Skip to Content
Downtown

Painting, Bombing, and Buffing LA’s Freeways ~ LA Public Library

Sat, May 12th ~ 2pm ~ Downtown LA

Stefano Bloch will discuss the birth, life, and slow death of L.A.’s iconic Olympic Festival freeway murals. His talk is based on in-depth ethnographic research conducted on the graffiti community and historical research conducted on L.A.’s Chicano and mainstream muralist traditions. Bloch argues that two decades of bad policy, belligerent graffiti abatement, and combative freeway bombers conspired to turn aesthetically inviting freeway walls into alienating beige eyesores. He will also be showing images from the Los Angeles Public Library Photo Collection and sharing excerpts from his personal archive of interviews, images, and reflections that focus on the appearance of L.A.’s public walls.

Sponsored by the Photo Collection and the Art, Music, & Recreation Department, presented by Photo Friends

Parking is available at 524 S. Flower St. Garage (show your LAPL library card at the Central Library’s information desk to receive a validation for reduced rates). Handicap accessibility available.

Location
Los Angeles Public Central Library, Mark Taper Auditorium
630 W Fifth St
Los Angeles, CA, 90071

Stay in touch

Sign up for our free newsletter

More from L.A. TACO

Eight Sick Halloween Haunts In Los Angeles

From a theater experience that will scar you to a chance to play a character in a Halloween haunt, we have seven of the most immersive experiences in the city for your Halloween terror.

October 3, 2024

The Taco 69: These Are L.A.’s Best Tacos, Ranked

To live and eat tacos in Los Angeles. As the L.A.'s first publication dedicated to finding the best tacos, we are ranking our fine taco scene for the first time ever. It's the guide to end all other taco guides and dedicated to our members who support us and to the best damn city in the world—complete with a map. Happy 69ing. TACOS FOREVER.

Johnny Marr’s Show In DTLA Reminds Us That Not all Manchester Music Is Miserable

The iconic ex-guitarist, co-founder, and co-songwriter of The Smiths (1982-1987) played a sold-out show at the Orpheum Theatre. And yes, the genius behind "This Charming Man" reminded all of us that only he can truly play that song the way it's meant to be heard, no vocals needed.  

September 30, 2024

This Weekend: Tacos From a Former Bouchon Chef, Bone Marrow Nigiri, and Feria de Los Moles

Plus, a pupusas and natural wine pop-up in The Valley, and more in this weekend's L.A. TACO-approved food and drink roundup!

September 27, 2024

Seven New, Must-Try Taquerías In L.A.

It’s never been a better time to live in L.A. and love tacos. For the last few years, the food media narrative behind L.A.’s arduous restaurant scene has been doom and gloom. But now, L.A. is experiencing a taquería explosion.

September 26, 2024
See all posts