For the last few months, billboards, street lamp signs, and even some ATMs have been declaring the presence of Pacific Standard Time: Art in L.A. 1945 – 1980. It's basically a "hugely ambitious six-month initiative that tells the story of the birth of the Los Angeles art scene" (end quote). Over 80 galleries, museums, and programming partners got together with some major funders to create over 68 major museum exhibitions, over 125 art galleries exhibitions, and a huge Public Art Festival to Los Angeles from October 2011-April 2012.

So why are we writing about it now? Because time is fleeting and, even though many of the events have been on the BrokeLA calendar, we know sometimes things need to be spelled out: GO! See some art created in LA that has changed the world. With over 1300 featured artists, there is likely to be something that catches your eye. Not all of the exhibits/events are free or under $10, but there are a fair number that fit the bill. It's the end of January and before you know it this unique art experience will be gone. Don't completely miss out on this unprecedented collaboration.

Though it may feel daunting to identify an interesting event, the creators/curators of Pacific Standard Time created a pretty awesome site to support the initiative. For example, they have a searchable map of exhibits, so you can go to the Visit tab and find something in your neighborhood. Even better, you can filter by date and/or by theme. Yes, there are BofA, Coffee Bean, and Thrillist locations also listed on the map, but what do you want from sponsors? We give them props for investing in the Arts.

Another cool feature of the site is that you can create a free account and save event or exhibition details to a personal calendar of sorts. It's a pretty helpful reminder to get out there. LA gets a lot of flak for being shallow and uncultured. Not true. This ode to LA artists is an opportunity to explore and be proud of the energy and impart of our fair city.

Don't take it from us though. Take it from Ice Cube.