Eastside Eye

Hotel Lautner, Desert Hot Springs, Calif.: Renewed

2012-02-02T10:14:00.000-08:00

Hotel Lautner, Desert Hot Springs, Calif.

Excerpted from the February 2012 Los Feliz Ledger:

Always a challenge, restoring a neglected older property is almost always also a labor of love. Furniture designer Ryan Trowbridge of Los Feliz and his partner interior designer Tracy Beckmann recently completed an extraordinary restoration and thoughtful renovation on a hillside street in Desert Hot Springs.

In 2008, the pair purchased the four-room, 1947-built hotel designed by architect John Lautner—of Silver Lake’s Silver Top. Originally the hotel was to be at the gateway to a 600-acre development. In 1947, Lautner was fresh off his fellowship at Taliesin West under the tutelage of architect Frank Lloyd Wright. The hotel’s design echoes Taliesin’s primitive tents where light, the desert sky and the rugged environment are embraced.

Patio view, Hotel Lautner, Desert Hot Springs, Calif.

Constructed of redwood, glass, concrete and steel, the building’s steel framing cantilevers out, creating a wing-shaped overhang that shades each room. Although the rooms are compact in size, there’s an incredible feeling of expansiveness due to the 180-degree view through a glass wall. Each room opens to a private patio and cactus garden. Lautner was known for his sympathetic way of incorporating the natural world into his buildings.

Purchasing the property took some time due to its uniqueness and its location in a tract home neighborhood. When Trowbridge and Beckmann first saw it, the entire building—including all the redwood—was painted solid white. There have been some additions: bathrooms have been redone in Heath Ceramic tile, three units have restored kitchenettes, one has a full kitchen and furniture is now of-the-period vintage finds.

Among Beckmann’s projects is the hotel at the LA Athletic Club and Mas Malo restaurant downtown. Trowbridge, in addition to his furniture and light constructions, is a partner at Bar 107 in downtown Los Angeles.

Hotel Lautner is now open for overnight stays.

Hotel Lautner
67710 San Antonio St.
Desert Hot Springs, Calif. 92240
760-832-5288

Civic Virtue via the Los Angeles Municipal Art Gallery in Barnsdall Art Park

2012-01-17T21:11:00.000-08:00

Frank Lloyd Wright's OG drawings for Hollyhock House

Excerpted from January 2012's Los Feliz Ledger:

Before LACMA and MOCA, there was the Los Angeles Municipal Art Gallery (LAMAG) in Barnsdall Art Park.

Open now through Feb. 12th, the exhibition Civic Virtue: The Impact of the Los Angeles Municipal Art Gallery and the Watts Towers Arts Center is a retrospective of art culled from more than 80 years of exhibitions and outdoor festivals at the park. Funded by the Getty’s Pacific Standard Time initiative, the wide-ranging show chronicles an important aspect of the city’s cultural history and took two years to research and organize.

Pieces range from architectural plans for Hollyhock House from Frank Lloyd Wright’s studio to historical photographs of Olive Hill to work by contemporary artists like Llyn Foulkes and photographer Julius Shulman. Among the curiosities are works from actor Vincent Price’s art collection, an Andy Warhol short and graphics by Sister Mary Corita, who had the first woman’s solo show at the gallery.

Even for someone who has spent much time on the hill, the impressive breadth of past exhibitions and cultural activities that occurred in the park is a revelation. From the mid-1950s until 1969, 140 exhibitions were held in a temporary pavilion designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. That was demolished in 1969 when the current Municipal Art Gallery opened. The LAMAG has always been city owned and run; it continues to exist in spite of recent funding issues and numerous controversies dating back to Aline Barnsdall’s days. The LAMAG is open Tues. – Sun. from 12- 5 p.m.

Los Angeles Municipal Art Gallery
4800 Hollywood Blvd., LA 90027
323/644-6269

Los Angeles: Take a local art break

2011-12-07T11:29:00.000-08:00


James Franco at Art Platform LA

This holiday season find time to explore art in your neighborhood, as local support is what keeps the visual and performing arts viable.

Galleries: Although numerous art galleries have closed or moved in Silver Lake, Los Feliz and Echo Park—Thinkspace to Culver City for one—many of those that still dot the neighborhood follow a hybrid model of artspace plus commerce. Give them some love this holiday season and give yourself a visual treat.

Sancho in Echo Park at 1549 W. Sunset Blvd.

Two new storefront galleries opened this year. Weekend (at 4634 Hollywood Blvd.) is an artist run gallery. Look for Jay Erker’s multi-media collages at photographs at This is So Much Better, which opens Dec. 2. Sancho, at 1549 W. Sunset in Echo Park, showcases new artists inside and new bands outside at its small backyard performance space.

Celebrating 25 years, a visit to Wacko's La Luz de Jesus Galley in Los Feliz is a step into the wild and imaginative work of talented illustrators, comic book artists and animators and well-known artists such as Shag and Gary Baseman. Selected by owner/curator Billy Shire, there’s always a twist to every exhibition.

Subliminal Projects in Echo Park had a thrilling year of exhibits from Art, Access & Decay: NY 1975-1985 revisiting the highly original 1980s downtown New York art scene to the current show of painter and collagist Billy Al Bengston’s latest work (through Dec. 11).

Alias Books in Atwater features a single artwork show


Bloom at M&A on Silver Lake Blvd.

Materials & Applications (M&A): Since 2002, a Silver Lake Boulevard courtyard has been home to an art lab of inspiring architectural and sculptural installations. Bloom is M&A’s current installation—a 20-foot tall metal flower with solar petals that open and close in response to the sun’s heat.

Stop by and watch the sculpture bloom.

Museums Link Up for Pacific Standard Time: Art in Los Angeles 1945-1980

2011-11-01T20:41:00.000-07:00

Charles & Ray Eames @ LACMA

[Excerpted from November 2011's Los Feliz Ledger]

A grand retrospective of post-war art to the 1980s—that also encompasses architecture, design, street and performance art and more—the Getty Foundation-sponsored Pacific Standard Time is well underway with dozens of exhibitions across town. As mixed media snapshots of an era, the exhibitions reflect differing emotions from sunny post-war optimism to the disaffection of the late 1970s punk rock era.

Take home a souvenir Barbie

At LACMA, California Design, 1930-1965: “Living in a Modern Way,” is a must see for fans and fanciers of mid-century modern design. The casual California way of life, where the gentle climate led to letting the outdoors in, impacted design and material culture.

There are some key contributions from Silver Lake residents such as furniture from both Richard Neutra and Rudolph Schindler. “Silver Lake was an incubator of ideas,” advises Bobbye Tigerman, the museum’s assistant curator of Decorative Arts and Design.

Interesting Silver Lake-made pieces include a prototype for a “Camel” desk (so-called because legs could be altered) from the Neutra-designed VDL house and rarely seen Rudolph Schindler furniture, crafted for the un-built Shep house. So many works on display are very familiar, from the first-ever Barbie and Ken dolls to Heath Ceramic tableware to Eames chairs, demonstrating the lasting power of good design.

The Geffen Contemporary at MOCA hosts "Under the Big Black Sun" (named after an “X” album) that surveys California art from 1974-1981. Dark is the only way to describe the mood of the show, as the art explored reflects the tumult of the 1970s and the questioning of sexual identity and gender roles colored by disturbing geo-political events. Large screens click through historic snapshots—slideshows of chaos. Egyptian president Anwar Sadat’s assassination, the fall of Saigon, the Jonestown mass suicides are backdrop to work by Mike Kelly, Ed Ruscha and Robert Arneson’s famed but long-hidden ceramic portrait of San Francisco mayor George Moscone.

Archival pieces are added in for context including President Richard Nixon’s letter of resignation. In a far corner, a video loop from San Francisco’s Target Video showcases seminal punk bands of the era and artist Raymond Pettibon’s flyers for Black Flag form a colorful collage. [Extremely amusing to those who may have lived through that era.]

Happy camping: Ultra Light campers on Silver Lake Blvd.

2011-09-28T16:51:00.001-07:00

Ultra Light campers

* Upadated 1/7/12: Daily Candy profiles Happier Camper too.

Driving along Silver Lake Blvd. you may notice two colorful campers parked in the auto repair shop that belong to Happier Camper's Derek Michael. Available to rent or to buy (the orange one only) the fiberglass campers are made to be towed by a car (both weigh less than 1200 pounds). Interiors are compact but the windows and solar-powered fan keep them airy. Derek is super-enthusiastic about his travel trailers that he restored--he's driven them to Yosemite, Big Bear and to beach BBQs. You can too!

Colorful Ultra Light campers

Derek shows off the solar-powered interior.

More information at happiercamper.co m

Social smarts: Spacecraft’s nightlife designs

2011-09-01T10:49:00.000-07:00


Back patio at Mohawk Bend

If you've been out in Hollywood in thelast couple of years, then you’ve probably been inside a building remade bySpacecraft. Founded by KristoferKeith, the design/build firm is responsible for Hollywood spots like TheBowery, Kitchen 24, Stout and Boho, which recently moved to the third floor ofHollywood & Highland.

Excerpted from the September Los Feliz Ledger:

In August, Keith’s latest andmost ambitious project opened: the 10,000 square foot Mohawk Bend in Echo Park.Owned by Los Feliz’s Tony Yanow and his wife Amy, the already wildly populargastro pub features a crowd-pleasing menu with savory vegan and vegetarianspecialties, and a changing selection of artisan cocktails from Californiaspirits, craft beer--72 kinds--and wine on tap.

I beams frame Mohawk Bends' interior

Mohawk Bend now occupies a100-year old brick building that once was the Estudio Theater—longtime localsmay recall how it sat empty and decaying for 26 years. To use the building andmeet current building codes, Keith essentially built a building within the vastspace. The exposed steel I beamsframing the interior are not only a design element but meet a structuralrequirement.

Vintage beer signs at Mohawk Bend

Although there are retrotouches, Yanow’s personal collection of vintage beer signs for instance, Keithpurposefully avoided a fake nostalgic look. “I didn’t want something too slickeither,” he explains. “So I went for something down the middle, an industrialbut stylized direction,” he notes. Custom built seating is made from plywood (also exposed); upholstery hasa mid-century orange hue. The floors are concrete and the kitchen is open toview from the long polished concrete bar cast on site.

Dividing the back third ofthe vast room from the main bar and dining area is a 20’ high mosaic glasswall. The patterned glass wall also defines Mohawk Bend’s interior patio, litby skylights and a concrete fireplace. The room’s exposed brick walls helpcreate an urban, citified vibe. As Keith explains, he wanted the space torecall restaurants he’s visited in New York and Toronto that have taken overand enclosed a back alley.

Naya will emerge from Tantra space

Among Keith’s othercommissions is an ongoing transformation of Tantra restaurant, also on SunsetBoulevard. To be renamedNaya, Keith is reconfiguring theIndian restaurant, creating an all white dining room and an adjacent lounge inregal colors. There will also be a back patio for dining. As with all his projects, he stays awayfrom theme-y type designs or a signature personal style that doesn’tnecessarily translate to every assignment. “I like to create a sense of place,” he confirms.

Mohawk Bend

2141 W. Sunset Blvd.

213/483-2337

Miranda July writes and directs "The Future"

2011-08-05T09:27:00.000-07:00


Miranda July's "The Future"/Courtesy of Roadside Attractions

Excerpted from the Los Feliz Ledger:

Opening today (August 5, 2011) at the ArcLight, Hollywood.

All romantic relationships evolve. When there’s a crisis, there’s also drama. Performance artist, author, blogger, screenwriter and director Miranda July’s second film "The Future" investigates one of those pivotal moments couple’s face: when the future seems pre-destined and mapped out. Her approach, mixing abstract and literal, with sci-fi elements and a very engaging talking cat that narrates throughout, results in an original film that’s hard to summarize but emotionally true.

Although some of the film’s pivotal scenes were filmed just south of Sunset on Parkman Avenue, July does not try to make the Silver Lake location or the city a character in the film. Rather, "The Future" stays internalized and focused on character. “I’m never a huge place person,” she said. “I can barely find my way around and I’ve been here for seven years,” said July, who lives in Silver Lake. She finds it telling that when the film’s location changes to Tarzana, “it could seem like another planet. And that’s so L.A., and is so different.”

