The Getty Center, located on Getty Center Drive in Los Angeles' prestigious Westside, is a must visit for any visitor to L.A. The spectacular views of the city alone make a trip to the Center's hilltop perch worthwhile. This fortress-like complex designed by Richard Meier opened in 1998 as a monument to the late oil tycoon J. Paul Getty, and to house and display his vast collection of art and antiquities. The building itself, with its rough-cut marble skin and unique gardens is considered an architectural marvel.
The galleries within the complex's pavilions are home to permanent collections of European paintings, drawings, illuminated manuscripts, sculpture and American and European photography. There is a collection of French furniture and decorative arts, particularly from the period of Louis IV to Louis XVI, that is world famous. Among the noteworthy paintings in the galleries are van Gogh's Irises, Rembrandt's The Abduction of Europa, James Enor's Christ's Entry Into Brussels and Monet's Wheatstack, Snow Effects, Morning. A specially designed lighting system allows natural light to be filtered in, so visitors can see these great works as the artists saw them.
The Getty Center presents lectures, films and concerts, as well as special programs for children and families. If you want to begin with a quick overview, pick up a brochure at the entrance. This will guide you to 15 highlights of the collection. You can also take advantage of an instructive audio tour (for an additional low fee) which has commentaries by art historians. Try to arrive early in the day to avoid the crowds and for parking. Coming by public transit is highly recommended. The food in the cafeterias is excellent. Detailed information can be found at www.getty.edu.
