I live in one of those unique parts of Los Angeles where celebrities live around the corner and yet someone like myself can still afford a modest apartment.
There is a sense of jealously, however, whenever I walk through my neighborhood and past the multi-million dollar mansions. Actually, it’s more of a strong curiosity. I’m just dying to step inside of some of the more spectacular ones and check out the architecture and artwork within.
Yesterday afternoon I had the opportunity to do just that.
The Venice Art Walk is an annual fundraiser for the Venice Family Clinic. I went last year for the first time and quite enjoyed wandering through the many art studios located in Venice Beach. If you happen to be in Los Angeles today the Art Walk begins at 11:30. The cost is $50 (all of which goes to charity) and includes admission to more than 60 studios all within walking distance.
Yesterday, however, was the Art and Architecture Tour. Five private homes near the beachfront were graciously opened to the paying public (also $50) to walk through, ogle, and check out the private art collection contained within.
I have one word to say: Wow.
The houses ranged from a 1915 black-painted craftsmen to very modern designs of steel, glass, and natural materials. Each was also packed with all sorts of paintings, sculptures, and other types of art. And I’m not talking about dogs playing poker or velvet Elvis’ either. The artwork included pieces by Miro, David Hockney, Ed Ruscha, and many others I had never heard of but was told were also famous.
I was more blown away by the architecture, however. Most of the houses had been constructed on small lots but made the most of the space with high ceilings, enormous glass windows, and numerous decks and patios.
I’ve come to the conclusion that I like the way the rich live. Sure, some of the artwork and interior design wasn’t my style, but the houses were simply amazing for the most part. A couple of them even had their architects at hand to answer questions and otherwise be worshiped. Roger Kurath, for example, was hanging out in the kitchen of the Glass residence he designed. I chatted briefly with him about the luxurious choice of wood for the floors: Brazilian walnut raised on a renewable farm.
I can’t recommend this tour enough. If you’ve ever wandered past beautiful houses aching to go inside, this is just the thing for you.
Unfortunately, you’ll have to wait until next May. In the meantime, go on the Venice Art Walk today and check out the studios of some of the very artists who helped populate the art collections in some of the houses I saw yesterday.