The Art Reviewer Should Have Gone to the ‘Source’

Evidently the fountain forming the base of Robert Graham’s bronze “Source Figure” was not alone in providing gushing sounds (“A Goddess for L.A.?” July 7).

This poor statue stands lost against the vast negative space of upper Hope Street--and, worse, disappears against the cluttered cityscape extending south from 5th Street. As a three-dimensional piece, the goddess is unfortunately no divine figure when viewed au derriere .

Graham’s artistry is indeed evident in his ability to work a lovely symmetry with bronze and water to create beautifully artistic pedestals. But women know that these are not silhouettes to which they can relate. Any man will tell you that Graham’s women, which resemble expressionless kouroi with primary female sexual characteristics prominently added, are not women.

Graham’s figures are neither masculine nor feminine but rather humanoids whose purpose, like the finial above a lampshade, is to complete his splendidly artistic pedestal / fountains. Thus, his work is really about architecture in miniature. It disdains human form and says nothing to the human soul. William Wilson’s got his subject dead wrong.

JOHN D. MOORE JR.

Los Angeles

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