Urban Light

"Urban Light" a magnificent sculpture by Chris Burden, greets visitors at the entrance of the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) on Wilshire Boulevard. Completed in 2008, this arresting installation comprises 202 vintage street lamps from the 1920s and 1930s that once illuminated the streets of Southern California. Arranged in a meticulously ordered grid, the lamps represent 16 distinct styles, showcasing a variety of streetlight designs from that era. They are solar-powered and illuminate with LED bulbs from dusk till dawn, creating an enchanting nighttime spectacle.

Chris Burden began collecting these street lamps in 2000, initially without a definitive plan. Over seven years, he assembled a total of 202 lamps. Restoration experts such as Jeff Levine and Anna Justice painstakingly cleaned, painted, and refurbished these historic pieces. The concept for "Urban Light" crystallized when Burden decided to exhibit a significant portion of his collection, leading to LACMA acquiring the installation in 2006.

Upon its unveiling, "Urban Light" was warmly received by both the public and critics, though opinions varied regarding its impact on the museum's grounds. Regardless, it swiftly became a cherished cultural landmark in Los Angeles. Filmmakers, musicians, and visitors are drawn to it, and it has been featured in numerous movies, music videos, and commercials. Additionally, the installation has become a social media phenomenon, with the hashtag #urbanlight accompanying countless selfies and even wedding photographs.

Today, "Urban Light" stands as one of Southern California's most visited and photographed public artworks. It seamlessly blends art, history, and urban culture, making it an essential attraction in Los Angeles.