Isle of Art

Yesterday I posted hastily because I was rushing out of the house to see an art exhibit in Culver City, which is not in Pasadena. Today is the last day* to see works by the LA Fine Art Squad at the Cardwell Jimmerson Gallery at 8568 Washington Blvd. (they're open 11-6). I know you may not get down there and I know this post is late and I know you may think it has nothing to do with Pasadena. You'd be incorrect on at least one count. One member of the "Squad" was and is Victor Henderson, who lives Pasadena-adjacent. His friends sometimes refer to him as "Mr. V." I don't know if he likes it.

*UPDATE: THE EXHIBIT HAS BEEN EXTENDED UNTIL MAY 28TH. YOU GET TO GO!

The work above is called "Isle of California." It was painted in 1971-72 and is the only mural remaining of several such large works the Squad painted in the LA area. Much faded but still towering, the work depicts "Arizona beachfront property" after an earthquake dumps California into the sea. The parking lot attendant told us an earthquake occurred in soCal "two weeks after the painting was done. People came from all over and brought offerings--flowers and things."

I couldn't find a record of such a quake, but the San Fernando, aka the Sylmar earthquake (thank you, PA) occurred during painting. (see comments)

It would be nice to see this work restored. I know that means money. At least it's under LA City jurisdiction, and not LA County.

Even if you don't make it to the gallery today, you can visit the mural at 1616 Butler Avenue in Los Angeles, not far from the 405 freeway. Henderson has posted some good, unfaded photos of the work here, where you can get a better idea of the apocalyptic dream quality of it.

The rusting squares you see are visual irony--plates that anchor reinforcing bolts to keep the building stable during an earthquake--obviously added after the painting was finished. I think the drips of rust down the building add truth, if not beauty.