Inspiration for the film came from a sudden break-up and the utter devastation of being broken up with. The desire to stop time was a feeling that July wanted to address. “While nothing in the movie is literally true, I was trying to capture the anxiety of those new feelings and the finiteness of time,” she said.

Perhaps the most fantastical element to the film is a talking cat named Paw Paw, whose predicament weaves the film together. Paw Paw is quite the memorable feline. Protected by her own enthusiasm, July felt pretty bold about her talking cat. “You can’t hide it or downplay it,” she surmises. “And now we have the cat in the trailer.”

Tim Burton at LACMA

2011-07-09T12:00:00.000-07:00


Tim Burton's site specific animated sculpture for LACMA

Edward Scissorhands costume by Colleen Atwood: magnificent in its details

Balloon Boy by Tim Burton at LACMA

Film fans, this one is for you. Tim Burton at LACMA is a not to be missed exhibition of 700 works (models, drawings, costumes and more) from film director Tim Burton. Extraordinarily creative, Burton is one of the few directors who has maintained his singular visual style throughout his many films. Among the highlights are: Johnny Depp’s costume for Edward Scissorhands (which showcases the talents of costume designer Colleen Atwood), models from The Nightmare Before Christmas and storyboards for Burton’s upcoming film Frankenweenie. Now through Oct. 31^st.

Art walking in Culver City

2011-07-08T13:06:00.000-07:00

Pagoda by Zhang Huan at Blum & Poe

From the Los Feliz Ledger:

Culver City’s annual art walk (held in June this year) was a revelation. Not only was there a vibrant street scene and eclectic galleries, the art was inspiring. Thinkspace Gallery, which moved from Sunset Junction, is now there too and thriving in what has become L.A.’s contemporary art Mecca. On La Cienega’s Gallery Row you’ll find the city’s most renowned and impressive contemporary art space: Blum & Poe. Chinese artist Zhang Huan’s 49 Days exhibit (now through July 9^th) features monumental gray brick sculptures throughout the museum-sized gallery. His work Pagoda, which recalls a stylized Buddhist stupa, is a massive piece and centers around a taxidermied pig and occasionally emits smoke.

LeBasse Projects is presenting street artist Shark Toof’s first solo show: a series of dense and layered paintings that mix graffiti and animal portraiture. If you can’t make the trek to Culver City, the gallery recently opened an annex on Chun King Road in Chinatown.

LeBasse Projects Chinatown L.A. gallery

Gardens at the Huntington: a brief photo interlude

2011-07-05T15:05:00.000-07:00

Japanese garden at the Huntington

Chinese garden at the Huntington

MOCA's Art in the Street rules

2011-05-28T13:45:00.001-07:00

Banksy

Excerpted from the June Los Feliz Ledger:

Street art fans: this show is for you. From graffiti art’s origins to contemporary works by Shepard Fairey and Banksy and dozens of other artists, MOCA’s sprawling Art in the Streets appropriately spills outside the Geffen’s front door and even covers the museum’s wall facing Temple Street. Colorful, vibrant and loud—there are a guitar, drums and a wall of amps that can be played in one gallery—the exhibition is the first to organize these oftentimes outlaw artists’ works into a crowded, somewhat garish and very fun show.

The show is loosely laid out chronologically; there’s some historical information and a photo retrospective of New York’s subway cars covered in graffiti. New York’s Fun Gallery is reconstructed; a Jean-Michel Basquiat hangs in the window. The on-site MOCA store has been imaginatively re-decorated by Subliminal Projects’ Shepard Fairey. Unlike most major exhibitions, this one allows photography. So bring your camera. If you’re not a street art fan, this show may change your mind.

Art in the Streets now through August 8th, 2011 at the Geffen Contemporary.

David Edward Byrd: Creator of iconic pop culture images

2011-05-19T14:52:00.000-07:00

Silver Lake artist David Edward Byrd and his iconic Godspell poster art

Excerpt from May 2011 Los Feliz Ledger:

Jimi Hendrix. Woodstock. The Fillmore East. The Who’s Tommy. Do you associate certain images with these rock-n-roll legends? Illustrator David Edward Byrd is the man behind some of the most iconic album covers and poster art of the late 1960s and 1970s rock era.

A graduate of Carnegie Tech., Byrd got his start serendipitously: his friend worked for promoter Bill Graham who needed some posters made quickly for an upcoming show. And the rest is rock-n-roll history, as Byrd went on to design Jimi Hendrix’s poster art for his headlining show a the Fillmore East in 1968, posters for the Grateful Dead and the Grammy-award wining album cover art for The Who’s Tommy.

For the past 15 years, Byrd has lived in Silver Lake along with partner and mosaic artist Jolino Beserra. Their 1928 bungalow is a colorful pastiche of inlaid mosaics and hand-painted furniture. Stepping inside the house is like walking into a three-dimensional sculpture as mosaics cover many surfaces. “To me it’s important; art is your life, what you touch and see every day,” said Byrd. Also gracing the wall is Byrd’s original line drawing for the classic program cover art for the 1971 Broadway musical Godspell that depicts Jesus with cascading, intertwined locks.“I never felt I had a style, but everyone thinks I do,” said Byrd of his prolific career. “I let the job tell me how to do it.”
His other distinctive art deco-tinged images are found on posters and playbill cover art for original Broadway productions of Jesus Christ Superstar and Stephen Sondheim’s Follies and the poster art for the film Day of the Locust.

Byrd continues illustrating today and his once throwaway rock posters are highly collectible. Beginning June 11th, Glendale’s Brand Art Library Galleries will host a 40-year retrospective of Byrd’s work aptly entitled: The Byrd Show: 40 Years of Art & Design.

Silver Lake meadow opens

2011-04-02T18:14:00.000-07:00


Official opening of Silver Lake Meadow 4/2/11

I went to my first community meeting about the Silver Lake Meadow in 1999. It seemed rather far-fetched at the time that one day there would be walking paths and the long-closed open space--home to coyotes-- would open to people. Happy to be there on Saturday to see the day finally come. Council member Eric Garcetti gave a special shout-out to the tireless efforts of the Committee to Save Silver Lake Reservoirs, now renamed the Silver Lake Reservoirs Conservancy.

Think Georges Seraut: the meadow is dotted with people immediately.

Still to come is the completion of the walking path on Tesla Ave. Locals have already weighed in on the meadow. It's a hit. Sunday saw bocce ball and croquet players, loads of families and posts that the park might stay poop free.


Silver Lake Meadow rules: no dogs, bikes or vending.

The far side of the meadow, closest to the reservoir, is indeed a quiet place.

Neutra Architectural Practice @ 85 to be celebrated in Eagle Rock and Silver Lake

2011-03-20T20:04:00.000-07:00


2440 Neutra Place. Photo by Don Higgins courtesy of Dion Neutra.

Lovell Health House, Los Feliz

Upcoming on April 10, 2011 is a rare chance to tour 10 buildings designed by architect Richard Neutra and his son Dion Netura in Los Angeles, including homes in Silver Lake along Neutra Place. Los Feliz's Lovell Health House (a memorable location in "LA Confidential") will also be open to the public as well as the Neutra Architecture office on Glendale Blvd. The tour is one element of a busy weekend commemorating the 85th anniversary of the practice organized by the non-profit Neutra Institute for Survival Through Design. Activities on Friday night and Saturday will be at the Eagle Rock Recreation Center Clubhouse, also designed by the firm.

Richard Neutra's VDL Research House II, Silver Lake

Saturday night there will be a reception at the VDL Research House II, which is now owned by the Cal Poly Pomona College of Environmental Design. The last time there was a public tour of many of these homes was in 2001. Don't miss out on this chance to look inside these iconic modernist structures that helped establish Silver Lake's reputation as an architectural enclave.

Neutra Architectural Practice at 85 Weekend Celebration: April 8 - 10, 2011

Retro Banksy in honor of Oscar week: Banksy's 2006 Downtown L.A. show

2011-02-24T14:38:00.000-08:00


Welcome to Banksy's September 2006 downtown L.A. show

Yes, there was a painted elephant in the room. I was one of thousands who toured British street artist Banksy's warehouse show in September 2006. Follows are some samples from that exhibition in honor of the still anonymous artist who is painting the town this week in Los Angeles, in one of the most chronicled Oscar week publicity stunts of all time. The elusive auteur is nominated for directing the documentary "Exit Through the Gift Shop."

Poster for Banksy's documentary "Exit through the Gift Shop" from Fairfax Ave.

Whoever he is, he's definitely having some fun and has a wicked sense of humor. Banksy's website chronicles his official works. Good luck at the Academy Awards. Bravo!

Love the Banksy shop.

Previewing 2011 Palm Springs Modernism Week

2011-02-03T16:28:00.000-08:00

A home by E. Stewart Williams in Palm Springs, Calif.

Excerpted from the Los Feliz Ledger:

The crisp, clean lines of modernist homes look fine in Los Angeles but out in Palm Springs’ brilliant sunshine, they gleam and appear of-the-moment. Attributes such as post-and-beam construction, walls of glass that bring the sagebrush closer and the requisite shimmering swimming pool are highlighted in the desert climate. For those that are fans of the style, Palm Springs Modernism Week (February 17-27) is an increasingly popular salute to the genre and its esteemed architects like Richard Neutra, Albert Frey and William Krisel.

More than 16,000 attended the fan fest for all things mid-century in 2010 and this year organizers expect to welcome even more to the 10-day event. Activities range from a Modernism (design) show with 80 dealers, daily architectural tours via double-decker bus, several exclusive home tours, a design-related film series (including Doug Pray’s documentary Art & Copy), a vintage travel trailer show and a retro-styled martini party and fundraiser for the Palm Springs Preservation Foundation.

Jacques-Pierre Caussin, board chairman of Modernism Week, notes the show draws participants from across the U.S. as well as Australia, France and Japan—all interested in the architectural and design style that defined the post-war era. Home tours this year provide a rare glimpse inside some pristine examples such as the E. Stewart Williams-designed Edris House perched on a promontory in the Little Tuscany Estates or his estate for Frank Sinatra with its iconic piano-shaped swimming pool.

E. Stewart Williams-designed Edris House, Palm Springs

Although numerous buildings of the era have been torn down—most famously Richard Neutra’s Maslon House in nearby Rancho Mirage—many have been energetically restored. For those seeking a revived mid-century experience, check out the King’s Highway diner (once a Denny’s) at the Ace Hotel. Built by the firm of Armet & Davis, which also built Silver Lake’s 1958 Googie-styled, Astro Family restaurant, the flagstone walls have been sandblasted clean, the original terrazzo floor revealed and the booths restored in dark leather all under a dramatic vaulted roof.

Googie architecture restored: King's Highway at the Ace Hotel

If you can’t make it out to Palm Springs for Modernism Week, get a modernist fix locally via annual home tours conducted by the CSSLR. Upcoming: Dion Neutra is planning a Richard Neutra site tour for April 10. Or check out Silver Lake News and graphic artist Nate Schulman’s online map that carefully cites more than 230 modernist and modern homes in the area.

Explore Los Angeles via hidden staircases and urban hikes

2011-01-12T17:25:00.000-08:00

Silver Lake Reservoir

From the Los Feliz Ledger:

Thanks to the path around the Silver Lake Reservoir, it is so much easier to “walk the lake.” The opening of the meadow will soon add a scenic loop that will open up views of Silver Lake’s hills. When some out-of-town visitors recently asked for a Silver Lake walking tour, I gave them the fifty-cent tour—an easy amble along the west Silver Lake Boulevard side of the reservoir path and a detour to Neutra Place, with a quick look at the Cove Avenue stairs, and a short break and cup of chai at LA Mill.

