Art Galleries

The Los Angeles art scene is hot, and the plethora of art galleries is just one testament to the importance of cutting-edge art being shown in this city. Check out some LA hot spots where you might just discover the next big artist.

Bergamot Station (2525 Michigan Ave.), located in the Santa Monica area, comprises more than 30 galleries featuring contemporary work of all stripes. Check out the Frank Lloyd for modern ceramics work, Patricia Correia for exciting new So-Cal Chicano art, Peter Fetterman for sophisticated photography, or Track 16 for up-to-the-minute performance art.

Culver City also boasts a substantial, established gallery district. Notable outfits include Billy Shire Fine Arts (5790 Washington Blvd.), which is associated with La Luz de Jesus (see below); pop-art dealers Blum & Poe (2754 S. La Cienega Blvd.); and cutting-edge gallery Lightbox (2656 S. La Cienega Blvd.).

The hip-cool neighborhood of Los Feliz and its surrounding areas have long been a center for alternative and funky art. Check out the galleries during the First Friday Art Walk. You won't want to miss the famous La Luz de Jesus gallery (4633 Hollywood Blvd) for the best of Pop Surrealism; or Black Maria (3171 Glendale Blvd), which showcases socially and politically subversive art.

You can also take in the galleries on Main Street in Downtown LA during the Downtown Art Walk, held the second Thursday of every month, when galleries stay open until 9 p.m.