 and have had the opportunity to showcase 9 exhibitions, highlighting over 60 local artists. Our exhibition openings bring community members from various ages, cultures, backgrounds, and careers together to celebrate art. The museum has created work opportunities for local youth and helped grow our Community Archiving Fellowship. Young people are the backbone of this space! We service both local community members and visitors/tourists to the city of Compton and have had over 4,000 people visit the museum!
The new location is only 0.9 miles away, an 18 minute walk and 3 minute drive difference.
This expansion will open us from 900 SQ FT to 4,500 SQ FT.
With this new location, we will gain access to a stand-alone building featuring a gated parking lot, welcoming foyer, theater, gift shop, permanent history and entertainment exhibition areas, rotating exhibition area, and a dedicated archiving room. This expanded space will allow residents and visitors to be fully immersed in the rich culture, history, and art of our community.
We are a family,
a community
The Compton Art & History Museum was created to be more than just a space—it’s a home for cultural memory, artistic expression, and community storytelling. By uniting the power of art with the richness of Compton’s history, the museum serves as a vibrant hub where creativity and heritage meet. This collective effort allows for more dynamic programming and opens the door to deeper conversations about identity, resilience, and social change. It’s a place where local narratives are honored, where youth and elders alike can see themselves reflected, and where Compton’s legacy is preserved and celebrated. Ultimately, the museum strengthens the fabric of the community—offering a central space for learning, healing, and pride. It stands as a symbol of Compton’s past, present, and future—a place rooted in purpose and built to inspire generations to come.
Abigail Lopez-Byrd
Co-Founder of Compton Art & History Museum | Founder of Color Compton | Columbia University, MA University of California, Riverside, PhD Student abigail@colorcompton.orgMarquell Byrd
Co-Founder of Compton Art & History Museum | Co-Founder of Color Compton Berklee School of Music, BA mark@colorcompton.orgAbigail was raised in the city of Compton and is an artist, educator, mother and community leader. Marquell is originally from Virginia and is a producer, filmmaker, father, educator and community advocate. Together, along with a small team, they built, opened and continue to operate the museum and featured exhibitions.
Our staff are local to the area and are all creative artists.
With a New Location,
Comes Improved Resources
Just a fraction of what our expansion will be able to bring to our community.
Employment Opportunities
After school study
Community Hub
Disability friendly location
Educational Programs
Resources to local Art, Technology, & Art Supplies
Preserving LA through our archiving database
Destination for tourist & LA Natives
Membership
Make history with us. Donate today to help build the future Compton Art & History Museum.
Your support is essential to our community’s growth. Every contribution brings us closer to a permanent space where Compton’s stories, art, and culture are preserved and celebrated. Together, we can create a legacy that uplifts our artists and empowers our city.
For more information about membership or donation pledges please call 310-627-9022 or email info@colorcompton.org.
