Ed Ruscha, On The Road, 2009. Signed Special Edition Print Set/Book.
Beyond Baroque‘s 50th Anniversary Bohemian Bacchanal, the November 10 gala celebrating the legendary literary center’s half century mark, will feature an auction of work by some of LA’s iconic artists.
The live and silent auction kicks off the festivities with more than 40 works from some of the world’s most notable artists, including Ed Ruscha, John Baldessari, Raymond Pettibon, Gronk, Robbie Conal, Catherine Ruane, Barbara Kerwin, Bob Branaman, Gloriane Harris, and Francisco Toledo. Items include rare books, such as a signed and dated copy of Dorie Bellamy’s Feminine Hijinx, poems and artifacts from Beyond Baroque’s unique literary archive, as well as items donated by the Venice business community.
The catalog published online contains information on how to participate in this auction if you cannot attend. Works were donated by the artists, Andy Schwarz, Board President of Beyond Baroque, and the collection of ViCA. For inquires about specific works available, call Juri Koll at 310-957-7037. An additional link to the latest catalog is on ViCA’s website.
Staged in the Venice Arts Plaza adjacent to Beyond Baroque’s landmark building, the catered dinner will present a historic lineup of L.A.’s leading artists, performers, poets and authors, highlighted by presentations honoring actor/poet Viggo Mortensen, a long-time supporter of the non-profit organization, and award-winning poet Will Alexander. The evening also pays tribute to Beyond Baroque founder, George Drury Smith.
Among the performers slated to take the stage are John Doe and Exene Cervenka (who first met at Beyond Baroque and formed the iconic LA band X); John Densmore, founding member of The Doors; legendary jazz trumpeter Bobby Bradford; Chris D (Divine Horsemen; Flesh Eaters); Julie Christensen (Divine Horsemen; Leonard Cohen); and poet Kamau Daáood, among others.
Attendees are invited to tour the landmark arts complex surrounding the former Venice City Hall (now occupied by Beyond Baroque) including unique sustainable landscaping curated by Kiss The Ground and Safe Place for Youth, enjoy cocktails in the Poet’s Garden and artwork in the Mike Kelley Gallery, and explore the unique collection of poetry and literature for sale in the bookstore.
