Haven't been into Los Angeles for too long! Drove in with a friend to see the woodblock show at the Armond Hammer Museum on Wilshire at Westwood. This show is a reminder to all of us who love wood blocks that there is a long history of such art. While the work from Asia, particularly India, is far more detailed and therefore, difficult to accomplish, the style of the work was not my favorite. Mexico produced the work that blew me away...bold, huge pieces forcing me to stand back and consider how it might have been printed or produced. The show reinforced my resolve to "get started" even it means using the more recent, readily available, stamp like material that is easily carved with a chisel of sorts. Perhaps after trying this easy method, the technique will challenge me to try wood.
Our meal at Mozza on Highland at Melrose, was STUNNING. We lunched at the smaller, less expensive of the 2 Italian eateries, the Pizzeria and marveled at all four of the pizzas we tried. My personal favorite was the one with broccoli...unbelievable. The squash blossom and soft mozzerella was also mind blowing. If you take a chance and go without reservations, be there when it opens and sit at the pizza bar...a visual treat that does not require reservations.
Photo shows wood block prints purchased when visiting Michoacan, Mexico last November.
