918 California Ave, Los Angeles, is an unassuming address that holds a pivotal role in the genesis of the Los Angeles art scene. This modest location is where the nascent seeds of a vibrant, eclectic, and influential art movement were first sown.
The Early Days
In the 1950s and 1960s, Los Angeles was not considered a major player in the art world. New York City held the crown, and L.A. was often dismissed as a cultural backwater. However, a group of maverick artists, disillusioned with the East Coast's rigidity, began to gather at 918 California Avenue.
The Ferus Gallery
The Ferus Gallery, founded in 1957 by Walter Hopps and Edward Kienholz, was seminal to this movement. Located at 918 California Ave, it became the epicenter of avant-garde art in Los Angeles. The gallery's first exhibit featured assemblages by Edward Kienholz, setting the tone for what was to come.
Key Players
- Walter Hopps: A visionary curator who later directed the Pasadena Art Museum and the Menil Collection in Houston.
- Edward Kienholz: Known for his provocative installations and assemblages, Kienholz was a co-founder of the Ferus Gallery.
- Billy Al Bengston: One of the first artists exhibited at Ferus, known for his motorcycle-inspired art.
- Ed Ruscha: His iconic works like “Every Building on the Sunset Strip” have become symbols of L.A.’s cultural landscape.
- Larry Bell: Famed for his glass cube sculptures that play with light and perception.
Hidden Gems
- Andy Warhol’s First West Coast Show: The Ferus Gallery hosted Andy Warhol's first solo exhibition on the West Coast in 1962, featuring his now-iconic Campbell’s Soup Cans.
- The “Cool School”: This term refers to the group of artists associated with the Ferus Gallery, who were characterized by their minimalist, pop, and conceptual artworks.
- Duchamp’s Influence: Marcel Duchamp, the godfather of conceptual art, was an early supporter and frequent visitor, significantly influencing the gallery’s direction.
Cultural Impact
The Ferus Gallery wasn't just a place to display art; it was a social hub where artists, critics, and collectors congregated. It played a crucial role in integrating the West Coast art scene into the broader national and international dialogue.
Trivia & Hidden Facts
- The Name “Ferus”: The gallery’s name was suggested by artist Robert Irwin and means "wild" or "untamed" in Latin, reflecting the rebellious spirit of its founders and artists.
- The “War Babies” Exhibition: In 1961, Ferus Gallery hosted "War Babies," a controversial and groundbreaking show that included works by Bruce Conner, Jay DeFeo, and others.
- The Closure and Legacy: The Ferus Gallery closed in 1966, but its influence persists. Many of its artists went on to achieve international fame, and its ethos can be seen in contemporary L.A. galleries.
The Scene Expands
Following the closure of Ferus, the baton was picked up by other pioneering spaces: - Gemini G.E.L.: A printmaking workshop that attracted the likes of David Hockney and Richard Serra. - L.A. Louver: Opened in 1975, it became known for showcasing contemporary art and fostering local talents. - The Getty Center: Opened in 1997, it became a cultural landmark with its extensive art collections and research facilities.
The Birth of L.A. Conceptualism
The 1960s and 1970s saw the rise of L.A. Conceptualism, driven by artists like John Baldessari and Chris Burden. Known for its emphasis on ideas over aesthetics, this movement helped cement L.A.'s reputation as a breeding ground for innovative art.
Art Schools and Institutions
- California Institute of the Arts (CalArts): Founded in 1961, CalArts became a nurturing ground for experimental artists.
- UCLA: Its School of the Arts and Architecture has produced numerous influential artists and continues to be a vital part of the L.A. art ecosystem.
Modern-Day Influence
Today, the legacy of 918 California Ave lives on in the thriving Los Angeles art scene. From the Broad Museum to MOCA, the city is now a global hub for contemporary art.
In summary, 918 California Ave, Los Angeles, may appear as just another address, but it holds a treasure trove of art history. From the pioneering Ferus Gallery to the artists who defined an era, this location is a cornerstone in the story of the Los Angeles art scene.