By David Keeps For Ruth Handel, the key to throwing a great party is simple: Stick to a retro theme that’s suited to her home, a classic 1948 Mar Vista tract house designed by renowned modernist architect Gregory Ain. With Handel’s strong sense of vintage design, the stage is set for a low-cost, high-style celebration. Join the party. What a hoot: In the entry hall lined with thrift shop portraits, Ruth Handel, left, receives a hostess gift from performance artist Johanna Went. Went found the metal sculpture of an owl earlier that day in a junk store. “I didn’t dust it or take off the price tag,” she admits. “Ruth likes things that way.” (Christina House / For The Times) Sept. 12, 2012 10:55 AM PT Facebook Twitter Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Copy Link URLCopied! Print