A stunning array of sculptures now adorns the hilltop home of the Getty Center. Located throughout the site are 28 modern sculpture masterpieces donated by the late film producer, Ray Stark, and his wife, Fran.
A special garden has been created next to the tram entrance where one can enjoy the landscaping as well as the sculptures of such artists as Henry Moore, Isamu Noguchi, Elizabeth Frink and Jack Zajac. Named the Fran and Ray Stark Sculpture Garden, it features works by the British artists.
Next to the flight of steps leading to the main entrance one can find Aristide Maillol’s “L’Air,” a graceful prone figure which seems to be floating. In the main hall, Alberto Giacometti’s lean figure of a woman calls for close inspection. A special site called the Fran and Ray Stark Sculpture Terrace is located beside the West Pavilion and boasts works by Moore, Rene Magritte, Maillol and Barbara Hepworth. Visitors enjoy having their pictures taken with their heads placed above the headless figures.
Other artists represented throughout the grounds are Robert Adams, Saul Baizerman, Alexander Calder, Mark di Suvero, Ellsworth Kelly, Fernand Leger, Roy Lichtenstein, Giacomo Manzu, Marino Marini, Joan Miro, George Rickey, Joel Shapiro, Peter Shelton and William Turnbull.
To create this new installation, the Getty worked with Richard Maier and Partners, the original architects of the Getty Center, as well as Olin Partnership, the original landscape designers. Sculptures are located in various nooks and crannies and add to the delight of exploring the outdoor areas.
Thanks to the gift through the Ray Stark Revocable Trust, the sculptures will now become part of the city’s cultural heritage. Ray Stark, who died in 2004, was a successful producer, responsible for125 films including “The Night of the Iguana,” “The Way We Were” and “Fanny.” His wife died in 1992.
Visitors to the Getty Center can also view Edouard Manet’s famous painting masterpiece, “A Bar at the Folies-Bergere,” on loan from the Courtauld Institute of Art, London, until Sept. 9.