LA’s Cultural Side, Part 1
Courtyard at the J. Paul Getty Museum
Photo uploaded by Allan Ferguson
Los Angeles is perhaps best known as one of the movie meccas of the world. But did you know that LA and the surrounding area also have some excellent art museums, too? Here are some of our picks for art museums to visit on your next Los Angeles vacation.
The J. Paul Getty Museum: This museum has two locations: the Getty Villa in Malibu and the Getty Center in Los Angeles. Both focus on American European art, including paintings, drawings, sculpture, and photographs. Current exhibitions include Medieval Treasures from the Cleveland Museum of Art at the Getty Center and Reflecting Antiquity: Modern Glass Inspired by Ancient Rome at the Getty Villa.
The Geffen Contemporary at MOCA: Housing one of the country’s finest collections of American and European art created since 1940, the Geffen’s displays range from abstract expressionism and pop art to new works by emerging artists. Current exhibitions include a multimedia display of art by Takashi Murakami.
Museum of Contemporary Art Grand Avenue: MOCA’s building itself is a work of art, as evidenced by the American Institute of Architects listing it as one of the “10 Best Works of American Architecture Completed Since 1980.” Inside, you’ll find exhibits like Black Panther: The Revolutionary Art of Emory Douglas and Gordon Matta-Clark: You Are the Measure.
Hammer Museum: This UCLA-affiliated museum encourages cross-cultural understanding and examines the impact of art on society. The collection includes works by classic artists like Monet and van Gogh, as well as more recent contemporary works in painting, sculpture, and media arts.
Check back next week for a round-up of historical museums to continue our exploration of Los Angeles’ culture.
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[…] of Hollywood, check out all the amazing museums that LA has to offer! Last week we covered some of LA’s best art museums, and now we’re exploring historical and cultural […]