834 California Ave, located in Los Angeles, has been a significant address in the evolution of the art scene in the City of Angels. The art scene in Los Angeles has evolved dramatically over the decades, transforming from a cultural desert to a thriving hub of creativity and innovation.
A Brief History
In the early 20th century, Los Angeles was largely overlooked as an art center. The city was more famous for its burgeoning film industry than for fine arts. However, the establishment of the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) in 1965 marked the beginning of a new era. The museum helped to legitimize the local art scene and attract artists from around the world.
The 1970s and 1980s saw an explosion of creativity, with the emergence of the Chicano Art Movement and the rise of influential artists such as David Hockney and Ed Ruscha. These artists brought international attention to Los Angeles and helped to establish it as a major art center.
Trivia and Hidden Facts
The Geffen Contemporary at MOCA, located in the Little Tokyo district, was originally a police car warehouse before being transformed into an art space by architect Frank Gehry.
The Getty Center, which opened in 1997, was designed by Richard Meier and took 14 years to complete. It is renowned for its impressive collection of European paintings, drawings, sculptures, and decorative arts.
The Broad museum, which opened in 2015, was founded by philanthropists Eli and Edythe Broad. The museum is known for its "veil-and-vault" design by Diller Scofidio + Renfro.
Murals are a significant part of Los Angeles' art scene. The city is home to the largest collection of murals in the world, thanks to the Mural Ordinance passed in 2013 that allows artists to create murals legally on private property.
Notable Art Districts
Downtown Los Angeles: The downtown area is home to numerous art galleries, museums, and performance spaces, including the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) and the Walt Disney Concert Hall.
Culver City: Known for its vibrant gallery scene, Culver City is home to several influential galleries, including Blum & Poe and Kopeikin Gallery.
Venice Beach: This eclectic neighborhood has a rich history of artistic expression and is home to the Venice Art Walk, an annual event that showcases local artists.
Influential Art Schools
California Institute of the Arts (CalArts): Founded by Walt Disney, CalArts has produced numerous influential artists, including John Baldessari and David Salle.
Otis College of Art and Design: This institution has a strong emphasis on contemporary art and has nurtured artists like Larry Bell and Kim Gordon.
Public Art and Installations
The Urban Light installation at LACMA, created by Chris Burden, features 202 restored street lamps from the 1920s and 1930s. It has become an iconic symbol of Los Angeles.
The Watts Towers, constructed by Simon Rodia over a period of 33 years, are a stunning example of outsider art. The towers are made from steel rods, wire mesh, and concrete, and are adorned with found objects like glass, pottery, and seashells.
Contemporary Scene
The contemporary art scene in Los Angeles is characterized by its diversity and innovation. Gallery Row in Downtown LA hosts the monthly Art Walk, where galleries open their doors to the public for exhibitions and events.
Many artists and creative professionals are drawn to Los Angeles for its relatively affordable living costs compared to other major art cities like New York and London. This influx of talent has led to the rise of new galleries and art spaces, such as The Box and The Underground Museum.
The city's art scene is also supported by numerous art fairs, including Frieze Los Angeles and Art Los Angeles Contemporary, which attract collectors, curators, and art enthusiasts from around the world.
Los Angeles continues to be a dynamic and influential center for the arts, with a rich history and a promising future. Whether you're exploring the murals of East LA or visiting the cutting-edge galleries of Hollywood, there's always something new and exciting to discover in the City of Angels.