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Urban Light: A Symphony of Los Angeles History

Experience the glow of history at Urban Light, a landmark art installation in the heart of Los Angeles. Open 24/7, free to all!

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Urban Light, an iconic art installation by Chris Burden, graces the entrance of the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA). Featuring 202 restored cast iron street lamps from the 1920s and 1930s, it embodies Los Angeles' architectural heritage and artistic innovation, offering a captivating experience day and night.

A brief summary to Public Art Urban Light

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit during early morning or late evening for a less crowded, more serene experience.
  • The Urban Light exhibit is free to visit, even though admission to LACMA is not.
  • Share your photos on social media to contribute to the installation's vibrant online presence.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    Urban Light is conveniently located on Wilshire Boulevard and is accessible via multiple bus routes. From downtown Los Angeles, take the Metro Bus Line 20 to Wilshire/Curson. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes and costs $1.75. Several other bus lines also serve the area.

  • Walking

    If you are near the La Brea Tar Pits, walk east along Wilshire Boulevard for about 5 minutes to reach Urban Light. The installation is located at the entrance to LACMA, on your left.

  • Ride Share

    Use a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft. Enter '5905 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036' as your destination. The drop-off point is directly in front of LACMA. Expect to pay between $10-$20 for a ride from Hollywood.

  • Parking

    Street parking is available on Wilshire Boulevard, with metered parking being free on Sundays. There is an underground parking garage located behind the exhibit at W 6th St, which costs $12-$15 before 7pm and is free after 7pm. Several parking lots are also available near Urban Light At Lacma. The closest parking is at 714 South Ogden Drive, Los Angeles.

Unlock the Best of Public Art Urban Light

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Discover more about Public Art Urban Light

Urban Light, conceived by artist Chris Burden in 2008, stands as a celebrated monument at the entrance of the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA). This captivating installation features 202 restored cast iron street lamps from the 1920s and 1930s, each a unique artifact from the streets of Southern California. The lamps, meticulously restored, represent a diverse array of styles that once illuminated Los Angeles. The collection includes 16 different streetlight models, with the 'Broadway Rose' being the largest and most ornate. United by a coat of uniform gray paint, the lamps stand in a near grid, creating a mesmerizing visual experience. At night, the installation transforms into a beacon of light, casting a warm and magical glow. The lights are automatically activated at dusk and turned off at dawn by an astronomical timer. This interplay of light and shadow enhances the artwork's depth, making it a must-see attraction. Urban Light has become a symbol of Los Angeles, representing the city's commitment to preserving its cultural heritage while embracing contemporary art. The installation serves as a welcoming gateway to LACMA, inviting visitors to reflect on the evolution of urban landscapes.

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