The precursor to motion pictures
In 1787, English painter Robert Barker was walking along a hill absorbing the gorgeous view of Edinburgh when he was struck with inspiration: What would it take to bring this stunning 360-degree sight to everyone? That’s how the idea for panoramic art was born. Barker went on to create the first-known full panorama, titled London from the Roof of Albion Mills. The goal of the panorama was at least twofold: to immerse viewers so deeply that they should feel transported to a new place or time, blurring their sense of reality, and to expose people to far-flung locales or important moments in history.
Panoramas flourished during the mid to late 19th century in Europe and the United States. Giant domed rotundas in various cities were built to house the artworks, which typically soared upwards of 50 feet and were 400 feet in circumference. Los Angeles exhibited its first panorama in 1887. Its extreme popularity waned after about a year.
Info
Address 1122 W 24th Street, Los Angeles, CA 90007, +1 213.746.2166, www.panoramaonview.org, panorama@panoramaonview.org | Getting there Unmetered street parking | Hours Fri–Sun noon–6pm| Tip Feast on delicious North African-inspired tacos at Revolutionario (1436 W Jefferson Boulevard, Suite 70, Los Angeles, CA 90007).
The Velaslavasay Panorama is an homage to a now obscure medium, often thought of as a precursor to cinema. It’s the only remaining authentic viewing hall in the United States. Visitors walk through a narrow darkened hallway and ascend a spiral staircase (this is all by design, to disorient the eyes and mind), then emerge at eye level with the painting. It’s suggested you hang out for at least 15 minutes, which can be a challenge for many fast-paced modern folks. But if you surrender to the experience, the surround sound and lighting can take you far, far away.
The panorama installation is located inside the historic Union Theater, originally a neighborhood movie house projecting newsreels. Behind the building are gardens spilling over with plants and a cooling, meditative fountain. Lots of artsy, fun events are held here, keeping the spirit of independent creativity alive.
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