From Eve
Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Public Art Urban Light.
Local know-how to help you travel smarter and make the most of every moment.
Urban Light: A Temple of Illumination
Experience the magic of Urban Light at LACMA: a stunning display of vintage street lamps illuminating Los Angeles's rich history and vibrant culture.
Urban Light, a captivating public 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's a celebrated symbol of Los Angeles, blending history, art, and urban culture.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Public Art Urban Light
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
5905 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, Miracle Mile, California, 90036, US
Discover more about Public Art Urban Light
Urban Light, created in 2008 by artist Chris Burden, stands as a modern-day temple at the entrance to the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA). The assemblage sculpture comprises 202 vintage street lamps dating back to the 1920s and 1930s, most of which once illuminated the streets of Southern California.
Burden's inspiration stemmed from a desire to connect the museum with the city, transforming what he saw as LACMA's neglect of its urban surroundings. The lamps, arranged in a near grid, create a captivating visual experience, with their intricate cast iron designs and varying heights drawing the eye. During the day, the neutral gray paint highlights the lamps' unique details, while at night, the solar-powered LED lights create a mesmerizing canopy of light.
Visitors can wander through the installation, experiencing the interplay of light and shadow, and appreciate the historical significance of these repurposed artifacts. The sculpture has become a beloved landmark, serving as a backdrop for countless photographs, films, and special events. Urban Light is more than just an art piece; it's a symbol of Los Angeles, a testament to its past, and a beacon for its future.
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Getting There
Public Transport
Urban Light is easily accessible via public transportation. Several Metro bus lines, including the 20, 28, 720, and 217, stop near LACMA on Wilshire Boulevard and Fairfax Avenue. From these stops, it's a short walk to the installation. A single Metro trip costs $1.75 and includes two hours of free transfers. Consider purchasing a TAP card for easy fare payment and potential savings.
Ride-Share
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer a convenient way to reach Urban Light. Simply enter '5905 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036' as your destination. The driver will take you directly to LACMA. Expect to pay between $10 and $20 for a short trip within the Mid-Wilshire area, depending on traffic and demand.
Driving
If driving, approach LACMA via Wilshire Boulevard or Fairfax Avenue. Parking is available in the Pritzker Parking Garage on 6th Street, just east of Fairfax Avenue. The cost is $21 per day. Metered street parking is also available on Wilshire Boulevard, and it's free on Sundays. Be aware that parking can be challenging, especially during peak hours.
A brief summary to Public Art Urban Light
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