Emerging from a city once characterized by post office hour desolation Downtown LA has been at the center of the Los Angeles art scene for far longer than most realize. Before world class museums or glittering galleries DTLA was for the artists.
From the 1970s through the 1990s artists flocked to the cheap industrial spaces of Downtown LA. Sky high paned windows allowed light drenched blank slate concrete spaces perfect for grassroots galleries. They were ideal for paint strewn studios and makeshift stages for experimental installations. Groundbreaking performance art also thrived here.
The area transformed into a 24/7 hive of energy and creativity. It was often called the SoHo of the West. This history shapes Downtown LA’s position in the art world today. Though transformed it remains vital. Let’s explore ways to enjoy art in DTLA.
Opened in 1986 MOCA Grand Avenue was designed by Architect Arata Isozaki. He drew inspiration from LA pop culture. Today this location hosts the museum’s main galleries. It showcases a stunning permanent collection and ever changing special exhibitions.
Down the street is The Geffen Contemporary at MOCA. Formerly The Temporary Contemporary it opened in 1983. This 40000 square foot gallery is built in a former police car warehouse. Decorated architect Frank Gehry renovated it. Admission to both museums is free.
In 2015 Downtown LA welcomed contemporary art museum The Broad. Famed architects Diller Scofidio + Renfro designed it with Gensler. The 120000 square foot museum showcases the Broad’s impressive collection.
Sitting across from Frank Gehry’s Walt Disney Concert Hall the 140 million dollar building is impossible to miss. Its whimsical modern exterior hints at the art within. Admission to The Broad is also free but reservations are suggested.
New technologies are creating new opportunities for public art and DTLA is at the forefront. Exhibitions range from augmented reality to projection mapping. They add new dimensions to your experience of the city. Grand Ave Augmented is an interactive augmented reality art experience. It was created to showcase the major cultural institutions and public spaces of Grand Avenue. It features original art works by local artists. Enjoy it anytime with a smart phone for free.
LUMINEX wowed attendees with art projections on buildings. In September 2022 LUMINEX 2.0 Projected Realities stunned thousands again. It featured thought provoking digital artwork. It illuminated the contrast between Projections and Realities. Twelve artists transformed buildings with monumental works of art in a five block radius of DTLA.
There are dozens of art galleries in Downtown LA. The Hive Gallery on Spring Street founded in 2005 is a unique gallery/studio experience. The Hive features five artists a month two full galleries 25 working artists and an artist made item store. Cirrus Gallery opened in 1970 and moved to Downtown LA in 1979. It helped shape the LA Arts District.
Hauser & Wirth opened in DTLA in 2016. Occupying a former flour mill the gallery presents art exhibitions events and community based programming. It also offers an art book store and Manuela a foodie favored restaurant. From museums to galleries to public installations Downtown LA is a vibrant hub of artistic expression.