Thousands of spectators come together on the streets of downtown Los Angeles to participate in this months’ Art Walk to view galleries and celebrate art.
The LA Art Walk is a self guided free walk of galleries in the downtown area and has grown to attract over 25,000 people each month. According to the Art Walk website, the event is regularly held on every second Thursday of the month from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. although some galleries may be open as early as 12 p.m.
“The Los Angeles Downtown Art Walk is centered in the Historic Core, but the impact is felt all Downtown,” said Qathryn Brehm, executive director for Art Walk. “There is always something different and the streets are filled with people have a great time.”
With the lively Art Walk lounge and 30 galleries to choose from, there are many emerging artists with all kinds of talent to showcase. Brehm said It’s another way for the community to come together and admire artwork.
“I think Art Walk is one of the most vibrant artistic events in the greater Los Angeles area,” said Petra Wright, Co-Curator for Gloria Delson Contemporary Arts gallery. “It’s an event that lights up the city, and brings together art lovers from other cities and the greater Los Angeles area. It’s a great way to celebrate the rebirth of the art scene in LA.”
For people like David Reyes, intern for The Hive Gallery, the Art Walk is more than just about the galleries. Artists put their heart into what they’re passionate about and share their ideas with the public.
“If I’m lucky I’ll sell my work, but meeting new people every month is the best part of the experience,” said David Reyes, intern for The Hive Gallery. “I rarely leave the Hive Gallery on Art Walk, so I definitely appreciate people stopping by my space and sharing their art with me.”
Aside from music and assorted food trucks, spectators will always have something catching their eye whether be in the gallery or outside in the street.
“My favorite part of it [Art walk] is seeing and experiencing these artworks in real life,” said Katlynne DeGuzman, 19-year-old photography major. “It’s so much more intimate to do, rather than view it from your phone or computer screens.”
The next Art Walk will be on Nov. 12, for more information visit: downtownartwalk.org
