Artistic intervention in the Los Angeles urban geography: the art practices of Charles Long, Harry Dodge and Stanya Kahn

Unrestricted The art practices of Charles Long, Harry Dodge and Stanya Kahn present alternative interpretations of the Los Angeles urban geography. Working within the cracks of the city construct, the artists repurpose the Los Angeles River a site of abandon reshaping it into an arts laboratory in which they produce counter realities, experience solitude and commune with nature. Author Brian Holmes believes our societies are failing as a result of the way artistic invention and display has been instituted. The assertion for self and collective reflection on the imaginary, which we depend upon for self-understanding, enables us to navigate and re-define our experience. Where can spaces that foster reflection, communion with nature and invention be found? Through a close study of their works, I will examine how their art practice enables them to create spaces for solitude, reflection and reinvention, breaking the prescribed notions of Los Angeles urban geography and artistic invention.