The Getty Center

About

The Getty Center, located in Los Angeles, California, is a renowned cultural institution that houses the J. Paul Getty Museum and other programs of the Getty Trust. The center’s architectural design, created by Richard Meier, is inspired by the urban and natural elements of Los Angeles, offering modern design, beautiful gardens, open spaces, and dramatic views of the city. The Getty Center’s extensive collection includes European paintings, drawings, sculpture, illuminated manuscripts, decorative arts, and photography from its beginnings to the present, gathered internationally. The center’s commitment to inspiring curiosity about the visual arts is reflected in its diverse range of exhibitions and programming, engaging diverse local and international audiences.

The Getty Center’s architectural elements are a significant part of the visitor experience. The campus is covered in Italian travertine and organized around a central arrival plaza. The stone—1.2 million square feet of it—is one of the most remarkable elements of the complex. Highly textured and ranging in color from light beige to honey, the travertine catches the bright Southern California light, which reflects sharply during morning hours but emits warmth in the afternoon. The center’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its eco-conscious operation and its unique architectural design that highlights both nature and culture.