Ep 3. Los Angeles

Art in the Twenty-First Century is a documentary series that offers viewers a glimpse into the lives and works of some of the most influential artists of our time. The show explores a range of art forms and mediums, from painting and sculpture to performance art and digital media. In season 8 episode 3, titled Los Angeles, viewers are taken on a journey through the vibrant and diverse artistic scene of the iconic city.

The episode begins by introducing viewers to Los Angeles, a city known for its sunny weather, beaches, and glitzy Hollywood lifestyle. But beyond the surface, LA is also a city that has been shaped by its history of social and political upheaval, including the Watts riots of 1965 and the Rodney King riots of 1992. These turbulent events have fostered a culture of resistance and activism that has influenced artists working in LA to this day.

The first artist featured in the episode is Edgar Arceneaux, a multimedia artist who grew up in the Highland Park neighborhood of LA. Arceneaux's work explores themes of memory, history, and race, often using materials such as photographs, video, and found objects. In the episode, he talks about his piece "Until, Until, Until...", which is a reimagining of a controversial performance by the African-American actor Ben Vereen at Ronald Reagan's inauguration in 1981. Arceneaux's version of the performance highlights the way in which Vereen's original performance was misinterpreted and censored by the media, and uses elements such as shadow puppetry and live music to create a powerful and thought-provoking work of art.

The next artist featured in the episode is Diana Thater, a filmmaker and video artist who has been working in LA since the 1990s. Thater's work often explores the relationship between humans and animals, and she is known for using multiple screens and projectors to create immersive video installations. In the episode, she talks about her piece "Delphine", which features footage of a group of dolphins swimming in the ocean. Thater reflects on the way in which our perceptions of nature are often filtered through technology, and discusses the complex ethical questions that arise when we try to represent and interact with non-human animals.

The final artist featured in the episode is Liz Larner, a sculptor who has been working in LA since the 1980s. Larner's sculptures range from small, delicate pieces made from paper and wire to massive, monumental works made from materials such as steel and ceramics. In the episode, she talks about her piece "X", a massive, abstract sculpture that was installed in Grand Park in downtown LA. Larner reflects on the way in which her work challenges traditional notions of sculpture, and discusses the importance of creating art that is responsive to its environment and the people who will encounter it.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to stunning images of LA's diverse landscapes and urban environments, as well as interviews with curators, art historians, and other experts who offer insight into the city's art scene. The episode highlights the way in which artists in LA are influenced by the city's unique history, culture, and politics, and showcases the incredible variety and richness of the art being produced there.

Overall, Art in the Twenty-First Century season 8 episode 3 is a fascinating exploration of the LA art scene, and a must-see for anyone interested in contemporary art and its intersection with culture and society.