From Masonic Meeting Place to The Marciano Art Foundation (MAF)
The Scottish Rite Temple, popularly known as the Masonic Temple on Wilshire Boulevard, is a historic structure situated in Los Angeles, California. Millard Sheets, an architect, and Scottish Rite member, designed it; it was constructed in 1961.
The structure, which has a spectacular white marble and glass exterior, is a prominent example of Mid-Century Modern architecture. Its interior, which features a sizable theater, a lavish ballroom, and several meeting spaces embellished with elaborate mosaics, stained glass windows, and other detailed decorations, is equally well-known.
The Masonic Temple has long served as a significant community and cultural hub in Los Angeles. Numerous occasions and performances, such as concerts, talks, and theatrical productions, have taken place there. Additionally, it has served as a filming site for numerous films and TV shows.
Currently, the structure is owned by Maurice and Paul Marciano, co-creators of the Guess clothing line. The brothers established the Marciano Art Foundation (MAF), a museum of modern art in Los Angeles, California.
With a focus on post-World War II art, the museum features approximately 1,500 pieces by artists like Jean-Michel Basquiat, Marcel Duchamp, and Cindy Sherman in its collection. Olafur Eliasson and other contemporary artists have temporary exhibitions there as well.
Millard Sheets: Prolific American Artist and Architect
Millard Sheets (1907-1989) was a prolific American artist and architect. He had a diverse career that spanned painting, watercolor, architecture, and arts education. In the 1930s, he gained recognition for his murals created for New Deal programs. These murals were part of the government’s efforts to provide work for artists during the Great Depression.
During World War II, Sheets served as an Air Force artist and designer. His artistic skills were utilized in creating visuals for the military.
After the war, Sheets shifted his focus to architectural design. He became known for his modernist approach and designed notable public spaces, including banks, hotels, and universities. One of his most famous architectural projects was the Scottish Rite Masonic Temple in Los Angeles, which he co-designed with Edith Mortensen Northman. This temple was characterized by its use of marble, glass, and modernist design elements, along with intricate mosaics that added an artistic touch.
In addition to his artistic and architectural work, Sheets was also involved in arts education. He served as the director of the Otis Art Institute and taught at Scripps College, sharing his knowledge and expertise with aspiring artists.
Throughout his long and successful career, Sheets created thousands of artworks that continue to be exhibited worldwide. His contributions to both the art and architecture fields have left a lasting impact on the creative community.
