California came of age in the 1960’s establishing itself as a cultural mecca with global influence. The imagery of that time has remained attached to the area, being particularly influential in the development of Southern California’s identity. In Steve Thomas’ latest additions to his series of mementoes he explores this, capturing those lasting traces of nostalgia. By referencing classic elements of the area he reflects on its signature attitude embracing the hustle and bustle of city life while still being able to stay cool.
Steve Thomas’ Los Angeles piece shows a moment of repose amidst an urban backdrop.
Among these 1960’s staples is mid-century modernism. When adapted to architecture, the wide windows and open spaces characteristic of this style make it perfect for the magnificent Los Angeles landscape. One of the most iconic executions of this is architect Pierre Koenig’s 1960 masterpiece Case Study No. 22, better known as The Stahl House, which attempted to imagine what the “home of the future” might be. Part of the “Case Study” house series that evolved between 1945 and 1966. Its sponsor, editor of Arts & Architecture magazine John Entenza, had a vision of enlisting contemporary designers to make modern architecture accessible, financially and conceptually, to the American public. The Stahl House would be amongst the most influential.
Nearly 60 years later, Koenig’s work remains as sleek and stylish as it was at its inception. Since then the house has, in classic LA fashion, gained notoriety by being used as a set piece in films such as Galaxy Quest (1999) and Knight of Cups (2015), as well as being used as a location in Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas (2004). Steve Thomas decision to use it as the backdrop of his first work focused on Los Angeles draws from as it is important as a historical landmark that would speak to something greater than it being just a home.
“From that moment on, there was just a groundswell that got bigger, and now we’re all enveloped.”
-Pierre Koenig
The Stahl House’s reputation was solidified culturally with recognition of the building’s importance by renowned architectural photographer Julius Shulman. Shulman had already built up a considerable reputation for himself when he visited the home in 1960, but in the many decades that have passed since his career first began one photo in particular from that visit has remained his most notorious. Taken shortly after construction was completed in 1960, the image (much like Steve Thomas’) is an intimate look into the Los Angeleno dream. Two fashionable young women interact with the sprawling cityscape beneath them, seemingly on top of the world. The moment is triumphant for both architect and photographer, and both would be defined by it.
Architecture is a far reaching medium, as it is not complete when building is finished. Such works are monuments to human creation, and stand to inspire and influence for generations to come.
Julius Shulman / J.Paul Getty Trust / Julius Shulman photography archive