Event #1 - Leap Before You Look

For my first event, my buddy and I (attempted) to attend the "Leap Before You Look" exhibit walkthrough at the Hammer Museum in Westwood. Unfortunately, the time listed on the website was actually an hour late. This gave us the opportunity to explore the museum on our own accord. Upon entering the exhibit I learned that it pertained to examining the history of Black Mountain College. I learned that this college was one of experimentation that utilized the arts to educate its students. Though the exhibit consisted of many various sections, the section I found most interesting was the "Scarcity and Creativity" section.

Untitled by Kenneth Noland
Oil On Board

The "Scarcity and Creativity" section reflected the values of Black Mountain College during the Great Depression. Suffering from lack of financials, the college depended upon a school work program that would cook, collect trash, and repair buildings. These bare essentials to keep the college up and running gave the college the motto of "making do." This was evident in the artwork as well. With little money to pump into the arts, much of the productions were extremely simplistic.

Study in Orange, Gray, And Ochre
by W. Pete Jennerjahn
Oil on Masonite

I found this particular area most fascinating because it shows the profound effect the economy and society has upon art. Much like how linear perspective was influenced by scientific advancements at the time, the use of oil on board was reflective of the hard times created by the Great Depression. Without the necessary funds to afford luxury's for more expensive art, the college made do with what they had. This is reflective in the style of art as well. There are no fancy patterns or complex techniques. It is all very simple, just like the other aspects of their lives.

My Friend in the Chair

I would highly recommend the "Leap Before You Look" exhibit at the Hammer Museum. Though the art itself is far from complex, its simplicity and reflective meaning make it an amazing exhibit. It has helped me to realize just how much each era of art represents and reflects the economy and societal standards for the time.....plus, they have these cool chair things you can spin around in.

Selfie with Employee

Image Link:

https://hammer.ucla.edu/fileadmin/media/exhibitions/2016/BMC/BMC_2016_51.jpg