Graham’s Goddess

On July 2, I took the day off, rode the RTD to downtown, went on my own little walking tour and had a great time. My trips throughout downtown are usually restricted to drive-throughs after a concert, ballet or opera. After witnessing the growth of the downtown buildings, I decided to check this out. I was amazed at what I saw.

I immensely admired the lobby and gallery of the 777 Figueroa building, the soon-to-be-unveiled sculptures in the building next door, 7th Avenue Market, the Gas Co. building lobby with the Frank Stella mural. I visited the MOCA exhibits, traipsed around the ambitious and impressive California plaza and had a coffee on the Bunker Hill Steps while contemplating the Central Library. It was a great day.

At the top of the steps I unknowingly came upon the Graham statue, “Source Figure.” Immediately recognizable as a Robert Graham, its smoothness and beauty among the buildings is a sight I hope remains downtown for a long time.

When I came upon it, I did not know its newness, and my viewing it so close after its installation added to its stature and made my trip even better. I hope to do another tour soon.

MATTHEW HETZ

Los Angeles