Getty Villa Saved Amid LA Infernos
In a city gripped by wind-fueled fires, the Getty Villa in the Pacific Palisades stands as a beacon of hope. The Getty Trust’s collection of ancient Greek and Roman art narrowly escaped destruction as flames engulfed nearly 2,000 homes in the area.
Other Museums Temporarily Closed
The Getty Villa is not alone in facing the threat of the infernos raging around Los Angeles. The Eames House, a historic glass-and-steel structure designed by Charles and Ray Eames, remains unharmed. However, institutions like the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, the Hammer Museum, the Huntington Library, and the Norton Simon Museum have all closed their doors temporarily.
Artists’ Losses Highlight Human Toll
The impact of these fires extends beyond buildings and institutions. Several artists, including Kathryn Andrews, Daniel Mendel-Black, Beatriz Cortez, and Amir Nikravan, have lost their homes in the blazes. Their personal losses serve as a stark reminder of the human toll of these natural disasters.
As the fires continue to rage, firefighters are working tirelessly to contain them. The Santa Ana winds that fueled the flames are finally beginning to slow, offering a glimmer of hope in the battle against these destructive infernos. The resilience of the Getty Villa and the bravery of its staff in protecting the institution serve as a testament to the strength and determination of the Los Angeles community in the face of adversity.