Silver Lake resident and writer Charles Fleming has formalized those kinds of tours, adding much historic information via his recently published book Secret Staircases: A Walking Guide to the Historic Staircases of Los Angeles. A detailed guide to 42 walks from Pasadena to Santa Monica, more than half the guidebook looks at stairs and points of interest in Silver Lake, Los Feliz, Hollywood and Echo Park. Most of these public staircases were built in the late 1920s to connect residents in hillside neighborhoods to streetcar lines. Fleming also leads hikes once a month. The next scheduled walk is February 6, 2011. Sign up for the email alert.

“People who come on the walks are doing a lot of things,” Fleming said. “They are into exercise, they want to explore their city and are fascinated by architecture and history,” he said. Each of his tours starts at a café or restaurant and is typically an hour-and-a-half loop; the number of staircases involved determines the hike’s difficulty. “People are touched to find out about these public pathways that harken back to another time,” Fleming said.

The Los Angeles Conservancy conducts eight guided walking tours each month principally of downtown’s historic core and one in nearby Angelino Heights. Open to the public, reservations are suggested.

Bradbury building interior, downtown Los Angeles

I have my own downtown historic walk I give visitors beginning with breakfast at the Nickel Diner, then traversing the Old Bank District to the Bradbury Building, a walk-through the Grand Central Market then a ride on Angel’s Flight railway up to the California Plaza with a look at MOCA and the Walt Disney Hall.

Walking the L.A. River, Red Car River Park, Atwater

Walking path along the L.A. River, Atwater

Also worth exploring: the Atwater side of the Los Angeles River where a paved path extends both north and south of Los Feliz Boulevard. Close to Los Feliz Boulevard, plaques suggest yoga poses to try while stopped in one of several pocket parks planted with native sycamores. And for those needing more inspiration, writer Eric Hiss has put together dozens of urban hikes in his book: City Walks Los Angeles: 50 Adventures on Foot.

Silver Lake's Michael Maltzan Architecture at the Museum of Modern Art

2010-12-01T11:31:00.000-08:00

Exhibition entrance at MOMA

From December 2010's Los Feliz Ledger:

Silver Lake-based architect Michael Maltzan’s project for downtown’s Inner-City Arts is front-and-center at New York’s Museum of Modern Art’s (MOMA) exhibition Small Scale, Big Change: New Architectures of Social Engagement. Running now through Jan. 3rd, the show presents 11 architectural projects from around the world that bring well-designed buildings to underserved, often impoverished communities. Although limited in scale and budget, the projects highlighted have had positive wide-reaching effect in terms of social, political and economic transformation.

The Inner-City Arts project began in 1993; Maltzan was commissioned to remake a former auto body shop on Skid Row into a new home for an after school arts program. He incorporated the body shop’s roll-up doors, making an aesthetically pleasing space that allows seamless movement between inside and outside. For the children who come to the center, the space’s openness is in direct contrast to the more institutional type buildings they typically occupy throughout the day. The building is purposefully all white and meant to enforce a sense of optimism and possibility for the future.

Over time, the now one-acre complex (a micro-city of creativity) has evolved from its modest beginnings. At MOMA, the exhibit maps the project’s evolution and includes a full-size model of the current building, design elevations and a wall-sized architectural photograph that shows Inner-City Arts in context, just east of downtown—an unlikely location for ambitious architecture of this caliber.
“It’s in an area of the city, which is anonymous for most people,” said the architect.

One of the tenets of modern architecture is the idea that architecture can advocate and partner in social change. Maltzan believes that while architecture should aspire to be progressive, the question of change is more complex. “Change at times is good and is at times bad but it is always inevitable. It takes ambition, focus and hard work to make society in a more progressive way; architecture can be an agent in that way,” he said.

Maltzan and his firm have also received acclaim for two other socially conscious projects built for Los Angeles’ Skid Row Housing Trust, and the firm is now in the final stage of drawings for a third mixed-use effort for the Trust, the Star Apartments. For those that may miss the exhibition in New York, a comprehensive view is available on the museum’s website.

Project Restore to renovate Barnsdall Park's Hollyhock House

2010-11-02T17:28:00.000-07:00

Restoration work on Frank Lloyd Wright's Hollyhock House

My article from November 2010's Los Feliz Ledger:

EAST HOLLYWOOD—By the end of 2010, a long-planned restoration of Hollyhock House should get underway.

A public/private partnership, “Project Restore” is the non-profit organization that will oversee construction at the house that includes improvements to the historic garage and seismic retrofitting and foundation work at the house as well fixes to leaking roofs. The $4.359 million allocated for improvements is a combination of state funds, a grant from the National Park Service via Save America’s Treasures program, seismic bond funds and Quimby fees from the city. These funds are not from the city’s general fund, thus the project is not subject to the same budget cuts facing the other facilities in the park.

Per Kevin Jew, project manager for Project Restore, the Hollyhock House garage will be upgraded first so that it can serve as an on-site construction office. Already, initial steps have been taken at the house including the positioning of steel posts (photo above) that will anchor a temporary roof above the patio just off the living room. Portions of the roof have been sheathed in metal to prevent further water damage; those roofs will also be fixed.

Say goodbye to the 80+ year old Canary Island pine at Hollyhock House

One major and highly visible step will be the removal of a stately Canary Island pine on the house’s western facing side. The tree’s roots are damaging retaining walls, according to Jew. Curator Jeffrey Herr confirmed that he is committed to keeping the house open for public tours, which may be re-routed somewhat for public safety’s sake. The renovation will not be completed until late 2013. Summertime’s Friday afternoon wine tasting events, in conjunction with Silver Lake Wine, should not be impacted.

Remaining in a state of limbo: restoration work and the re-opening of Residence A, for decades home to adult art classes. An historic structures report was completed by the city in 2009 that estimated the cost of structural maintenance and restoration at $1.9 million. Funds for that restoration project are not yet in place.

[Out there] At Baja's End: Las Ventanas al Paraiso (Los Feliz Ledger)

2010-09-28T13:03:00.000-07:00

Las Ventanas: View towards the Sea of Cortez

A Treat for the Spirit and the Senses

CABO SAN LUCAS–A lizard skittered across the pebbly path just outside my room. I considered the movement a farewell after four grand days at Las Ventanas al Paraiso, Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. The fact that I took notice of the reptilian salute explains much about my visit to this resort so well located in the desert landscape that one becomes steeped in connectedness (and reconnecting with oneself). I was so relaxed and happy that I relished the details of every last moment: the azure sea, the frigate bird circling above, the lizard crossing my path and the goodbye wave from the staff lined up at the resort’s entryway as we drove away along the date palm tree-lined drive.

Land's End: Cabo San Lucas

Los Cabos has a well-earned reputation as a touristy party spot. The once remote fishing village has been remade into a string of fashionable resorts, condominiums, and shopping areas—the two cabos being Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo. But at Las Ventanas, on the resort corridor, you’re removed from the tequila-infused mayhem and honky-tonk of downtown Cabo San Lucas. One of the nicest resorts I’ve ever been invited to, Las Ventanas was designed to take full advantage of its stepped-down hillside location: the resort is set into the hill, with a hidden system of passageways underneath for staff. You’ll never see a maid’s or room service cart; nothing ordinary spoils your views of the sea and brilliant white clouds, save for the edge of the resort’s infinity pool that melds right into the sea.

In early summer, the humidity had not set in, so although it was warm, a dip in the pool took the heat off. Each pair of low-rise lounges has their own umbrella—a pool butler will quickly adjust the slant to keep the sun at bay. Oh yes, they are pool butlers as well a friendly chap who’ll clean your sunglasses so they are transparent. If you’ve visited Mexico, you’ll know that service can be very friendly and welcoming, at Las Ventanas, they’ve made an art of it, which quite frankly makes for a very pleasant experience when everyone you deal with has a genuine smile on their face.

Sunset at Las Ventanas

Remarkable attention to detail extends to every corner of the property whether it is the raked coarse sand that edges walkways and grounds planted with native cactus and agaves or the raked beach and small thatched huts that shade hammocks or the small gifts at turndown like a mini straw doll magnet.

Lovely but wild Sea of Cortez

Contrasting with the resort’s cocooned environment is the natural wildness of the location: the rough waters out front means that ocean swimming requires a short walk to a nearby cove while rays and sharks are easily spotted offshore. Swells mean a pleasant boat ride to a snorkel spot may engender seasickness (I’m a firm believer in Dramamine) or an encounter with a stinging jellyfish. The same trip yields underwater views of the Sea of Cortez’s vibrant eco-system: I snorkeled amongst a multitudinous school of amberjack following a current. And the sun is brutally direct—sunscreen is a must and sunburns a common souvenir.

Tibetan bowls are part of a meditative spa ritual

Of special note: the compact spa at Las Ventanas which has an outdoor shower (a wonderful treat), an intricately tiled steam room and in-ground soaking pools (one hot, another cool). I took part in a unique meditation ritual: Tibetan bowls are played musically (the sound is unmistakably restful), sage is burned and ancient chants and lute music fills the air. I felt incredibly relaxed as I lay under the latilla (thatched roof), isolating each sense before a restorative massage.

And that’s what you’ll find: clean, windswept ocean breezes, the brilliant sun, the warm waters, the kicky margaritas (made with fresh lime juice with Centanario reposado tequila), the rooms flawlessly decorated in artisan-made furniture, and the ocean-to-table Baja-Mex cuisine, all combine to entice and re-awaken the senses.

Las Ventanas' executive chef Fabrice Guisset

Baja-Mex cuisine reinterprets Mediterranean dishes, like ratatouille, with indigenous Mexican ingredients such as Serrano chili. I spent a pleasant morning watching Fabrice Guisset, the resort’s classically trained executive chef, demonstrate and serve several of the resort’s signature dishes in the open-air demonstration kitchen, set in the green herb garden. Guisset does his best to make the most of the Baja peninsula’s produce and exquisite seafood, as well as the talents and traditional recipes of his Mexican-born staff.

A profusion of rosemary plants heat up in the sun, scenting the air as I learn how to make guacamole properly and a lighter-than-air snapper with gremolatta. Much of the fresh fish served at Las Ventanas is line caught and brought in by local fisherman. Red snapper, Wahoo, and striped sea bass are so fresh—you can often see the fishing boats just offshore—that their pure flavors hardly resemble stateside versions. A simple fish taco is delight because the fish not only just out-of-the-sea but it’s also expertly cooked over a wood fire at the resort’s Sea Grill. (For more on Las Ventanas' cuisine and chef's garden as well as a delicious guacamole recipe, check out my post "A Chef's Garden at Land's End" for GardensToTables.com).

Lamp lighting at day's end.

On the last day of my visit, I took a yoga class on the beach. We looked out to the cerulean blue sea to center ourselves, our instructor taught the class in four languages: charmingly blending her instructions in Spanish, Hindi, French and English. As the class lay on mats in the sand for our last moments of meditation, small songbirds chirped sweetly, as if on cue. And why wouldn’t they? Even the birds and lizards must realize they’ve found paradise.

Excerpted from the Los Feliz Ledger desktop edition 9/1/10.

Resnick Pavillion at Los Angeles County Museum of Art opens soon

2010-09-23T17:50:00.001-07:00

Resnick Pavilion designed by Renzo Piano

Opening to the public on October 2, 2010, Los Angeles County Museum of Art's (LACMA) ultra-contemporary $53 million, 45,000 square foot Lynda and Stewart Resnick Exhibition Pavilion was unveiled to Los Angeles' media today.

An Olmec basalt rock monument

Three exhibitions fill the space. Olmec: Colossal Masterworks of Ancient Mexico features monumental prehistoric stone sculptures as well as smaller objects from Mexico's earliest civilization.

An Olmec Colossal Head 1200-900 BC

Fashioning Fashion is a rare chance to look into history's closet and has nearly 160 exquisitely made examples of clothing and accessories from intricately embroidered silk and muslin dresses to tailored waistcoats to a rather sexy c. 1900 leather corset accessorized with fetish boots.

18th Century-style fashionistas

Eye for the Sensual: Selections from the Resnick Collection has more than 100 fine pieces of furniture, sculpture and decorative art (such as a pair of Art Deco lamps made from bronze cobras) that span centuries and reflect the couple's eclectic taste. The building's numerous skylights face north, so the entire space is flooded with natural light. The palm garden and surrounding landscaping is by Robert Irwin who also designed the Getty Center's landscaping. Check out the impressive new space, BCAM and LACMA's vast holdings for free during the inaugural weekend of October 2-3. Ticket info here.

