One of the more pleasant places to hike in L.A. is just over the hill, on the Valley side of town. It’s technically called Wilacre Park, but everyone knows it as Fryman Canyon. Unlike a lot of our trails, this one winds through loads of trees, which makes for some nice shade. There are also gorgeous canyon views, as well as the occasional celebrity hiker. And if that’s not enough, the road away from the trail goes right past Clooney’s house. The area is amazing.
Anyhoo – right outside the park’s entrance there is an odd installation. It’s only been there a couple of years, and I’ve meant to stop by and check it out since first spotting it. Yesterday I did just that.
There is what one might call a dinner table, a bench and a nice seating area with a low occasional table. There is also a gorgeous kaleidoscope, made of wood and metal.
The pieces are attached for permanence, which is cool. But I can’t imagine ever actually using any of it. Sure – they’re fabulous pieces. But the traffic on that crazy busy street – Laurel Canyon – is loud and unending. Taking a breather there is completely unappealing, and probably hazardous to one’s lungs.
I appreciate the craftsmanship and the installation. I do wish it were located some place a little more enticing. But just the same, it’s nice to see someone thought to beautify that little piece of land. And make no mistake – the pieces truly are beautiful.