Living L.A.’s dolce vita

Leisure has long been an L.A. export. Above: Henry Fonda's backyard, 1948. Photo/Maynard Parker

Los Angeles is well-established as a world leader in entertainment. But it’s also a leader in something else people can’t get enough of—leisure.

Author Lawrence Culver has traced the history of leisure in L.A. from the 19^th Century to the end of the 20^th Century, and he’s coming to Santa Monica Central Library for a presentation on his book, “The Frontier of Leisure,” this Sunday, April 22.

This free presentation will focus on how the importance of leisure in Southern California architecture and culture became a bellwether for the rest of the United States. With an average of 325 sunny or partly sunny days a year, that means a lot of outdoor time, and that’s reflected in the region’s backyard pools, ranch houses and resorts. A book signing will follow the discussion.

The presentation is sponsored by the Society of Architectural Historians Southern California Chapter, a nonprofit organization dedicated to sharing the architectural heritage of the region.

The event takes place from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. in the Martin Luther King, Jr., Auditorium of the Santa Monica Central Library, 601 Santa Monica Boulevard. Seating is available on a first come, first served basis.

Posted 4/18/12