Glitter art on view at Jones Coffee Roasters. Photo: Teri Bond
It’s the last few weeks of the term, and your top priorities are probably work, sleep and the next cup of coffee. But what about re-charging your creative batteries?
Art Center is nestled within one of the most innovative and entrepreneurial environments in the world. But be honest: When was the last time you pried yourself away from your projects and prototypes to find inspiration among Los Angeles’ vast creative riches?
We ask you this not to taunt or torment you about artistic opportunities missed. Really we’re here to simply offer you some incentive to take a break from your creative toils to remind yourself that great art and design is not created in a vacuum. Or a wind tunnel, post office or hillside haven. It requires stimulation. Don’t worry. We’ve got you covered with the suggestions below.
Try the hidden gem on Fairfax, Family, which is stocked with a unique selection of art books, prints and zines you won’t find at chain retail stores. Be sure to check out the mini art gallery in the back. Just a few yards away is the Supreme store, where you’ll spend less time shopping than hanging out or taking advantage of the indoor skate ramp. You might even run into Tyler, The Creator.
Closer to campus, you can get the best-of your much-needed coffee at Jones Coffee Roasters, where you may run into Art Center chairs or faculty. The open space is a great studying spot, and there is always interesting art on the walls.
If the outdoors are your thing, think beyond the well-trodden beaches, and discover serenity on the trails of the San Gabriel Mountains or just have a picnic at Barnsdall Art Park.
And what about tapping into the network of students beyond Art Center? If you haven’t taken advantage yet, check out College Night at the Getty Center next Monday (April 7th) from 6–9:30 pm. In addition to a night of special tours, live music, hands-on art projects and scavenger hunts, this year includes an amazing photography exhibition featuring Art Center alum Hiroshi Sugimoto’s (BFA 72). You can visit and plan for the day when you will have your own solo show at a world-renowned museum.
After you’ve had your fill of entertainment, culture and nature, make something beautiful, interesting, or downright ugly (whatever suits you) to enter in the Art & Design Open Market, sponsored by One Colorado. It is a great opportunity for Art Center students, faculty, alumni and staff to sell original artwork in Pasadena’s One Colorado Courtyard. The highly popular, bi-annual, outdoor art market is devoted to selling work by emerging and established artists, and is open to all media of original fine art. Participating is free and the event is open to the public and free-of-charge.
Whatever your interests are, get out and do something. Check out the city beyond the school campus, even if for an hour. What are your favorite LA spots when you’re looking for a creative boost?
