Jeff Gritchen/ Getty Images
Multiple wildfires tore through Los Angeles this week, forcing thousands to evacuate and threatening cultural landmarks across the city. The fires have already consumed over 3,000 acres, with the largest blazes concentrated in Pacific Palisades, Eaton Canyon, and the Hurst area.
On Wednesday, a new fire erupted near Runyon Canyon, placing Hollywood's historic district at risk. The flames came within half a mile of the Chinese Theatre and Dolby Theatre, while smoke drifted over the Hollywood Bowl. City officials expanded evacuation zones into parts of Santa Monica as the Palisades fire pushed westward.
The Getty Villa reported damage to its surrounding grounds, though its art collection remains secure. "Our fire prevention systems performed as designed", said Maria Thompson, Getty's head of security. "Our immediate concern is for our staff members who have been displaced."
Several exhibitions faced disruption. Gagosian Beverly Hills postponed artist Alex Israel's "Noir" show indefinitely. The Weisman Museum at Pepperdine University canceled two exhibition previews, while UCLA's Fowler Museum rescheduled the opening of "Fire Kinship", an exhibition examining Indigenous approaches to forest management.
Local artists have documented their experiences on Instagram and Twitter. "Had 15 minutes to grab what I could from my studio", posted ceramic artist James Chen. "Twenty years of work – hoping it's still there when we return."
Superchief Gallery LA has converted its space into a temporary relief center. Starting January 9, the gallery began collecting essential supplies including air purifiers, N95 masks, and clothing. Gallery director Aaron Morris announced an expanded effort for January 11, combining an art supply drive with a night market. "Every dollar and donation goes straight to those who lost homes and studios," Morris said.
The National Weather Service forecasts high winds through the weekend, complicating containment efforts. Fire officials estimate full containment could take up to two weeks, depending on weather conditions.
Kristin Kaye
Insatiably curious about human expression, she immerses herself in literature, theater, art, and dance. Her academic journey led to degrees in Modern Literature, where she delved into The Furioso, and Historical Sciences with a focus on Contemporary History. Her studies took her to the prestigious Erasmus University Rotterdam, broadening her international perspective.
Her passion for culture isn't confined to personal enjoyment—it spills onto the pages of various publications. There, she explores not only artistic endeavors but also civil rights issues and the myriad ways human culture manifests itself. For her, writing about these topics isn't just a profession; it's an irresistible calling that stems from her deep-seated fascination with the human experience.