Explore the Era

Delve into the postwar Los Angeles art world in this online archive, which provides additional material related to the exhibitions on view at the Getty Center. Learn about hipsters and happenings, and the venues across the city where all the action took place through images from the archives and first-hand accounts with the artists.

Gordon Wagner
Artist

Gordon Wagner in his studio

Gordon Wagner in his studio, ca. 1964–66. Photo by and © Harry Drinkwater

Gordon Wagner (1915–1987) was born in Redondo Beach, California, and first made his name as an abstract painter before turning his practice to assemblage sculpture. Wagner had spent his youth working at the piers and amusement parks of his hometown, and combing the beaches looking for objects he later utilized in his assemblages, such as The Mexican Night Clerk (1960–65). In addition to creating sculpture, he also wrote poetry and performance pieces that were informed by his interest in the subconscious and dream imagery. Wagner influenced artists such as Betye Saar and George Herms, both of whom approach their assemblages with an eye towards poetry and spirituality.

Historic Map Locations

Works of Art

  • The Mexican Night Clerk

    The Mexican Night Clerk, 1960–65, Gordon Wagner. Mixed media, 81 15/16 x 34 x 4 3/4 in. Tobey C. Moss Gallery, Los Angeles, CA. © Estate of Gordon Wagner

Explore the Archive

  • Gordon Wagner in his studio

    Gordon Wagner in his studio, ca. 1964–66. Photo by and © Harry Drinkwater