Nymph v. Satyr at Getty Villa
 |
| Roman, Nymph Resisting a Satyr, AD 1–100. Santa Barbara Museum of Art |
The Getty Villa is showing a Roman Nymph Resisting a Satyr, on loan from the Santa Barbara Museum of Art. Though the subject is less evident in its headless state, it is a scene of sexual violence. The male is a satyr, grabbing the nymph's breast as he pulls her towards him. The nymph resists the satyr's grip and pulls his hair.
The subject was Hellenistic, repeated in Roman times. The best-known example, found at Tivoli, is now in the British Museum. That sculpture includes both figures' heads, but the nymph's oddly serene head is an 18th-century restoration. In the 19th century the sculpture was stored in the Secretum ("secret museum"), lest it corrupt women, children, and the working class. The British Museum has a video on its sculpture and the reception of its rapey theme.
 |
| Marble Group of a Nymph Struggling to Escape from a Satyr, 2nd century AD. British Museum. |
Comments
> that often features a single
> artwork on loan.
There's a room in the Huntington that makes me think of the same format, but with around 2 sculptures instead of just one. But with space for more.
In the Broad, a wall to the right several feet west of the escalator landing has long had just one artwork on it when at least 2 objects would have easily fit.
The Geffen building has way too many walls and floor spaces that are the same way to a "WTH?!" degree.
Not sure why a museum does that. To me it makes a place look like it has more space than it knows what to do with. However, hipster curators into contemporary art love the aesthetic of lots of white space, plenty of blank areas. Or just the opposite of classic museums like [insert name of great art institution here].
LACMA in 2026 now makes me realize the worst failing, at least to me, is a museum that gives the impression it doesn't own enough objects for its galleries. But I've yet to see one observer, even people who dislike the Geffen, mention that one quality of Govan's/Zumthor's building.
jingtheory, Instagram:
Some places leave you inspired long after you’ve walked out the door. That’s how I felt after visiting LACMA’s new David Geffen Galleries. The highlight for me was the Buddhist gallery, and I loved the way the collection encourages you to discover connections across cultures and centuries. If you’re in Los Angeles, it’s absolutely worth an afternoon.
uncorked3's, Instagram:
Totally agree the Buddhist Gallery is definitely a must see and favorite! Nowhere else in the world can you view a photograph, next to a tapestry, next to furniture, next to a painting, next to an immersive digital work, and all being tied together through the underlying conversation around Buddhist ideals, consciousness and athletics
sujin_dolan, Instagram:
The best!
Posted by the former head of one of the unions of the movie industry:
officialfrandrescher, Thread:
The new Geffin wing is nothing short of spectacular. Inside it feels so good. The flow of movement and discovery is so new and fresh. The space is as experiential as the gorgeous art The fountains and sculptures on the grounds are fantastic. Meandering inside and out plus a snack at Erewhon and lest we forget the gift shop is a spectacular way to spend a day. It exemplifies the best of creativity. GO!