The Getty Museum

Last weekend, while in LA, we went to the new Getty Museum. Clearly we were a bit overwhelmed because, while we have pictures of the magnificent garden, this is the only picture we have on the sight. ( Tom is holding two debit cards that we had won the week before.)
This picture is taken just outside the restaurant and does, at least, give you an idea that the museum is atop a significant hill.

And what was so overwhelming? First, the size. Approached by the tram, it looks like a proud new city. There are numerous large buildings, each designed for a specific art to be exhibited. In addition to the handsomely designed structures there is a coffee stand, places to sit and relax, garden walks with water features and, for the kiddies, a huge long slanting lawn that demanded to be rolled on or run down.

When we finally found the much anticipated photography space, we were dissappointed to find it closed. This, we later discovered, is so that the space can be significantly enlarged as " photography is finally coming into its own as an art form". ( LA Times). It reopens at the end of the month and looks as if it will be a major exhibition space.

Another facet that, while not exactly overwheming, was surely impressive is the design's ability to handle crowds. It is not only that the museum and it's attendant garden are so massive and can easily absorb large numbers of people but also the way the space gently moves one along is exceptional. You never wait in a line.

Check it out on the web for more info and for pics. Tomorrow the garden pics .