LACMA's new Resnick Pavilion

Los Angeles County Museum of Art
5905 Wilshire Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90036
323-857-6000

Los Angeles' Natural History Museum 1913 Building restored

2010-09-02T12:33:00.000-07:00

Restored facade at L.A.'s Natural History Museum: the Eagle sculpture soars again

I've been to L.A.'s Natural History Museum many times: the 1913 Building was the home of the infamous Discovery Room--a creepy crawly extravaganza known as the bug room at my house. $100 million dollars later, it's now been redone and houses the new interactive and very modern Age of Mammals exhibition which manages to encompass 65 million years of history in one room.

Age of Mammals at the Natural History Museum

As I wrote in September 2010's Los Feliz Ledger: Among the highlights of the restoration is the return of a picturesque terra cotta eagle sculpture, with 7-foot wingspan, that is dramatically perched above the building’s oft-photographed facade. Guided by 24 pages of original drawings, the architecture and engineering team brought back architectural details, such as the 30 arched windows and glass roof in the wing that holds the Age of Mammals. The restored windows remarkably brighten the space, giving it a very contemporary feel. Newly opened within the historic structure, the perennially popular Age of Mammals was re-designed, with up-close displays behind glass panels that give visitors a way to connect with the deep past. The room that has numerous interactive touch screens, 38 mammal skeletons and digital shorts that illustrate concepts like planetary geology and human evolution, all designed to make science accessible. More than 130 specimens came from the La Brea Tar pits; the suspended whale skeleton above helps put human size in perspective.


Art glass by Judson Studios tops the domed ceiling of the 1913 Building

Look up to see the original, stunning art glass ceiling, now brilliant and luminescent once again. Created by Highland Park’s Judson Studios, the restoration of the rotunda’s domed opalescent art glass ceiling was overseen by David Judson, great-grandson of the initial artist.

And there's still more to come at the museum: new landscaping and entrance will face Exposition Boulevard and a new Age of Dinosaurs Hall. All scheduled to be redone by museum's 100th anniversary in 2013.

Silver Lake Walking Man's local memorials

2010-07-26T14:09:00.000-07:00

An iconic fixture on local streets, Walking Man (aka Dr. Marc Abrams) died last week. Sunday's memorial walk in his honor was covered in the New York Times. The story includes an interview with muralist and artist Nicholas Gagliarducci. (I previously wrote about the mural in May 2009). As the New York Times reports: The mural depicts Dr. Abrams in his trademark light green shorts, reading a newspaper and headed past historic Los Angeles buildings and parts of the city long-since built over.

“There was a sadness about him that might have triggered the old L.A. scene I painted,” Mr. Gagliarducci said. “These parts of our city are things that have disappeared, so it’s like he’s there walking through history.”

There's another Walking Man portrait in the painted mural on the Micheltorena St. Elementary school's Sunset Blvd. facing wall (above). Very saddened by his passing are the youth in the neighborhood who have seen the Walking Man go by their entire lives.

Walk in peace, dude. You will definitely be missed.

The Kids are All Right gets Los Angeles' bohemian side just right

2010-07-07T17:25:00.000-07:00

Shot in-and-around Los Angeles, director Lisa Cholodenko captures Silver Lake and Echo Park's boho aesthetic in "The Kids Are All Right." (With spot-on, smart and funny performances from Annette Bening and Julianne Moore, too!) It's a very well art-directed version of reality with looks that seem torn from the pages of architect Barbara Bestor's Bohemian Modern: Living in Silver Lake. Pictured above is the Echo Park vintage-tinged dining room of Mark Ruffalo's character. Kudos to production designer Julie Berghoff for making his hillside home so believably lived in.

Who wouldn't want to stop in at the locavore restaurant--supplied via a bountiful community garden-- that Ruffalo's character owns? (Exteriors shot in Echo Park). There's a lovely, artfully-lighted outdoor patio, rustic wood panels and a cozy lounge/bar. Imagine Forage's menu meets Malo's bar vibe set in the outdoor garden at Cliff's Edge, complete with a Santa Barbara County-made wine list.

Perhaps there will be a "Sideways"-like bump in sales for the Santa Barbara wines featured in the film including Alma Rosa and Fiddlehead Cellars' Pinot Noir. The movie will be in theaters this Friday. If only the fictional restaurant would open soon too.

John Baldessari at LACMA Los Angeles

2010-06-23T17:38:00.001-07:00

Welcome to conceptual artist John Baldessari's retrospective complete with gift shop at LACMA. The entire second floor of BCAM is now Baldessari-land with 150 works created from 1962 to the present (and a site-specific 60' nose and 60' ear hanging from the building's exterior). John Baldessari: Pure Beauty runs through September 12th. Inaugurated at the Tate Modern in London, the show will move to the MET in NYC after its Los Angeles dates.

Based in Santa Monica and a well-loved fixture of the LA art scene, Baldessari's relationship with the museum has been fruitful, advised LACMA's CEO Michael Govan today. The artist helped design LACMA's logo and also art directed the stunning Rene Magritte exhibition that memorably included Magritte's signature blue sky above.

I've always thought there was much sly humor in his text and photo pieces; his answers to journalists' questions today were peppered with wry observations and funny comments. A self-professed film addict, Baldessari is a fan of film noir and often uses found film stills in his work. He finds that movie imagery (the dying cowboy, for instance), captures stereotypes and cliches that are embedded in a viewer's mind. He seeks to manipulate and tweak them to mean something else.

"I don't think art should be elitist," he advised. To that end, there's a Baldessari iPhone application coming out Friday and a commissioned mixed-media series, entitled "W/Studio 54," on display at Wolfgang Puck's CUT restaurant at the Beverly Wilshire, Four Seasons too.

Los Angeles County Museum of Art

12-8 M/T/Th • Closed Wednesday • 12-9 F • 11-8 S/S
5905 Wilshire Blvd • Los Angeles California 90036

323-857-6000

The Vader Project is back in Los Angeles: 100 customized Darth Vader helmets

2010-06-10T15:35:00.000-07:00

Hey "Star Wars" movie fans and pop-culture enthusiasts: this show is for you. One of the most popular events during the annual Star Wars' fan convention held in Los Angeles in 2007, the Vader Project returns this month (June 11-20) to its own pop-up gallery at 6812 Melrose Ave. The brainchild of my friends Sarah Jo Marks and Dov Kelemer of DKE toys, the Vader Project is 100 Darth Vader helmets customized by artists such as Gary Baseman (above).

At the pop-up gallery you will be able to not only see the one-of-a-kind creations (and some are rather wacky) but also buy a catalog of the entire collection before it goes to auction in July at Freeman's Philadelphia Auction.

You may not get to see "real" "Star Wars" characters like those at the fan-boy convention, but you never know.

Daily from Noon- 6 p.m. June 12-20, 2010
The Vader Project
6812 Melrose Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90036

Dwell on Design to tour Eastside L.A.

2010-05-31T14:43:00.000-07:00

June 24-27, the design and architecture conference Dwell on Design will come to the L.A. Convention Center. Home tours are included in the event. The Sunday June 27 Eastside Home Tour (which starts in Larchmont--not even faux or near Eastside) features six modern homes such as Silver Lake's very fab Auburn 7. Expect hills and hipster enclaves per the website: "This isn't a part of L.A. that many tourists get to see. We head East from Larchmont into Silver Lake and Atwater Village along their peaceful, leafy streets for anyone who dares to stop by. "

Tour if you dare! Screen shot is from the concurrent Mobius LA event.

Ventura, California's Art City and Art Walk

2010-05-27T14:42:00.000-07:00

A few shots from my trip to Ventura's Art Walk (next one is October 16/17). Art City Gallery and Stone Supply was one of my favorite studios: completely outdoors, its home to 20 sculptors. Per my story in the Los Feliz Ledger: For more than 25 years, the acre site has been home to Art City Gallery & Stone Supply: a vast yard that exhibits fine art stone used in sculpture making. The real attraction is the 20 open-air studios where artists create sculptures using materials that range from pebbles and shells to massive monoliths of Canadian marble.

One of the stops on Ventura’s bi-annual art walk, Art City Gallery is one of those places that must be experienced to fully appreciate its tactile nature. Here sculptors are actively manipulating and transforming rock, resulting in visual poetry.

Visit soon—the one-of-a-kind studio is open Wednesday through Sunday and during the Fall Ventura ArtWalk scheduled for October 16th and 17th.

Art City
197 Dubbers Street
Ventura, CA 93001
805-648-1690

Autry National Center's "How Women Made the West"

2010-04-29T15:00:00.000-07:00

Forget the cowgirl, the demure Indian maiden, or the pioneer woman in a sunbonnet perched on a wagon buckboard. At the Autry National Center’s conceptual new exhibit “Home Lands How Women Made the West,” traditional stereotypes of women-out-west are replaced with a new narrative—one that puts women at the center as builders of home and community. “Seeing women in history makes history look different,” is the show’s opening statement and the Autry has done much to create an innovative and interactive exhibition that inserts real women into the American west’s saga.

Follow-up the exhibit with a visit to the bookstore and read my complete take on the exhibition at the Autry National Center in Griffith Park that runs through August 29.

Farmlab is downtown L.A.'s earthy, artistic think tank

2010-04-28T18:11:00.000-07:00

Not a Cornfield was one of Los Angeles’ most creative, ambitious and perhaps largest public art installation. From mid-2005 to March 2006, a blighted industrial vacant lot just north of Chinatown became 32 verdant acres of living sculpture within view of downtown’s skyscrapers.

Conceived by artist Laren Bon and funded by the Annenberg Foundation, the Not a Cornfield legacy continues to grow at Farmlab, now headquartered across from the northernmost end of the State Historic Park (the former Not a Cornfield site).

Farmlab is an artistic think tank and meeting space that visibly demonstrates a more holistic approach to urban living. Junked cars are planters blooming with native plants; 15’ high barrels collect rainwater; and wildflower seeds that were collected in the State Historic Park are distributed for free. Each Friday, a free lunch hour public salon—lunch included—offers a range of thoughtful presentations by local artists, curators, historians and activists.

Read my full piece at the Los Feliz Ledger.

Lance Armstrong above Sunset Blvd. courtesy of Shepard Fairey

2010-03-18T09:27:00.001-07:00

Runners during Sunday's (3/21) L.A. Marathon can look up (and back over their shoulders) for inspiration: Shepard Fairey's wall-sized portrait of cyclist and Live Strong's Lance Armstrong is above Sunset Blvd on Studio One's exterior at the corner of Elysian Valley and Sunset Blvds. BTW Fairey's gallery, Subliminal Projects, is selling the official 25th anniversary LA Marathon screen print by Studio One's Cleon Peterson.

Defiance/Courage/Action is the title I presume.

Beverly Hills' Gagosian Gallery Addition Brings Out the Stars

2010-03-11T14:59:00.000-08:00

For Housingwatch.com: a glittery opening for Andreas Gursky --worth checking out his manipulated digital satellite images of oceans. New space is impressive--bowtruss roof saved, skylights and a massive sliding door to the street.

Beverly Hills' Gagosian Gallery Addition Brings Out the Stars

Silver Lake's silent film history at Farmlab public salon Friday 3/10

2010-03-08T16:45:00.000-08:00

From Farmlab: HOORAY FOR EDENDALE!

Image: Mack Sennett directing "Stolen Magic" (Keystone, 1915), Hans Koenekamp is the cameraman. Courtesy: Robert Birchard

A celebration of the birth and early growth of the movie industry in Los Angeles. Award winning film editor, writer and film industry historian Robert S. Bichard presents over 100 images exploring the first movie studios in L.A--which were established a century ago. The Selig Polyscope, Keystone, Pathe, Mixville and Norbig studios constituted L.A.’s first “Studio Row” in the 1910’s, and Hooray For Edendale! will take you inside the gates of these long-vanished pioneer film factories. This is a must attend event for anyone interested in the history of Los Angeles and the movies.

