Did you know the “Crossed Currents Sculpture” marks a pivotal time in Los Angeles art? This sculpture represents a broader movement. It highlights the artistic innovation that flourished here after World War II.
Los Angeles artists sought new approaches. They embraced new subjects and techniques. The “Crossed Currents Sculpture” is an example of this experimentation. Artists even worked with materials from local industries. They drew inspiration from surf and car cultures.
The “Crossed Currents Sculpture” reminds us of “Pacific Standard Time”. This was a collaboration of over sixty cultural institutions. They united to tell the story of L.A.’s art scene birth. The Getty Foundation supported this massive project with grants. “Crosscurrents in L.A. Painting and Sculpture, 1950-1970” was a key exhibition. It ran from October 1, 2011, to February 5, 2012, at the Getty Center.
This exhibition took viewers on a dynamic journey. It started with modernism’s emergence. Hard-edge paintings, assemblage sculpture, and large-scale ceramics defined the 1950s. The 1960s brought iconic Pop images of the city. Light and Space art and process painting advanced art in the 1970s.
Think about artists like Frederick Hammersley and David Hockney. Consider Edward and Nancy Kienholz. Remember Ken Price. They showcased their work during this period. The “Crossed Currents Sculpture” connects to their innovative spirit.
The Getty Research Institute and the J. Paul Getty Museum organized the exhibition. “Crosscurrents” aimed to locate the period within historical contexts. Unlike other museums, the Getty doesn’t collect 20th-century paintings and sculpture. This makes the exhibition even more significant. It places L.A.’s art scene in a broader historical perspective.
Imagine the sleek designs and sexy styles of the 1960s L.A. Look. Picture John McCracken’s lacquered plank leaning against a wall. Envision Vija Celmins’ silvery freeway painting. Think of Billy Al Bengston’s bright orange chevron painting. The “Crossed Currents Sculpture” embodies this artistic boldness.
The exhibition included 79 works by 47 artists. Despite the modest gallery sizes, the show made a strong point. Postwar American art wasn’t just about Abstract Expressionism. L.A.’s artists channeled expressionist rigor into ceramics. They cobbled together objects from consumer culture.
The “Crossed Currents Sculpture” stands as a testament to this vibrant era. It reflects the crosscurrents of innovation. It embodies the spirit of Los Angeles art. It is a reminder of a time when artists dared to experiment. They shaped a unique artistic identity.