Perched high on the hillside, this museum and research complex has helped to reinforce LA’s reputation as a cultural epicentre.
The Getty Center, perched on a hillside in the Santa Monica Mountains, was originally built to showcase the vast art collection of oil magnate, J. Paul Getty. This sleek, modern cluster of buildings is home to a range of paintings, drawings, sculpture, photographs and decorative arts from several different eras – from Renaissance to Impressionism and beyond. So there is something to suit everyone.
One of the most notable sights on the LA landscape, the Center was designed by architect Richard Meier. The cluster of brilliant-white buildings is a thing of beauty in its own right, providing an excellent atmosphere to display the exhibits inside at their best. At dusk, the buildings’ sculptured, stark edges, railings, windows, terraces and exterior surfaces catch the fading light, daubing the Center in warm honey and amber hues.
The main Getty Collection includes works by revered artists such as Van Gogh, Monet and Cezanne, along with other fascinating exhibits, all housed in five two-storey pavilions set around an open courtyard. In addition to the permanent collection, the Center also hosts many temporary exhibition, so be sure to check online to see what’s on display during your visit.
Step outside into the beautifully manicured Central Garden – you’ll feel a world away from the buzz of the nearby city. Soothe your soul in this tranquil oasis of calm which contains art of a very natural style, with its tree-lined pathways, over 500 different plant types and maze of beautiful azaleas surrounding a reflecting pool.
The Getty Center is a great place for the whole family to appreciate and learn more about art. There are a number of interactive programmes on to inform visitors of all ages about the museum’s exhibits. Younger children will especially enjoy trying the hands-on activities in the Family Room and taking specially designed journeys through the galleries.
The Getty Center is approximately 13 kilometres by car from Beverly Hills. Admission is free, but there is a charge for on-site parking.
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