News Summary
The Art Deco Society of Los Angeles recently celebrated the 100th anniversary of the 1925 Paris Exposition with a three-day event at the Oviatt Penthouse. Attendees enjoyed guided tours and the ‘Art Deco Tous Les Jours’ exhibit featuring authentic treasures from the era. The event highlighted the city’s rich architectural heritage and included activities like Parisian-style tea parties and live French music, all while raising funds for the restoration of the invaluable penthouse.
Los Angeles Commemorates the Legacy of Art Deco with Special Celebration
The Art Deco Society of Los Angeles recently hosted a vibrant three-day event from April 26th to 28th to honor the 100th anniversary of the 1925 Paris Exposition, a pivotal moment that popularized the Art Deco movement globally. The celebration took place at the historic Oviatt Penthouse, an important example of Art Deco architecture in the city, which is not typically open to the public.
During the event, attendees had the rare opportunity to enjoy guided tours of the penthouse, enhancing their understanding of the iconic space. Additionally, the Los Angeles City Council District 14 issued an official proclamation recognizing the connection between Los Angeles and the Art Deco movement, underlining the city’s cultural identity shaped by various significant landmarks, including the Pantages Theatre and the Eastern Columbia Building.
Highlights and Activities of the Event
A standout portion of the weekend was the “Art Deco Tous Les Jours” exhibit, which featured authentic treasures from the 1920s and 30s, such as textiles, furniture, fashion items, and fine art. The centerpiece of the exhibit was a recently rediscovered painting, which attracted significant interest from attendees. Various activities engaged guests, including rooftop storytelling sessions, Parisian-style tea parties showcasing crêpes and themed cocktails, all creating a charming atmosphere reminiscent of the Roaring Twenties.
Guests were also treated to the sounds of French music, further enhancing the nostalgic ambiance. The event aimed to recreate the spirit of the Art Deco era, drawing connections to legendary Hollywood figures like Clark Gable and Maurice Chevalier, who were noted as past visitors of the Oviatt Penthouse.
Supporting Efforts and Future Events
The proceeds from this event will contribute to restoring the Oviatt Penthouse, ensuring its rich history and beautiful interiors are preserved for future generations to enjoy. Throughout the weekend, volunteers showcased an array of interesting displays, including vintage wardrobes by Nicole Marsak, a collection of unique cigarette cases by Lolita Pearl, and distinctive hats. Furthermore, volunteers Jeffrey Paul and Cary Farnsworth provided private tours of the building, sharing historical insights to deepen attendees’ understanding of the venue’s significance.
In addition to the tours, Cary Farnsworth is recognized for running a vintage ice cream cart and designing period costumes for themed events, showcasing the community’s dedication to preserving the Art Deco spirit.
Art Deco’s Place in Los Angeles History
The Art Deco style remains a crucial part of Los Angeles’ architectural history, with numerous important buildings from the era adorning the cityscape. The Art Deco Society’s efforts to celebrate such events not only enhance public appreciation of this unique architectural language but also elevate awareness of its lasting impact on present-day culture.
Looking ahead, the Executive Director of the Art Deco Society announced upcoming events, including the Avalon Ball scheduled for May 17, and a summer film festival, ensuring continued engagement with the Art Deco community.
This anniversary event served both as a celebration of history and a reminder of the influential spirit of the Art Deco movement, uniting enthusiasts and history buffs for a weekend filled with education, nostalgia, and community spirit.
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Additional Resources
- Larchmont Buzz: Art Deco Society Honoring 100 Years of Style
- Larchmont Buzz: Art Deco Centennial Celebration
- Larchmont Chronicle: Art Deco Society Hopes to Shine a Spotlight on a Forgotten Gem
- Google Search: Art Deco movement
- Wikipedia: Art Deco