Farmlab Public Salon

Farmlab, 1745 N. Spring St., Los Angeles, 90012

Robert S. Birchard
Friday, March 12, 2010 @ Noon, Free Admission

ManifestEquality Hollyood shows art with a message

2010-03-02T22:57:00.000-08:00

This is one Oscar week event in Hollywood that's not just about the glitz. In a former dingy Big Lots space on Vine St. in Hollywood, ManifestEquality explores the theme of equal rights for all in a pop-up art exhibition that features dozens of contemporary artists. "The gallery has gathered international and local artists in a call to present art that unites art, activism and the message of universal equal rights into a memorable multi-media moment," explains organizers Jennifer Gross, Apple Via and Yosi Sergant in a prepared statement.

Commune design gets props for remarkably transforming the mundane big box retail space into a of-the-moment gallery partitioned by angled walls perforated by recycled windows that uses every inch of space creatively--even the barbed wire fence outside. There are nighttime performances and DJs Wednesday and Saturday nights. Shepard Fairey DJ'd the opening night preview; look for his work in the show along with other artists such as Robbie Conal, Gary Baseman, Amanda Visell and a memorable building wall-sized justice mural by graffiti artist El Mac outside.

MANIFESTEQUALITY
1341 Vine Street
(between Hollywood & Fountain)

Los Angeles, CA 90028-8141

March 3rd - March 7th, 2010
Wed & Thurs - 11:00 am - 6:00 pm
Friday - 11:00 am - 10:00 pm
Sat & Sun - 10:00 am - 6:00 pm

Atwater's New Modern-Home Subdivision The Mews

2010-02-24T16:10:00.000-08:00

L.A.'s New Modern-Home Subdivision

Went to The Mews open house this weekend in Atwater. I really liked the open plan and light-filled, brand new construction with "green" building features like solar panels. Location not so much: betwixt the 5 freeway and train tracks, on the street that parallels the massive Costco lot, though close enough to walk to the Village bakery on Los Feliz. Please comment if you check it out!

Rodeo Drive's fashion houses attract design star-power for housingwatch.com

2010-02-19T10:26:00.000-08:00

Rodeo Drive's fashion houses attract design star-power

A round-up for housingwatch of famous architects and their retail projects on Rodeo Drive including OMA Rem Koolhaas' Prada store, Angela Missoni (designer of the all white Missoni boutique) and Frank Lloyd Wright's Anderton Court. Inside, the Missoni boutique evokes memories of Milan's famous shopping street Via della Spiga, with a long corridor punctuated by doors to smaller rooms. Look for Converse shoes made with Missoni fabric in April at the just opened flagship store.

I think the Chanel store is a well executed example of architecture serving the brand. Just looks elegant.

Custom Yoka Bear show at Black Maria Gallery

2010-02-14T13:43:00.001-08:00

100.1, originally uploaded by DKE Toys.

Blank bear to art: from the team that brought you the Darth Vader mask show comes customized Yoka's by artists at Atwater's Black Maria Gallery. Show runs through March 2.

Opening: Thursday, Feb 18, 7:00 – 10:30pm
Black Maria Gallery
3137 Glendale Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90039

Wolfgang Puck unveils Oscar food: Smoked salmon and chocolate statuettes

2010-02-12T22:31:00.000-08:00

Wolfgang Puck unveils Oscar food: Smoked salmon and chocolate statuettes

A guest post for Eating LA: always impressed by how many press people show up for a dinner dance preview. Spago's Sherry Yard shows off her heavenly baked Alaska.

Airstreams, Modern Homes Draw Fans to Palm Springs

2010-02-12T22:28:00.000-08:00

Airstreams, Modern Homes Draw Fans to Palm Springs

Super-cool looking Airstream trailers, house tours and vintage collectibles: Palm Springs Modernism Week as seen in HousingWatch.

Irving Penn's Small Trades at Getty Center

2010-01-08T15:40:00.000-08:00

File this in the better late than never category: checked out photographer Irving Penn's "Small Trades" exhibition of 252 platinum and rich palladium prints at the Getty this week which closes Sunday 1/10. Penn worked with these negatives over 50 years creating intimate but revealing studio portraits of tradespeople in London, New York and Paris. These psychological portraits, set against a neutral background, are revealing decades later and emblematic of Penn's fascination with "dissolving cultures"and worlds that would disappear. Some of these trades are long lost: no need for coal or ice men these days or even chamois sellers.

The Getty Center is open until 9 p.m. on Saturdays. Parking is free after 5 p.m. on Saturday as well, otherwise it's now $15. Admission is free.

L.A. Arts Month

2010-01-06T14:42:00.000-08:00

Howdy 2010! Postings were light at the end of the year: lots of conflicts such as paid work, family (Martin returned from six months in India!), the holidays, a biennial bout with some kind of flu and a new blogging gig for AOL TripVine: LA Suite Life where I cover all that's new, different and hopefully, interesting about SoCal hotels.

In anticipation of L.A. Arts Month (more at blogdowntown.com), I checked out the second half of MOCA's Collection: MOCA's First Thirty Years their comprehensive historical survey of the past 70 years of contemporary art at the Geffen Contemporary (with an emphasis on NY and Calif. artists). Felt like a trip to my own office as many of the artists showcased are among my faves and I look at their work everyday. Ok MOCA has the originals but it was a pleasure to see them given the grand museum treatment: Edward Ruscha, Barbara Kruger and Hiroshi Sugimoto's black-and-white photos of luminescent cinema screens. A number of John Baldessaris and Catherine Opie's still searing self-portrait are here as well. Looking forward to seeing the first half of the show at MOCA Grand Ave. soon.

Griffith Park Festival of Lights Goes "Green"

2009-12-02T15:48:00.000-08:00

Thanks to the heads up from L.A. Observed today regarding the annual DWP sponsored Holiday Light Festival (cutesy designs + Xmas music and traffic jam) through the park is vehicle free December 4 - 17. Bikers are welcome this Thursday Dec. 3 from 5 p.m.- 10 p.m., which is great news. I rode my bike along with the cars one year and it was truly unpleasant. Check the website for parking info.

Photo is from December 2008: Snow on Mt. Wilson. Saw some this weekend dusting Mt. Baldy.

Silver Lake Library: An ultra-modern library for the 'hood

2009-11-21T17:52:00.000-08:00

The original one-room Silver Lake Library:

Modernist lines and glass sliding doors at the entrance:

Solar panels:

The book sorting machine

The Friends of the Silver Lake Library hosted a well-attended Open House today. More than 30 people were waiting before the door opened at 10 a.m. I thought it was to see the new library; I think they were lined up for the generous spread of treats and free Starbucks coffee. Lots to check out. A small display of historic photos (hence my pic of the original library--the neighborhood has definitely changed!), a bright corner for reading, free Wi-Fi, all new books and computers, a comfortable area for kids, books and audio books for teens, a shelf devoted to local authors like Janet Fitch, automated check out and return (a little ridiculous I'd say) and everything nice and clean.

Many upcoming events including a new book club (first meeting Wed. Dec 2 at 6:30 p.m.), a talk by columnist and humorist Joel Stein (Sat. Dec 12 at 2 p.m.) and on January 22 a fundraiser at Silver Lake Wine.

Library hours may change due to budget issues.

Silver Lake Library

2411 Glendale Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90039 - (323) 913-7451

Mon. 10-8, Tue. Noon-8, Wed. 10-8, Thu. Noon-8, Fri. 10-6, Sat. 10-6, Sun. Closed

Halloween special: Haunted Silver Lake

2009-10-30T11:57:00.000-07:00

My neighborhood takes Halloween very seriously. Lots of artists and art directors make the 'hood feel really creepy. Beware!

Downtown L.A.: Nickel diner on Food Network

2009-10-24T13:59:00.000-07:00

I'm a new but enthusiastic fan of the Nickel Diner in Downtown LA: I've been there three times this month, first to taste the house-made, maple syrup and bacon-topped donut (above) and now I'm a fan of the breakfast choices like the huevos rancheros and egg scrambles accompanied by baked polenta. Lots of prep and fresh ingredients goes into these dishes. The restaurant closed for a day a couple months back so Guy Fieri of the Food Network's Diners, Drive-ins and Dives could capture the secrets to the above donut and fried catfish with brussels sprout hash. Watch the show and you'll be on your way downtown in flash--just don't go on Mondays as the restaurant is closed. Bring change for the parking meters--street parking is now $3/hour.

Silver Lake: Canada Geese make an appearance.

2009-10-24T13:50:00.000-07:00

Earlier this week, more than five dozen, plump honking Canada Geese* made a migratory pit-stop on the cement shores of the Silver Lake Reservoir. They prefer to graze on fields and lawns and have made themselves at home --this week anyway--on the northwest corner of non-bird ball-topped reservoir.

*Thanks to the reader who corrected the name. Seem to have flown off to warmer climes in any case.

The Scenesters: Fun poster art

2009-10-23T13:10:00.000-07:00

I interviewed the creative team behind this film who are part of The Vactioneers comedy troupe known for "The Googling" (Google it to find their youtube clips). Most of the independently made film was shot in and around Silver Lake/Los Feliz. More info @ TheScenstermovie.com. Movie plays Sunday @ The Arc Light. Hope it comes to the Vista too!

Silver Lake: John Marshall High School's new football field

2009-10-23T11:07:00.000-07:00

After 78 years John Marshall High School gets a regulation-sized football field today complete with electronic scoreboard, a Mission-style pergola entrance, newish stands (looks like they just moved and rehabbed the old ones) and poles for lights (but no lights). Surrounding the astro-turf field will be one those nice cushy running tracks; for the dedication and homecoming game tonight it's asphalt. Go Barristers! Tour with Councilmember Tom LaBonge @ 4p.m. Dedication at 5 p.m. Varsity football game (no lights!) is at 6 p.m.

*Updated: Football Hall of Famer Mike Haynes (center) was on hand along with council member Tom LaBonge and various LAUSD officials to dedicate the new field. Still to come: boys/girls bathrooms, a proper concession stand, a long jump and the synthetic running track. Marshall won both games on the new field! The kids were all super-excited and really energized.

Silver Lake: Library to open Nov. 16

2009-10-19T15:13:00.000-07:00

Exterior Silver Lake Library

15th Annual Music Box Steps Day this Saturday 10/17/09

2009-10-14T09:09:00.000-07:00

An event that melds movie history and Silver Lake's public most famous 133-step staircase is this weekend. From council member Eric Garcetti: The Silver Lake Improvement Association will present the 15th Annual Music Box Steps Day on Saturday, October 17. SLIA, which founded the annual event, will also be celebrating its 20th anniversary. The Silver Lake Neighborhood Council Arts and Culture Committee is an event co-sponsor. Come join the fun from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Laurel and Hardy Park (between 923 and 935 Vendome Street). There will be free food, Laurel and Hardy look-alikes, live entertainment, a raffle, and a screening of the 1932 Oscar-winning short, The Music Box.

The master of California light: Wayne Thiebaud at Pasadena Museum of California Art

2009-10-05T17:51:00.000-07:00

Vibrant and still painting every day, Wayne Thiebaud is one of California's best painters. A 70-year career retrospective of his drawings and paintings just opened at the Pasadena Museum of California Art that includes early student work to recent beach and seascapes. A professor at U.C. Davis for more than 40 years, Thiebaud was patient when answering questions regarding his techniques and work habits. Some paintings take 10 years, others a day, he revealed. He and his wife divide their time between Davis and a studio on San Francisco's Portrero Hill. His colorful cityscapes are a mix of real and imagined San Francisco--several large canvases that capture the city's crazy angles are included in the exhibition. His more well known works elevate the ordinary--cupcakes, bakery cases, fruit--to almost monumental status. All without irony, contends exhibition organizer Dr. Steven Nash. The exhibition runs through January 31, 2010. Don't miss it!

Wayne Thiebaud, Two Kneeling Figures, 1966, oil on canvas, Collection of Paul LeBaron Thiebaud, © Wayne Thiebaud/
Licensed by VAGA, New York, NY

Silver Lake: Fixies take over the streets.

