Hammer Museum
Paul Auster interviewed Ann Philbin for Artkrush. She is the brilliant director of UCLA Hammer Museum, actually the best art venue in Los Angeles, or probably the best institution for contemporary culture. In fact it’s not all about contemporary art, there is also an amazing reading program, as a bunch of challeging talks and lectures on different issues.
AK: What benefits does Los Angeles have to offer artists that might keep them from moving to New York, London, or Berlin? What part does the Hammer play in keeping Los Angeles a stimulating environment for art and artists?
AP: A great aspect of Los Angeles is the role that the different universities and art schools play. They establish a very strong network for young artists, which extends beyond their studies. The Hammer Museum, among other cultural organizations, has become an integral part of this support structure. LA has not historically been a city with many nonprofit exhibition opportunities for young artists, so our presence has certainly made a difference. Currently on view, for example, are three important projects by emerging LA-based artists Walead Beshty, Monique van Genderen, and Elliott Hundley. We are also a very lively venue for artists to enjoy public programs free of charge or to discover important work by their peers.