On Tuesday, the Getty Villa in Pacific Palisades faced a fire outbreak as wildfires continued to spread throughout the Los Angeles area. Fortunately, the museum and its staff were unharmed, and the Getty has announced that the museum will remain closed until January 13.
To protect its valuable collections, the Villa activated its irrigation systems immediately, and its state-of-the-art air handling systems sealed galleries and library archives against smoke. The construction of the museum also provides significant protection for its ancient artifacts from Greece and Rome.
As the Getty Villa is typically closed on Tuesdays, no visitors were present when the fire approached. Katherine E. Fleming, CEO of the J. Paul Getty Trust, emphasized that quick actions were taken to secure the safety of the staff by promptly closing the museum and preventing non-emergency staff from entering the premises.
The Getty Center, the Villa’s counterpart, also closed its doors on Wednesday in an effort to alleviate traffic congestion in the surrounding area, with plans to remain closed until January 12.
Due to the ongoing wildfire, approximately 30,000 individuals have been evacuated, and the fire has consumed around 1,200 acres of land, a marked increase from the previous estimate of 300 acres. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation.
While some trees and plant life on the Getty Villa grounds were lost to the flames, the safety of the collection and staff remains intact, thanks to the diligent efforts of the Los Angeles Fire Department and other agencies.
Additionally, the nearby Eames House, designed by renowned architects Charles and Ray Eames, reported no damage, although it remains at risk. The Eames Foundation has taken precautions to protect the site by removing a few items in preparation for possible evacuation.
This unfortunate incident highlights the resilience of the arts community amidst environmental challenges. It serves as a reminder of the importance of prepared safety measures that protect both cultural heritage and the individuals who care for it.
In summary, while the Getty Villa faced a significant threat from wildfires, proactive responses ensured the safety of its collections and staff. The community remains hopeful as they navigate this crisis together, demonstrating the strength and resolve of cultural institutions in times of adversity.