FOUNDER’S LETTER
T
he art scene in Los Angeles is a BIG DEAL. I say that in CAPS, as the whole world is now turning its gaze west to see what the next big thing is in our cultural climate. Not to hate on New York, or any of the other pockets of creativity worldwide—we are just happy to finally have the spotlight pointed in our direction. We are no
longer known as a one-industry town (and a fabulous industry at that!), and it is nice to have the recognition our artists, museums, curators, gallerists and collectors deserve. When speaking with curator Sylvia Chivaratanond—wife of MOCA’s director, Philippe
Vergne (we profile the couple together in their chic Hancock Park abode)—she pointed out that California is home to the best art schools and universities in the country. Young artists flock here for their degrees and stay, having fallen in love with the weather, lifestyle and inexpensive studio spaces. If the best and the brightest are emerging from our backyard, it is safe to say the cultural scene is here for good. This issue is focused on all things art in Los Angeles at this moment. It’s dedicated to what’s new, the ones making their mark, the ones to keep an eye out for and the things insiders are talking about. In the pages ahead, we profile the movers and shakers, from LACMA’s Art + Film Gala
Founder’s Letter
co-chair Eva Chow to gallery owner Esther Kim Varet, who’s leaving an indelible impression on the city’s gallery front. We also take you inside the house of young and oh-so-smart collectors Josh and Sonya Roth. The shared passion and vision in their collection is fascinating. Fall’s modern, streamlined take on fashion pairs seamlessly with a fine-art backdrop. Supermodel and cover girl Karolína Kurková represents this point perfectly in the feature “Clean-Cut,” shot on location at the Ace Gallery in Beverly Hills. One of the hottest artists coming from our streets is Marquis Lewis (aka “Retna”), who first earned recognition in the ’90s with his reinterpretation of bus stop fashion ads. Today, his graffiti background informs his highly collectible contemporary art pieces, which were part of MOCA’s celebrated 2011 “Art on the Streets” exhibit. C takes you inside his studio for a private tour and talk. Ultimately, this issue is meant to continue the cultural conversation. We certainly aren’t done with it, and as a core theme of life in the Golden State, you will continue to see expanded art coverage in future issues. But for now, we are happy to focus on all things creative in this
Jennifer Hale Founder & Editorial Director
WE’D LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU Please send letters to edit@magazinec.com.
C 34 OCTOBER 2014
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multi-industry town!