I am "classical" by training: my formal education, literature, drawing and painting, music (vocal, instruments, theory)... even science, as I knew it, was classical, or some called it "old school". I even joked with a friend that I was suited to live in the Renaissance or the Industrial Revolution periods. Don't get me wrong -- I do have a degree in Computer Science. Hm... even that sounded last century! LOL.
I must confess that my knowledge of "contemporary art" needs some serious updating; after all, Claude Monet, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Edgar Degas, Pablo Picasso, Georgia O'Keeffe, and Ansel Adams cannot still be considered "present-day". I can sort of recognize Keith Haring and Andy Warhol's work, and that's about it.
Thanks to Eli and Edythe Broad, I can now enjoy their private collection of postwar and contemporary art at The Broad museum in downtown Los Angeles. I was introduced to the creations of Jeff Koons, Robert Therrien, and Roy Lichtenstein. It was also my first time to see Takashi Murakami's work other than a Louis Vuitton bag. The building itself is definitely a work of art, with curved surfaces inside and a geometric "veil" outside.
The Broad's lobby and shaft of the cylindrical glass elevator
Jeff Koon's Balloon Dog (Blue) and Tulips
Robert Therrien's Untitled (plates) and Under The Table
Roy Lichtenstein's Goldfish Bowl
The diversity of subjects and media was mind-blowing. (There was even a glass case of skeletons of birds. Yes, different aviary friends and more.) I have yet to explore the ideas and historical context behind each piece, but I do have a conclusion: art is a very subjective and fluid notion. It transcends gender, race, culture, age, religion, political view, and whatever other ways a person may be defined by. It has evolved across media and influenced (and been influenced by) our way of life. I should seek to imprint my beliefs and my world onto my photographic pieces.
By the way, don't be deceived by the relatively empty space in my photos. They are the direct results of selective angles and incredible patience in the midst of summer crowds. I have yet to see Yayoi Kusama's Infinity Mirrored Room, which was a six-hour wait!!! There are multiple audio tours if you download the mobile app. I am sure I'd be back soon. Wouldn't it be great if I ever get an opportunity to shoot for the museum?!?
Information:
The Broad www.thebroad.org
Free Admission. Advanced tickets available online (recommended), or same-day standby at the museum.
Note: All photos on this page are for personal enjoyment only. Taken with an iPhone 6Plus.