Best Things To Do This Week in Los Angeles and Southern California: Apr. 8 - 11

Ed Ruscha’s paintings are synonymous with the Los Angeles landscape — the big pop art lettering, the large-scale images of gas stations, apartment buildings, and even the Hollywood sign. The first retrospective of his work in 20 years takes up all of LACMA’s second-floor gallery space and features both large-scale paintings as well as photographs and written documentation. Highlights are, of course, the chocolate room (please don’t lick the walls, even though it’s tempting!), Ruscha’s photography series of Sunset Boulevard, and his huge 1965-68 work, Los Angeles County Museum of Art on Fire, in its namesake location.

Actor and comedian Rebel Wilson’s upcoming memoir, Rebel Rising, is certainly causing a stir in the entertainment world this week. The brassy Australian doesn’t hold back in her new book, talking about everything from losing her virginity at 35 to stories from the Pitch Perfect set to some quite serious sexual harassment allegations against Borat star Sacha Baron Cohen. Wilson joins former People Magazine editor-in-chief Jess Cagle for a no-holds-barred chat that’s sure to make headlines Tuesday morning.

Blake Lewis made a name for himself beatboxing on American Idol back in Season 6, but he’s consistently released solid albums in the years since and continued his unique brand of pop. Lewis comes to The Hotel Cafe this week for an intimate show supporting his latest album, Wanderlust Unknown, alongside a few other Idol alums and fellow musicians.

Historic Hollywood recording studio Grandmaster Records is the perfect place to immerse yourself in a favorite album and that’s just what The Record Club has planned. Australian band Tame Impala’s 2012 record Lonerism is what’s spinning, in what’s billed as a "deep dive listening session" followed by DJ sets and drinks.

Chefs Jo Barett and Josh Niland visit from down under for a conversation with L.A. Times food editor Laurie Ochoa. Barrett’s restaurants focus on sustainability; Niland has done groundbreaking work on ethical fishing and fish storage. Now Serving is such a special store – beautifully curated food books and cookbooks, fun apparel, and a great speaker series. Don’t miss a chance to check it out.

Get a sneak peek of the new musical Someone You Know while supporting Sexual Assault Awareness Month. The show and the event put a focus on survivors’ stories and the power of the arts to heal. The musical by Lindsay Bartlette Allen and Rachel Page is based on true events and follows the stories of two women who survive sexual assault and rape. The evening is put on by HaGomel Foundation and also features a raffle and "expressive arts activities."

A moving meditation at the Arboretum, what could be more relaxing? Join the L.A. County Arboretum this Thursday and every Thursday for a 90-minute Tai Chi practice under the covered walkway. The ancient martial art can improve balance, lessen anxiety, and build strength.

Get a peek at the food and event vendors making the Music Center their home and explore the space for free. Visitors will be able to sample food from The Music Center’s onsite restaurants, including Chef Ray Garcia’s asterid, and an exclusive catering menu.

With lines around the block at all hours at their Venice location, Italian sandwich hotspot All’Antico Vinaio is expanding to Koreatown – just a block from the Purple line Metro station – this week. Favorites from the Florence, Italy mini chain include anything with pistachio creme and the simple but delicious caprese on their signature bread.

Does ordering wine intimidate you? Fear no more. Neighborhood Winery is hosting a series of April nights to give you the cheat codes to impress your date, your palate, and your sommelier.