Do LA Architects Have a Global Influence? Join the Discussion at MOCA Sunday

Written by

After weeks of drama worthy of a telenovela, MOCA’s “A New Sculpturalism” show opened, albeit with the original title scratched out and, “Contemporary Architecture from Southern California” added. Critics have complained about…

Sixth-Street-BridgeAfter weeks of drama worthy of a telenovela, MOCA’s “A New Sculpturalism” show opened, albeit with the original title scratched out and, “Contemporary Architecture from Southern California” added.

Critics have complained about the curatorial confusion, but that hasn’t obscured the talent on display, including work by Michael Maltzan (Inner City Arts, MOMA QNS, Replacement 6th Street Viaduct, left), Neil Denari (Alan Voo House, below left, HL23, New Keelung Harbor Service Project), and HsinMing Fung (Cal Arts Wild Beast, Downtown Independent, Living in a Modern Way, below right).

EX2412-VW028You can hear from these three architects this coming Sunday, July 7, at MOCA Grand, when they will discuss “The Global Influence of Los Angeles” with DnA’s Frances Anderton.

Eric and Rhonda in their living roomThe panel, starting at 3pm, will ponder whether LA, for so long a laboratory for design experiments emulated around a the world, still exerts a global influence. Conversely, is LA resistant to new architectural ideas imported from outside? It will also ask why it is so difficult for architects who are esteemed overseas to get plum projects at home.

And it will talk about architecture in a global world; is there a regional language anymore?

The event will be held at the MOCA Grand Avenue location; the exhibition is currently on view at the MOCA Geffen Contemporary Space. RSVP for tickets (which are free) here.