If one of your resolutions was to get a bit more cultured in 2013, this week might be the best time to get started on that promise. With a slew of art exhibits, books signings, and workshops available to Angelenos throughout the year, this week takes the cake with its awesomeness. You'll see what we mean after you enroll in a Lomography course or see some sick flicks directed by a bunch of female directors. Be prepared to meet the "new you" sooner than you expected!
Oh, The Places You'll Go With This Book As Your Guide
Sure, the holiday travel season is behind us, but for those planning quick weekend trips or spring-break-worthy jaunts, we encourage you to pick up a copy of Patricia Schultz's 1,000 Places to See Before You Die before you book your next trip. And, if you're serious about how you spend your vacation days, hit up the author's signing this Thursday where she'll discuss travel tips, suggestions, and her own adventures. Who needs a travel agent when this lady's giving out free pointers?
When: Thursday, January 10, 7 p.m.
Where: Santa Monica Library, 601 Santa Monica Boulevard (at 6th Street); 310-458-8600.
Lights, Camera, Action! These Girls Are Just Getting Started
With awards season just around the corner, we've been in full-on movie mode. But, this Thursday's lineup for Filmmakers In Person isn't about blockbuster hits, rather short films focused on female directors. Catch flicks from serious cinema pioneers at The Egyptian Theatre, then stick around for a Q&A with featured filmmakers Ondi Timoner, Julie Delpy, Jill Soloway, Brie Larson, Sarah Ramos, Jessie Ennis, and Amanda Tasse. Each is a true work of art, but we're especially stoked to see what actress Brie Larson (21 Jump Street, Scott Pilgrim vs. the World) brings to the table from behind the lens.
When: Thursday, January 10, 7:30 p.m.
Where: The Egyptian Theatre, 6712 Hollywood Boulevard (near North La Palmas Avenue); 323-461-2020.
Shutterbugs, This Workshop Will Up Your Camera Cred
You'll never convince us to ditch Instagram, but if we were to ever swap the app for analog, we'd totally set our sights on Lomography. To break out of our iPhone-as-camera habit, we're hitting up the latest workshop at the Lomography Gallery Store for an old-school how-to session. Admission is only $10, and includes a free roll of film and loaner camera. Learn the fundamentals this Saturday, then peruse the schedule for more advanced courses.
When: Saturday, January 12, 1 to 3 p.m.
Where: Lomography Gallery Store LA, 7998 Santa Monica Boulevard (at North Laurel Avenue); 323-301-1414.
Keep Calm And Carry On With A Little Help From A Meditation Pro
It's one thing to make New Year's resolutions, and it's another to actually keep them. This Saturday, for only $50, meditation-slash-mindfulness teacher and sustainability consultant Deborah Eden Tull will hold a workshop that involves meditation, writing, awareness exercises, guided imagery, and group discussion. The transformative process will not only channel positive energy, but help you ease into the new year with clarity, grace, and power. Make sure to sign up here.
When: Saturday, January 12, 2 to 6 p.m.
Where: The Hub, 2001 South Barrington Avenue (near La Grange Avenue); 310-575-4200.
Turn Your Field Trip Into A Complete Cultural Experience
Chilly L.A. keeping you indoors? Use the cooler temps as an excuse to visit The Hammer and peruse the new exhibit from Berlin-based Enrico David. Somewhere between regional arts and crafts and surrealism is David's latest installation, a showing of various types of work ranging from sketches to full-on sculptures. Plus, feel free to make a day of it by grabbing a bite to eat at the new Ammo at the Hammer — the Roasted Kabocha stew is killer!
When: Saturday, January 12 through Sunday, May 5
Where: The Hammer Museum, 10899 Wilshire Boulevard (at Westwood Boulevard); 310-443-7000.
Photos: Via 1,000 Places to See Before You Die; Lomography; Deborah Eden Tull; The Hammer Museum