Natalie McCleary: A Young Hero Honored at the Rose Parade

Engage With Art and Literature: Events at Hammer Museum This Week

Update Explore Cultural Richness at the Hammer Museum This WeekIf you're in the North County San Diego area and looking for enriching cultural experiences, the Hammer Museum in Westwood has a vibrant lineup that you won't want to miss. This week is filled with dynamic events that blend literature, contemporary art, climate innovation, and family-friendly creativity.Unpacking the LineupThe week's events kick off with a Lunchtime Art Talk featuring Ali Eyal, a standout artist in the current Made in L.A. 2025 exhibition. Curatorial assistant Azul Silverio will lead the discussion, offering insights into Eyal's work and engaging attendees in a dialogue that promises to deepen appreciation for the contemporary art landscape. This event takes place on February 18 at 12:30 PM and creates an intimate setting for art lovers to explore ideas together.Mindfulness Meets ArtOn February 19, the museum will hold a Mindful Awareness Meditation session. Open to participants of all skill levels, this weekly offering encourages a mindful pause amidst our busy lives, fostering not just mental health but a connection to the art surrounding us. The upcoming session, both onsite and online, demonstrates the museum’s commitment to promoting mental clarity alongside stimulating intellectual and creative programming.${Quote: Katie Kitamura as a Cultural Marker}Another highlight of the week is Some Favorite Writers: Katie Kitamura on February 19. The Booker Prize-nominated author will discuss her latest work, Audition, a narrative that intricately weaves themes of identity and relationships. This event is more than just a literary talk; it's a reflection of contemporary issues, thoughtfully explored in conversation with UCLA professor Mona Simpson. Attending this event will give you insight into how literature mirrors our present-day challenges.Transformative Exchange: Exhibition HighlightsOn February 21, the museum offers an Exhibition Highlights Tour of Made in L.A. 2025. This conversation-based tour led by Hammer educators emphasizes direct engagement with art, discussing curatorial themes that resonate with the local artistic community. Whether you’re new to the exhibition or a returning visitor, this opportunity allows for a deeper dive into the intricacies of the showcased works.Art, Architecture and Climate ActionThe In Focus: Transformation event on February 21 from 2 PM to 6 PM stands out as a pivotal gathering of leading architects and designers addressing climate challenges. This program will examine how the built environment can pivot toward sustainability amid escalating ecological crises. Guests, including global thought leaders, will share innovative strategies to navigate urban transformations that are crucial in today’s climate-constrained world. While RSVP for this event is now at capacity, limited standby tickets are expected to be available on the day.A Family Affair: Laboratory of ArtRounding off the week's offerings, the Laboratorio de Arte / Art Lab on February 22 invites families to engage in hands-on creative activities inspired by the exhibition. This bilingual program bridges generations through art, ensuring that creativity remains an accessible and fun pursuit for both children and their caregivers.Wrap Up Your Week at the HammerThese events at the Hammer Museum are not just activities; they are gateways into broader conversations about creativity, contemporary issues, and community connection. Whether you’re discovering new literature or grappling with climate change through innovative design, the museum’s offerings this week foster an environment where community bonds can flourish and new ideas can take root. Don’t miss out on the chance to partake in these enriching experiences that highlight the beauty and intricacies of our local culture.Take Action: Interested in attending these events? Visit the Hammer Museum’s website for more information on programs and updates, ensuring you stay informed and ready to participate in these significant cultural dialogues.