Tuesday, December 1, 2009 Getty yourself to L.A.
I recently traveled to Los Angeles to celebrate Thanksgiving with family and take advantage of the extended weekend. It was wonderful to have my immediate family all in one place, and a very special treat that we were able to enjoy our Thanksgiving feast outdoors (it was sunny and 80 degrees). Born and raised in Wisconsin — a Thanksgiving Day picnic is not something I would have ever imagined.
(Photo courtesy of Than Astin)But in addition to enjoying the sunshine and special time with family, I had the privilege of visiting the J. Paul Getty Museum. According to its Web site, the “J. Paul Getty Museum seeks to further knowledge of the visual arts and to nurture critical seeing by collecting, preserving, exhibiting and interpreting works of art of the highest quality.” I have to say with regard to my experience, mission accomplished!
Most everyone, even if you weren’t an art history major, has heard of Van Gogh, Monet or Renoir. And you’ve probably seen some of their greatest works in a book or on a Web site. But seeing them in person was … indescribable! It surprised me at how moved I was by these famous paintings, drawings and sculptures that have stood the test of time for hundreds and hundreds of years. In addition, the architecture of the buildings and views of L.A. from The Getty are downright unforgettable. Check out some of the photos my brother took.
Being in the advertising industry, I often find myself studying ads in magazines and on TV just as art history majors must study these paintings. I pour over each ad with a critical eye thinking, “I would change that, move the logo over there,” or “that tag line is horrible.” Now don’t get me wrong, I wouldn’t dare compare the visual artistry at The Getty to the everyday ads we’re used to seeing, but it was a refreshing change of pace to experience art in its purest, truest form and simply enjoy it as opposed to spending time picking it apart.
So, tell me, what comes to mind when you think about L.A. — the entertainment industry, movie stars, rock stars, big money and fancy cars? I’ll admit it — that was the first thing that used to come to my mind. But not anymore. The next time you have some vacation time to burn, give L.A. a try. Be sure to set a full day aside for The Getty. I promise you, it’ll be worth it — especially if you pack a Thanksgiving Day picnic!
advertising, travel in Miscellaneous 
Reader Comments (1)
Anytime you can get away from the cold and enjoy a feast with family & friends in the warm glow is always a good thing. And being an artist with art history ingrained in my being, that's one spot I would love to visit—The Getty Center. It's something about seeing/experiencing the end result of a master's craft, up close and personal. It's unexplainable. And I know now you totally get it from your visit at The Getty Center. Art is like the expressive gesture we were meant to utilize as a human being. An outlet of emotions to be realized through whatever medium you choose. You do it through words, I do it through graphics, but mostly everyone does it through their heart.
And you're right, when you think L.A., art history is probably the last thing on the list that comes to mind. Not anymore, thanks for changing that status quo for me.
-E