UCLA Arts Newsletter

Erkki Huhtamo is a media archaeologist, historian, and curator who holds joint appointments as a Professor in the Departments of Design Media Arts and Film, Television, and Digital Media. Below, he offers his "Alternative Pedestrian LA."

I have a rare hobby: I explore Los Angeles on foot. About twice a month, normally on Saturday mornings, I take to the road from the Westside, close to where the 405 and 10 freeways meet, and fulfill my peripatetic desires by walking all the way to Downtown Los Angeles. I normally follow Pico or Venice Boulevard, sometimes choosing other routes. I reach Downtown in between two-and-a-half and three hours, and take the Expo line train back.

Why do I do it? To get exercise and to give myself ample time to think (there is no smartphone in my pocket), but also to witness the city and its inhabitants from unusual perspectives in the spirit of the Situationist International. Having reached Downtown, I always feel refreshed and energized rather than exhausted. Here are some of my regular destinations along the walk, which I recommend for anyone who starts feeling bored with their customary daily routines. Try something new—head Downtown through unexplored terrain!