California Design, 1930–1965:

"Living in a Modern Way"

This exhibition is the first major study of California midcentury modern design. With more than 300 objects—furniture, ceramics, metalwork, fashion and textiles, and industrial and graphic design—the exhibition examines the state’s role in shaping the material culture of the entire country. Organized into four thematic areas, the exhibition aims to elucidate the 1951 quote from émigré Greta Magnusson Grossman that is incorporated into the exhibition’s title: California design “is not a superimposed style, but an answer to present conditions… It has developed out of our own preferences for living in a modern way."

   California Lobster two-piece swimsuit, swim trunks, and man’s shirt

   Mary Ann DeWeese
   1949
   Catalina Sportswear (Los Angeles, 1907–93)
   Lastex, cotton
   Two-piece swimsuit, center-back length: 14 in. (35.6 cm); swim trunks,  
   center-back length: 15 in. (38.1 cm); shirt, 
   center-back length: 27 1/2 in.(69.9 cm)

Desk (with storage unit)

Greta Magnusson Grossman

1952

Glenn of California (Arcadia, 1948–92)

Desk (with storage unit), 1952; manufactured 1952–c. 1954

Walnut, iron, Formica

47 5/8 x 23 3/4 x 40 in. (121 x 60.3 x 101.6 cm)

LACMA

Resnick Pavilion

October 1, 2011–June 3, 2012