2009-09-23T14:42:00.000-07:00

Notice anything about the bike riders passing you lately? More than likely they are riding a fixie (see above) a snazzy fixed gear and usually no brake bike popularized by SF bike messengers, now the bike-du-jour. The teenage boys I know are fixated on them; if you saw Saturday night's Crank Mob fly by, you probably saw hundreds. My son's came via the Internet from Bikes Direct. We're already good customers of Safety Cycle since these bikes seem to require TLC.

Fourth Frogtown Artwalk this Saturday 9/19

2009-09-14T15:40:00.000-07:00

Fourth edition of the Frogtown ArtWalk is this Saturday. More than 30 artists participate with dozens of open studios. Great combo of local art (images above are from 2008) and tacos (let's hope the taco lady and table returns to RAC Design Build). The boundaries of Elysian Valley (Frogtown) are the 2 freeway to the north, the 110 freeway to the south, the Los Angeles River to the east, and the 5 freeway to the west. The studios will be open from 5-10 PM. There's free street parking but I've ridden my bike in past years as the L.A. River bike path is one of Frogtown's borders. Party and music are at NOMAD at 1839 Blake Ave.

Vintage view of Atwater: Postcard of Hyperion Bridge c. 1937

2009-09-01T17:03:00.001-07:00

Postcard of Hyperion Bridge c. 1937

August was a busy month--with assignments (see links) and two trips out of town. First trip was Santa Barbara

where I tend to visit the same places: La Super Rica (who can resist those al pastor tacos) and several really great thrift stores.

Found this c. 1937 postcard of a vintage view of the Hyperion Bridge at State St.'s Antique Alley.

Check out the Red Car on its way to Glendale. Notice the absence of 5 freeway or Glendale office towers.

The river has a somewhat natural state--none of those gruesome cement embankments.

The Red Car bridge trestles are still there today.

A must see documentary: "The Cove"

2009-07-31T10:57:00.001-07:00

"The Cove's" Ric O'Barry

Without a doubt one of the best films of the year is "The Cove." (Variety's review is here.) I interviewed the film's protagonist and famed dolphin activist Ric O'Barry recently. Growing up in Miami, I spent many hours at the Seaquarium where O'Barry worked training dolphins. In fact, he helped train the first orca in captivity. He's since had a major change of heart after holding the original "Flipper" dolphin (named Kathy BTW) as she died in his arms. "The Cove" follows O'Barry as he targets a terrible dolphin capture and slaughter in the small seaside village of Taiji, Japan. Without giving too much away, the documentary is structured like a thriller and covers O'Barry and a team of activists as they work to expose the dolphins' plight.

Don’t miss “The Cove!”

Echo Park: Fallen Fruit cooks up a public fruit jam on Alvarado.

2009-07-27T14:05:00.000-07:00

Expect a sticky mess this Sunday August 2 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. when art collective Fallen Fruit and Machine Project put on the fourth annual public fruit jam. Pictures above are from last year's event which was very popular (300 jam makers). My suggestions: arrive early and mix up basic fruits. I was a little too creative last year: no takers yet for my fig, kumquat and mixed fruit melange---the more sedate plum and strawberry jam was a keeper.

Santa Monica: La Monica Ballroom redux

2009-07-22T11:40:00.000-07:00

The 25th annual Thursday Twilight Dance series continues at the Santa Monica pier. This Thursday, organizers are re-creating (kind of) the famed La Monica Ballroom (rendering above) which would have been 85 years old had it not been demolished in the 1960s. A major call went out to local dance troupes and vintage types--expect them all on the 100' dance floor this Thurs. Swing music by the Squirrel Nut Zippers.

I covered the event and more for the LAT Summer Hot List.

Silver Lake: The new library exposed.

2009-07-20T17:29:00.000-07:00

Curbed LA (top photo from Curbed) got an exclusive sneak peek at the Silver Lake Library. It's looking rather clean, bright and modern; an homage in part to nearby Neutra houses and the Neutra Office building on Glendale. Looking forward to opening day which should be sometime in September though there's no official date. I wrote about the design back in 2006 for the Los Feliz Ledger. Here's an excerpt:

Coming in 2008 (that didn't happen) to the corner of Silver Lake and Glendale Boulevards: a new branch library that will not only be a community and cultural hub but also an inventive “green” building at one of the most traveled gateways to the area.

After investigating several alternate sites in the neighborhood, the city’s library construction department selected the vacant corner, once a gas station and most recently, the seasonal home to a Delancey Street Christmas tree lot. Previously, both Burger King and Walgreens had also considered the tract. In addition to the empty parcel, the adjacent mustard-colored auto shop will be demolished (that happened, thankfully), contributing 7000 square feet to the library’s future home.

Similar in size to the Edendale branch library, Silver Lake’s 13,200 square foot state-of-the-art library will include a public meeting room, a glass box reading room, welcoming plaza, and will be “green” – utilizing sustainable building practices such as solar power. (Panels are installed). Parking will be underground with the garage entrance lined up with Brier Avenue and Gingergrass’ main entrance. There will be no public driveway off congested Silver Lake Boulevard.

Architectural firm M2A Architects worked closely with the community developing the Silver Lake branch, their fifth library project. The Arroyo Seco Regional Branch Library is one of their designs, as are the Allessandro Apartments in nearby Echo Park. “We tried to take architectural cues from modernist Silver Lake,” explains architect Barry Milofsky of the design. “There is a sense of light, air and space and an indoor/outdoor relationship.” Stone and glass will be the branch’s primary construction materials. A glass spine extends through the building that will provide natural light in the day and a dramatic glow to the plaza at night. Mature sycamore trees will frame the library’s entrance. Low planters, benches and landscape finishes to the curb are part of the plan from landscape architect Mia Lehrer.

Construction is expected take 18 months and is slated to start by the first quarter of 2007. (Start date was later; construction still ongoing). Budget for the building is $9.5 million, with funding from library bond funds. A non-profit Friends of the Silver Lake Library has been established to help further the library’s collection as well to support and generate enthusiasm for the long-awaited branch.

Downtown L.A.: (500) Days of Summer

2009-07-15T13:55:00.001-07:00

Summer (Zoey Deschanel) is the girl, Tom (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) is the boy in this boy-meets-girl, then the timeline is fractured, post-modern romantic comedy. Also, starring in the film: downtown L.A. (Picture is the interior of Summer's very 40s-style apartment ). I tried to figure out many of the locations: Broadway Bar, Bradbury Building, the fountains of the DWP building and Angel Knolls Park among them. The Redwood Bar & Grill has a featured role; my favorite booth looked mighty fine on the big screen. Music is great and so are the downtown backdrops. Film opens this Friday July 17.

Union Station: East LA Meets Napa benefit July 10th

2009-07-08T17:14:00.000-07:00

Friday night July 10th check out East LA Meets Napa a benefit for AltaMed Health Services that promises a mix of great modern Mexican food and wine with a Latino heritage. Food GPS went last year. Union Station is one of L.A. great public spaces; ticket counters stand empty in the great hall these days and there's plenty of room on the patios outside. Should be a great summer night.

Friday 6-9 p.m. at Union Station.

Downtown L.A.: Under the Cirque Berzerk bigtop

2009-07-02T10:07:00.000-07:00

A byproduct of the Burning Man festival, Cirque Berzerk is a raucous, musical alternative circus now at the LA Historic Park (the former Cornfields site). Yes, there are clowns and acrobats but there are twists: vintage lingerie-clad aerialists, a sexy pas de deux features two sculpted men, a drunken stilt walker, a little person as comic relief (not so alternative) and a bar with Hornitos margaritas. At sunset, downtown's skyscrapers catch the light and huge torches straight from the high desert playa ignite outside the bigtop. There are five weekend performances and the show runs through July 26. A New Orleans-style troupe performs during the intermission and after the show to keep the party going. If you're a Goldstar member, discount tickets are available. Definitely a fun and different date night and most everyone was really friendly---guess it's the playa dust.

Pacific Palisades: Happy 60th Birthday Eames House!

2009-07-01T09:04:00.000-07:00

A favorite of visiting Europeans, The Eames House (Case Study House #8) is one of the Southern California's finest examples of domestic architecture. I took these pictures on a visit sponsored by the Hollyhock House docents in 2005. This year the house celebrates 60 years: Charles and Ray Eames moved into their home that overlooks an open meadow on Christmas Eve 1949. Made from industrial materials, its simplicity and harmony with is site is really inspiring. The property is open for self-guided tours Monday - Saturdays. $5/person is the suggested contribution. Peek into the windows and open doors to see the house's interior almost exactly as Ray Eames left it.

Hollywood: Paying respect to Michael Jackson

2009-06-26T15:45:00.000-07:00

A very "Day of the Locust" afternoon in Hollywood as streams of people gather to place flowers by Michael Jackson's star in front of the Mann Chinese. An outpouring of people and emotion that reminded me of the tributes and flowers to Princess Di outside Kensington Palace but with some only-in-L.A. craziness and media frenzy: 10 satellite news trucks, LAPD on horseback, helicopter buzzing overhead and all of Hollywood Blvd.'s best impersonators out in full force asking folks if they want a picture (Elvis, Marilyn, 2 Captain Jack Sparrows, 2 Obamas, Spider-Man, Batman & the Joker and Dorothy from the Wizard of OZ).

I met Michael backstage at a Queen show at the LA Forum--Freddie Mercury was still in the band so it was decades ago. I was there to interview the band for Videowest. I asked Michael if he wanted to be interviewed. No, he politely declined, but he told me he recognized me from TV. Not sure what channel he was watching since I've never been on TV, but I was too awed to correct him (and he had two huge bodyguards in the days before anyone had bodyguards). He went to say hi to Freddie and watched the show from the side of the stage. Quiet and soft-spoken--he thanked me for getting him a soft drink--and a music fan--that's how I remember him. Take a final bow.

Silver Lake: LA Mill and Intelligentsia make the tabloids thanks to Chris Pine.

2009-06-25T13:08:00.000-07:00

At Atwater's Salon Mix I caught up on the tabloids from the last couple of weeks. Thanks to "Star Trek's" success (I'm a fan!), Chris Pine appears in numerous People and US Weekly issues with his favorite local haunts in the background. The actor likes to spread his coffee love around: the paparazzi have tracked him outside both LA Mill and Intelligentsia.

Silver Lake: Bossy but nice graffiti artist tags reservoir path.

2009-06-18T13:52:00.001-07:00

"Enjoy the view. Enjoy this minute. Tell them you love them." Lots of sweet platitudes from an anonymous Silver Lake graffiti artist who's added colorful and very legible instructions to the reservoir's walking path. Fingers crossed they used soy-based chalk, which will dissolve into biodegradable dust that will decompose the walking path's most annoying aspect--dog poop. And yes, the jasmine does smell nice.

Echo Park: Brite Spot gets a cameo in "Food, Inc."

2009-06-12T12:45:00.000-07:00

"Food, Inc." is the documentary du jour: an elegantly crafted investigation of U.S. government food policies and a hard look at agri-business giants. Most disturbing is footage shot in cattle slaughter houses, chicken farms and the terrible killing floor for pigs. Echo Park's Brite Spot has an early cameo: writer Eric Schlosser is interviewed at the counter and served up a very appetizing looking cheeseburger and fries. Eat before the movie; that cheeseburger will lose its appeal but you'll learn the hard truth about America's food chain.

Silver Lake: Enormous Tiny Art Show tonight 6/5/09

2009-06-05T11:03:00.000-07:00

Steve and Alyssa Melendrez at The Living Room are sponsoring this sure to be crowd pleasing art show and sale tonight: tiny art (can't wait to see that) offered at less than $500/piece. Vodka, too! 8p.m.-11p.m. @ 3531 Sunset Blvd., L.A., 90026.

