A visit to the J. Paul Getty Museum in Los Angeles is awe-inspiring. Sitting atop the mountains that overlook the 405 freeway, bustling traffic below seems a far-off nuisance and the view of the ocean it breathtaking, if you overlook the smog. A trip to the Getty is a day well spent for any guest; from the most particular art aficionado to a credulous visitor who simply admires the beautiful architecture. On top of it all, admittance is free.
The Getty Center is a sanctuary to art from all around the world, and the different mediums that range from ancient centuries to recent times. This is so important in today’s sometimes disheartened society, desensitized by the speed of modern life. The collection of artwork at the Getty exposes the limitless possibilities of self expression. The various exhibitions feature: manuscripts, drawings, paintings, photographs, sculpture, ancient art and changing exhibitions. The Getty puts top priority into preserving the art they acquire so it can be enjoyed and appreciatedfor many more generations. An exhibition running until May 14 features the landscape paintings of 19th century, French artist, Gustave Courbet. Courbet’s oil on canvas paintings are very mood influenced, with deep colors and settings that never really show any human presence in them. The photography gallery showing the work of Robert Adams is also featured through this month. His prints focused on the developments and the exploitations of residential areas, but left more to be desired.
The outdoor central garden of the museum is amazingly colorful and maze-like. There are grassy knolls and pathways lined with people soaking up the sun, listening to the sound gardens, and relaxing among the lavish plant life. The museum exterior is as picturesque as the sculptures; its white Italian stone walls cascade against the sprawling horizon. The gallery interiors are almost stark, but warm and completely welcoming to museum goers. The museum design itself is arguably as visually stimulating as the art it contains.
The J. Paul Getty museum is open to the public Tuesday through Sunday. No reservations are needed, parking is $7. For questions call (310) 440-7300 or check out what’s going on at the Getty at www.getty.edu
