*This is the second of two writings documenting a trip down south to Los Angeles. Visiting old friends, making new ones, admiring art, and embracing its culture, L.A. delivered. Home is and can be many places…
With 24 hours left in my visit, didn’t want to waste anytime. Culver City Art District, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, and the Hammer Museum were on the agenda. From political to minimalist artworks, L.A.’s flavor and style were oh so California cool.
A rare thunderstorm greeted while visiting Culver City. Some galleries were new and closed while others flourish. My favorite art gallery was Cherry and Martin. One location displayed the meticulous and elegant works of Matt Paweski. While its sister space presented the luminous and exciting art of T. Kelly Mason.
Pontus Willfors’ Homeland exhibit at Edward Cella Art & Architecture provoked discussion with intense conceptual craftsmanship. It wasn’t contrived, annoying, or unorganized. It was refreshingly thoughtful and provocative. At Samuel Freeman, Clarissa Tossin’s How does it travel? left the same impression. According to the gallery’s website, Tossin explores how “…sameness over distance highlights difference.” Brilliant!
Next stop was busy LACMA with innovative programming and positive energy. The museum spans multiple buildings with open air spaces guiding visitors. The Islamic Art Now: Contemporary Art of the Middle East, Ed Moses: Drawings form the 1960s and 70s, and Noah Purlfoy: Junk Dada exhibits were dynamic and demanded attention. Loved every minute!
The next morning arrived at the Hammer Museum. It’s part of UCLA with free admission, only $3 dollar parking, and fantastic artwork. Heaven does exist. Mark Bradford’s pieces in Scorched Earth revealed numerous layers and intricate patterns. In the lobby, his United States map represents how many adults out of 100,000 people were diagnosed with AIDS in 2009. Leaves one asking: what is the current status of the syndrome today?
Heading back home, I’m recharged and renewed with new love and respect for this big territory called California. A piece of me will always admire SoCal and its offerings. It makes our art and world whole.
The links:
http://www.cherryandmartin.com
http://www.edwardcella.com/exhibition/101/#!2697
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