Interview Project @ David Lynch.com

2009-06-01T10:33:00.000-07:00

I've been following film director David Lynch's career since "Eraserhead" hit college campuses back in the day: check out the vintage poster (above). Presented by Hampshire College's "Films in Discretion" the packed screening was...wait for it...$1. "The-lady-in-the-radiator" promises that "in heaven everything is fine." Today, David Lynch.com launches "Interview Project," an online road trip that profiles people found at the edge of the highway. Evocative sound and music and up-close-and-personal profiles; the first portrait, entitled "Jess" is remarkably profound. Maybe Jess' long-lost family will find him because of it. Check it out.

Sunset Blvd: Local muralist at work on Local's wall

2009-05-28T14:27:00.001-07:00

Muralist and local Silver Lake artist Nicky Gagliarducci is recreating vintage L.A. just to the west of the restaurant Local on Sunset Blvd. The project meets with Local's ethos: Nicky is a locally sourced artist capturing an historic local scene. I watched him work recently; he's going to add a surrealistic touch to 25' long montage: Silver Lake's own walking doctor. It's not the quietest place to paint but he was quite genial about the process.

Downtown L.A.: Chaya downtown art + happy hour

2009-05-20T14:25:00.000-07:00

A wonderful combo platter of art and well priced happy hour is on the menu at Chaya Downtown Los Angeles. Thanks to Mattatouille for this great shot of Stuart Haygarth's imaginative chandelier created from the plastic flotsam of daily life. Reviewed in today's L.A.T., S. Irene Virbila couldn't help but notice the piece, a standout in any setting. Haygarth is based in London; typically his work is from found pieces, this one is not.
Find yourself on the patio for happy hour. I went with Eating LA last month; missing on the menu was a happy hour sake but the manager promised to add it. Chaya Venice's happy hour remains a personal fave: always lively. Downtown's version is a bit more button down but comes with a city view.

Century City: Spiffy new photo showcase at the Annenberg Space for Photography

2009-05-14T13:42:00.000-07:00

The newly opened Annenberg Space for Photography joins the list of premiere places in town to view and experience fine art photography that includes the Getty Center (where Paul Outerbridge and Jo Ann Callis exhibitions are on view until August) and the G. Ray Hawkins Gallery, Paul Kopeikin Gallery and Peter Fetterman Gallery. Hours are Wed-Sun 11 a.m. - 6 p.m., 2000 Avenue of the Stars, Century City. Parking on site is validated. At the press preview, I captured photographer Douglas Kirkland's on set photos (left) as well as Greg Gorman's elegant black and white portraits.

What I learned in New Orleans

2009-05-08T18:12:00.000-07:00

There’s a significant difference between high ground and low ground: one floods, the other doesn’t. Every house has a brand new refrigerator. 2009 has been the windiest ever in the city. Wildlife, except for pigeons, mega-roaches and winged, swarming termites, are rare. (I did see one small heron and some turtles though.) Traditionally, storms have been a method of redevelopment; damaged buildings are not repaired, demolished instead to remove residents. If potholes are big enough, folks dump their trash in it, and sometimes-- old refrigerators. Like the 40^th annual Jazz & Heritage Fest, Bonnie Raitt and Neil Young have stood the test of time. Per a Sunday morning music lesson with Dr. John, there are killer weird things that happen in New Orleans that happen nowhere else. That’s for sure.

Gulf shrimp, oysters and crawfish taste better when they haven’t been transported thousands of miles. How to make eggs sardou by chef Lee Richardson of Ashley's at the Capital Hotel in Little Rock, Arkansas: béchamel sauce, artichokes and quick sautéed spinach. The key to a good crawfish boil is the seasoning: extras can include whole cloves of garlic, potatoes, mushrooms, asparagus and corn. How to eat a crawfish: twist off head, pinch off tail fins, squeeze tail, nip and twist the meat out of the shell. Abita makes several types of brews including a seasonal strawberry beer and the Turbo Dog—all go down mighty quick. Sazeracs have never gone out of style in New Orleans and can be counted on at cocktail hour. Even at high noon, cemeteries here, with their whitened above ground tombs, are eerie and trippy. As my friend writer Patty Friedmann says, visit soon, because New Orleans doesn’t promise to be there.

M&A: A net for mega-fish on Silver Lake Blvd.

2009-04-27T11:03:00.001-07:00

The talented minds at Silver Lake Blvd.'s Materials & Applications have a new installation that's part of a current project that aims for pure experimentation. Made from nylon strap and rip-stop fabric, it kind of reminds me of a section of fish net--though the fish they're aiming to catch are rather big. Check it out as you pass by on Silver Lake Blvd. (Photo courtesy of the M& A website).

Media watch: Daily Show, Anthem Magazine & Audi

2009-04-09T18:02:00.000-07:00

The Daily Show did their own mash up of Shepard Fairey's Obama poster on Monday night combining it with his Obey logo part of an amusing bit on Fox News and how Americans are now under tyrannical rule aka the Democrats are in the majority. Next up an Audi commercial shot at John Marshall High school called "School's Out." Also amusing because the commercial makers came in and repainted the school's doors a nice dark brown and replanted the front lawn so now there is a lawn. Kids in the school are a nice diverse lot and picture perfect as you'd expect but night-and-day away from Marshall's actual student body. And Anthem Magazine's current issue features and interview and photo spread with Rashida Jones, of "The Office" now "Parks & Recreation," shot at Neutra's VDL house on Silver Lake Blvd.

University Park: Where Trojans are in bloom - Los Angeles Times

2009-04-08T09:01:00.001-07:00

Where Trojans are in bloom - Los Angeles Times

Researching this story for the LAT led me to a very cool poetic art piece by Jenny Holzer, one of my favorite artists. Tucked away on the far south side of the campus, "Blacklist," is her homage to the Hollywood Ten, screenwriters who were banned from Hollywood for their political affiliations. Each writer has a quote etched in granite--all surround a fountain within the school's sculpture garden. While the weather is still cool, Exposition Park and the USC campus to the north are well worth a visit for architecture (Frank Gehry) and art (Robert Graham's Olympic sculptures).

Silver Lake: "Washington Field" TV pilot in the 'hood

2009-04-02T12:05:00.000-07:00

Don't worry it wasn't the real FBI bomb squad on Riverside Dr.--though the neighborhood unfortunately has had plenty of serious action lately. Yesterday I spotted the "FBI Bomb Squad," a smoking car, fire truck and a large film crew on Riverside Drive.
Per the Washington D.C. biz journal, "Washington Field" is spinoff from the exec producer of "24" about an elite team of FBI bomb specialists who handle crises and (presumably) dramatic situations. There's already a fan blog for the show.

Silver Lake photo contest: Pictures at high noon Saturday

2009-03-15T17:57:00.000-07:00

Lots of trees in bloom these days. Here is a Pink Lapacho (Tabebuia impetiginosa) more commonly know as a pink trumpet tree, originally a native of South America, now in full bloom all over Los Angeles. I took the picture just after noon on Maltman Ave. which would almost qualify it for tomorrow's photo contest sponsored by the Arts & Culture committee of the Silver Lake Neighborhood Council.

The contest requires a photo taken at hi-noon on Saturday March 21, in and around Silver Lake. Photos will be exhibited at a later date.

Silver Lake: Mystery cell phone booth art meets anon critic

2009-03-04T15:16:00.000-08:00

Not really sure who put up this cell phone booth at Silver Lake and Effie streets--heard it was a neighborhood couple, set decorator and a guy with a vintage Rambler--it's their second effort. The other one at Silver Lake and Glendale Blvds. got some amusing comments on CurbedLA.com--that's my photo on the post. I liked being described as a nice reader.

The new booth has been tossed about and all the phone books got wet and soggy. A not so nice anonymous critic has added their own commentary to the piece: "To the creative genius who dumped this phony booth your punishment shall be a lifetime ban from the Cleos and a permanent assignment writing copy for cat litter." Ouch, that's a slap, although I'm not sure what the Cleo's --given out for creative commercials--has to do with this installation.

Perhaps the mobile critic would prefer this sponsored show of even wackier cell phone booth art via SFin Budapest:

NY Times: A very eastside eye on Eagle Rock

2009-02-25T17:42:00.000-08:00

The New York Times' Scott Timberg has an interesting take on the possible return of Eagle Rock to its pre-hipster days sans Swork and artist-run boutiques. What brings many "hipsters" and creative types to this still pretty quiet enclave are the schools which have not changed. And Eagle Rock Athletic center's sports' program is one of the best in the city. I don't think Trader Joe's is going anywhere either nor is Auntie Em's or the Colorado Wine Co. No matter what, it's way better than the early 1980s when the only thing going for Eagle Rock was The Bucket--seriously.

Academy Awards hangover: from the trenches

2009-02-23T11:47:00.000-08:00

After months of writing about the Oscars, including interviewing a number of winners such as Philippe Petit the subject of best documentary "Man on Wire" (above right) and Anthony Dodd Mantle "Slumdog Millionaire's" cinematographer, I'm facing withdrawal from Awards season. Branding, venues for parties, documentaries (Tia Lessin of "Trouble the Water" and Scott Hamilton Kennedy of "The Garden" (above left) ), production design and where Oscar winners go for r-and-r are some topics I've covered. I thought this year's films were better than usual; can't say that the actual Academy Awards telecast matched the artistry of the films. Was a rather long show and somewhat painful--past acting winners pontificating on merits of current nominees, ouch!--though it was great to see Eva Marie Saint and Sophia Loren on stage. Not sure where producers were going with musical numbers except medley of best songs actually worked well.

Spent some time at beauty suites getting improved on by beauty pros; IDA's honoring of documentary nominees is always a great night: though I know times are tough but whole potatoes as crudite are not that appealing on a party buffet. Lots o' star sightings. Thrilling to see Padma of Bravo's "Top Chef"in person though I'm not sure why she was at IFC's party after the Indie Spirit Awards but just part of the week's blend of real and surreal.

Tales from the blog-o-sphere: Jon Stewart's 10th Anniversary on the Daily Show

2009-02-06T17:45:00.000-08:00

Thank goodness for my digital recorder: I never miss an episode of "The Daily Show" and was thrilled when I was assigned two stories re: Jon Stewart's 10th anniversary on the show. I interviewed two of the show's producers on where the humor will come from now that Bush and his team are gone. Other fans of the show include "real" newsers, also chronicled. But because I was out of town, I missed my ten nanoseconds of linkage fame recounted here: a link and 63 comments on the Huffington Post, a link and 33 comments from Rocky Talk Live of the Rocky Mt. News, a spot on the daily briefings list of journalism.org, and because I interviewed Anderson Cooper, a link on this Anderson Cooper fan blog. All hail Google alert!

Road trip: San Francisco's California Academy of Sciences

2009-02-02T08:51:00.000-08:00

We're on a rooftop in the picture above, though it looks like a Sci-Fi movie set. It's a living roof-- covered in wildflowers and skylights. Spent an afternoon at the California Academy of Sciences in San Francisco and if you remember the former building, all dark, depressing and crowded inside, then the new structure will be quite the revelation. I compare the building to Los Angeles' very own BCAM, also by architect Renzo Piano, in this month's LF Ledger.

If you've ever had to accompany young children to a natural history or science museum, you'll totally appreciate the innovations (natural light!) and the inspiring bio-sphere like structure (below) that houses the Rain Forests of the World exhibit where butterflies and birds fly free.

Los Angeles: new year, new camera

2009-01-17T14:44:00.000-08:00

Santa Monica at sunset in mid-winter: just another 80+ degree day in the Southland this week. Took a few snaps with my new Canon Powershot while out on a site visit of the revamped art deco-styled Hotel Shangri-la. More pics of that when it's all done--rooftop deck has a nice curved balcony and gorgeous views. 2009 should be an interesting year.

Robert Graham: An appreciation

2008-12-29T13:07:00.000-08:00

Artist and sculptor Robert Graham died over the weekend here in Los Angeles. I've always admired his elegant sculptures. At left, is his "Torso" the best thing about Beverly Hills' "Walk of Style." His bronze works at the entrance to the Coliseum were the high point of the L.A.'s Olympic arts project. His Mary appears to float over the monumental bronze doors at downtown's Cathedral of our Lady of the Angels. He considered that work one of his best.

Shepard Fairey creates the cover of Time Mag.

