Searching for artistic inspiration, I discovered an ideal exhibit characterized by 1940’s cultural influences and glamour. As I strolled through the gallery, I sought to decipher the mystery behind each portrait. With simply a glance, my thoughts were whisked away to a world of pin curls, zuit suits and jazz music.

“Naked Hollywood” located in the Museum of Contemporary Art, astounds locals and tourists with elaborate works of photographer, Arthur Fellig. Fellig, better known as WeeGee, abandoned his previous crime-scene photography in New York in 1947 and moved to L.A. In his earlier works, WeeGee photographed film premieres, Hollywood award ceremonies and manikins in abandoned store windows. He later developed these photographs into an inspiring book, Naked Hollywood.

As I wandered from one room to the next, I marveled over the artist’s various photographs and self-directed documentary. His comedic facial expressions made me certain that he was quite the “Hollywood character”. Never before had I witnessed a photographer as zany as WeeGee with his outlandish characteristics: frequent cigar smoking and desire to distort, manipulate and edit his works.

A favorite of mine features Marilyn Monroe with an upturned nose and slanted eyes. The artist’s attempt to mock Monroe’s beauty brought out his honest and satirical nature.  Another photograph stars WeeGee himself, the portrait branded by his own mirrored effects. The mere sight of these images will leave an everlasting impression on all who have the opportunity to view his signature, stark black and white depictions.

While meandering in my dream-like state, I attempted to unravel the glories of 1940s life. Moreover, I desired to be a part of his whimsical world- a character captured in his timeless works. For hopeful artists like myself, the Naked Hollywood exhibit will transport all to an era of lavish living, sophisticated style and a whirlpool of artistic crazes.

The exhibit showcases several of WeeGee’s works that were not pictured in his 1953 photo book. Over 200 images have been displayed since early November, the showcase to remain available to the public until Feb. 27.