2008-12-22T16:05:00.000-08:00

Earlier this year I interviewed artist/illustrator and gallery owner (Subliminal Projects) Shepard Fairey. He's now the cover artist for Time Magazine person of the year issue--very cool. Save your Obama posters and stickers--now they're real collectibles. He's got a major show upcoming in Boston at the ICA--also great. Entitled Shepard Fairey: Supply & Demand -- opens Feb. 6. Congrats!

Desert Hot Springs: The Palm Springs alternative

2008-12-16T08:42:00.000-08:00

Imagine finding water in the desert? Cabot Yerxa, a pioneer and traveller, was the first Anglo to find water in Desert Hot Springs. He then spent the rest of his life building his own version of a Hopi-style pueblo (above) from scavenged materials. Now a house museum, Cabot's Pueblo Museum, is the oddest attraction in Desert Hot Springs. The first time I visited the house ten years ago with my kids, there was an even odder caretaker who gave us a personal, private tour. These days, the museum is securely fenced in and run by the city--still weird but not so wild. The primary reason for visiting the city is to take in the waters as I outlined in today's L.A. Times.

While staying at the mid-century styled Miracle Manor Resort, with its twice-filtered mineral waters, I had a water massage. Very trippy indeed--not necessarily the most restorative massage ever (it's certainly not a deep tissue) but because of the water and movement, it was more like a journey back in geologic time.

Definitely different.

Eastside gets groovier: Silver Lake walk path to open

2008-12-12T13:28:00.000-08:00

After years of meeting and master plans and a prolonged construction schedule, the final leg of the Silver Lake walking path will officially open on Dec 20--that's the date for the ribbon cutting, hard to know how they'll keep joggers, walkers and dogs off the crushed granite path until then as it looks very inviting. Took some pictures yesterday as I walked next to the path; really changes your perspective and John Lautner's Silver Top seemed to stand out even more.

The Richard Neutra-designed homes on Silver Lake Blvd. are now seen in full perspective. Great for jogging/walking architectural buffs. Years in the making--I recall going to a master plan meeting 10+ years ago--the path is definitely a safer alternative to walking on busy Silver Lake Blvd and it's great that we have more open public space. Can't wait to circle the reservoir in style!

Chickens are big with writers and residents!

2008-12-06T12:09:00.000-08:00

From the it's in the Zeitgeist department: today's L.A. Times Home section covers urbanites with chickens and their fancy coops. Erik Knutzen and Kelly Coyne get a great plug for their blog. And egg-laying hens get more positive press. Roosters not so much.

Plucky modern homesteaders in Echo Park

2008-12-04T16:27:00.001-08:00

I admire Kelly Coyne and Erik Knutzen: they're part of a new generation of homesteaders that promote modern self-sufficiency. In their case: a farm in Echo Park within view of my old house that produces almost all of their veggies and some fruit. I liked the fact that they've turned the entire landscape into mostly edible plants like artichokes, tomatoes, beds of lettuce, herbs with some very healthy and well-protected chickens (hawks, coyotes and raccoons are the local predators). They were kind enough to share some "farm fresh" eggs when I visited them for an interview for the Los Feliz Ledger. They have a very useful blog; the most recent post includes plans for a cocktail bar in your hand built fallout shelter--definitely a must have.

Happy Thanksgiving! Shared traditions.

2008-11-26T15:43:00.000-08:00

Just listening to the horns honking down at Ralph's--a holiday tradition here as shoppers go mad the days before every holiday. At dinner, my family has a tradition of each person saying what they are thankful for. Here's my thanks in advance: I'm thankful for my health, my sons who are in excellent health, my family, my friends, my boyfriend, my happiness and my sense of humor, which I'm proud to say I've passed down to my kids. Work is certainly slowing down but adversity presents opportunity. I'm happy to be here! Let's feast!

Ghettogloss presents the Bronx Zoo

2008-11-14T16:49:00.000-08:00

Fiora Boes at Silver Lake's Ghettogloss is the princess of artsy and entertaining art events. Tonight a showcase of art created at her summer event, the Bronx Zoo opens. As pictured, it was cha-cha ladies in peek-a-boo bikinis or spangly showgirl outfits plus rather intimidating gorilla masks. Ferocious faces + supple girly-girls, people went ape-shit for this drawing class with a sexy twist. Dozens of artists have submitted their work: sketches, photos and some crazy collages.

Worth a peek tonight thru Dec. 1st at 2380 Glendale Blvd.

Voting for happy chickens, high speed trains and equal rights.

2008-11-04T10:22:00.001-08:00

If my polling place at the Silver Lake Recreation Center is any indication, voting percentages will be historic today. I was happy to see so many friends and neighbors and our ubiquitous council member Tom LaBonge all in line and hopefully voting for the Democratic candidate, happier chickens via Proposition 2, high speed trains and equal marriage rights.

Los Angeles celebrates Day of the Dead

2008-11-01T12:22:00.000-07:00

Growing up in Florida we never celebrated "Dia de los Muertos" or "Day of the Dead"--Nov. 1 is All Saints Day, a holy day of obligation for Catholics. After living in Los Angeles I've come to like Day of the Dead--a holiday with its own set of unique rituals (sugar skulls, hanging out in cemeteries, folk art pieces) and mini-industry of events. I went to the first Day of the Dead event at Hollywood Forever Cemetery nine years ago (photos are from 2006). Since then, the event has amplified with more music, vendors homemade altars and an admission charge.

I'm hoping to go to Self-Help Graphics 35th annual event. Artist Leo Limon promised he'd be in a booth as the Kiss of Death.

Halloween special: Haunted L.A.

2008-10-29T17:16:00.000-07:00

Tis the season for numerous blog posts on hauntings a timely subject and always fascinating due to lack of empirical evidence but a certainty by those who have been haunted or "felt something" that can only be described as a dreadful feeling. A nice piece from Jessica Wakeman on haunted hotels in America. I was intrigued to read paranormal expert Dom Villella's explanation on "residual energy," the idea that because so many people pass through hotels, and engage in some crazy and deadly activity on occasion, there's a possibility that they leave these energy footprints. In Los Angeles, there's definitely that vibe at the Biltmore Hotel downtown (allegedly haunted by a former manager--ex-employees are frequently cited as possible ghosts at allegedly haunted hotels). Another possibility: the Standard Hollywood where its prior incarnation as an old age home has meant apparitions of elderly customers in the coffee shop (who disappear) and funny stuff like tops popping off liquor bottles on their own. Crazy, undocumented activities reported to me, however, I've been to a haunted house in Tennessee which served as field hospital in the Civil War, a theme explored in Wakeman's piece. And I was recently at the Huntington Gardens and Library and walked (alone) to Henry and Arabella Huntington's mausoleum. (They are buried on the grounds is this neo-classic white marble tomb (above) by architect John Russell Pope who also designed the Jefferson Memorial). There's definitely some "residual energy"---Mrs. Huntington was known to be stern and strong-willed--a visit with an infrared camera may be in order.

Halloween special: Queen Mary scares up ghosts

2008-10-28T17:56:00.000-07:00

Do you feel the scary vibe? Hallway (above) is a corridor on the Queen Mary, a classic luxury ocean liner, now permanently berthed in Long Beach's harbor (also scary, because of polluted runoff--but that's another story). The ship promotes its haunted history via a rather cheesy Ghosts & Legends tour that for all its silliness does provide some scares and takes you way down into the bowels of the ship. Scariest of all is a night on the ship: it creaks and makes odd noises and the corridors tend to bring up memories of "The Shining."

Cleverly utilizing the ship's grandeur and spooky rep, a recent episode of "Ghost Whisperer" filled it with soggy, wicked ghosts and took full advantage of the glorious Art Deco grand salon. Whether it's truly haunted or not, the ship is indeed a legend and is worth a visit. You can decide for yourself about the paranormal extras.

In LA theaters: "Secrecy" from Rob Moss and Peter Galison

2008-10-20T17:54:00.000-07:00

The first film selected for the Sundance 2008 Film Festival, per festival honcho Geoff Gilmore, "Secrecy" is the kind of film that gives thoughtful audience members nightmares. The amount of money spent on keeping things secret (an estimated $8 billion annually) and the sheer numbers of documents and information deemed top secret are really disheartening, if not plain dumb. Directors Peter Galison and Robb Moss dissect the thorny subject which is really an issue of control and power. (Moss directed an excellent documentary "The Same River Twice"--idealist rafters in 1978 and where they are today; very watchable.) "Secrecy" is not a history of U.S. secrecy but rather a weaving together of examples that expose how bureaucratic secrecy is a real threat to democracy and a free and open society. Bloggers and googlers take note. Where does all Google info go? One of the many provocative ideas raised in the film now playing at Laemmle Music Hall.

Silver Lake: Goodbye art deco gas station

2008-10-13T09:51:00.000-07:00

Despite efforts from concerned neighbors, historic preservationists and activists as recounted on Curbed LA, the art deco styled former gas station at Lakewood and Rowena/Glendale Avenues was razed on Friday. Yes, the building wasn't in the greatest shape but it had potential and more importantly was part of my neighborhood's historic fabric. Surrounded by residences and adjacent to low-rise commercial buildings (one mid-century, one an Art Deco gem from the May Company's architect), there was opportunity to restore the station (perhaps remake it into a cafe, skate park or pocket park--Glendale managed to create one at Adams Square,on a former gas station site). Diane Keaton makes a good case for the green benefits of historic preservation in her LA Times piece. Destroying iconic buildings, like the Ambassador Hotel, wastes resources she argues. Definitely and it also, in this sad little case, wastes an opportunity to keep history alive. Instead I'm betting we get an ugly stucco mini-mall that will only add to the corner's already dicey traffic patterns. Adios streamline modern; hello dreck.

Los Angeles: Happy 85th birthday to the Biltmore!

2008-10-06T11:07:00.000-07:00

Yes, 1923 was a grand year for downtown Los Angeles--a brand new hotel overlooking then gracious (now beyond help) Pershing Square. Enjoyed a celebratory night of libations, historic cars and an abbreviated tour from the LA Conservancy at the very artistically lit Biltmore Hotel. Loved the ceiling stencils and mythological figures--one can never have too many muses and nymphs; the indoor pool, decorated in glorious hand-crafted tile, is one of L.A.'s hidden gems (makes an appearance in "Bugsy" BTW). An endless supply of sushi from Sai Sai, the hotel's Japanese restaurant, and passed hors d'ouevres (Escargot! Lobster gelee! crab cakes!) and top shelf liquor in the gilt and chandelier-lit ballroom made for a retro-styled evening.

Here's hoping we all look so good at 85.

Los Feliz Art Walk: Strolling the boulevard

2008-10-03T14:43:00.001-07:00

I'm a dedicated art walker: Venice, Silver Lake (when there was the art crawl), Pasadena, Frogtown, Chinatown and now there's the Los Feliz Art Walk. Last month it was low-key and pleasant, not a lot of art but great tacos at Yuca's on Hollywood, a fun scene at Fresh Pressed and great views from Barnsdall Art Park. I wrote about it for the Los Feliz Ledger, (though it's not online yet). Gotta support art in the 'hood! Scheduled for the first Friday of the month: Oct. 3, Nov. 7 and Dec. 5. Start in the courtyard of Hollywood Lutheran Church--Pastor Dan Hooper is one of the organizers and a terrific guy.

Los Angeles: Sunshine & Struggle @ Pico House Gallery

2008-10-02T12:06:00.000-07:00

Sunshine and Struggle: The Italian Experience in Los Angeles 1827-1927 at the Pico House Gallery.

Kudos to my friend Mariann Gatto who organized this exhibition and also wrote the accompanying book. This exhibition looks at the economic contribution and cultural legacy of Italian immigrants and Los Angeles’ own vanished Little Italy, once located in the heart of the city, close to El Pueblo Historical Monument and present-day Chinatown. Historic photographs and artifacts are presented that illuminate the Italian experience.

October 1 through November 15 at the Pico House Gallery at El Pueblo Historical Monument, 424 North Main St. There's an opening Saturday night 10/4 @ 7 p.m.