With our free press under threat and federal funding for public media gone, your support matters more than ever. Help keep the LAist newsroom strong, become a monthly member or increase your support today.
This is an archival story that predates current editorial management.
This archival content was written, edited, and published prior to LAist's acquisition by its current owner, Southern California Public Radio ("SCPR"). Content, such as language choice and subject matter, in archival articles therefore may not align with SCPR's current editorial standards. To learn more about those standards and why we make this distinction, please click here.
Photos & Video: Inside The Magical Rain Room At LACMA
An enchanting art installation allows you to walk through a rain shower without getting soaked to the core.
It may not rain often in Los Angeles, but guests of Rain Room—which runs from November 1 through March 6 at LACMA—can enjoy the standing in the midst of a relaxing downpour without the fear of getting drenched. The 2012 piece from London-based Random International takes place in a dark, 2500 square foot space room full of falling water, but sensors adjust the 'rain' when they sense someone is present, keeping guests dry as they move throughout. So, it's like having your own personal, intangible umbrella. And while it feels magical, it's actually a beautiful blend of art and technology.
The museum is expected to hold about 20 in the gallery space for timed 15-minute intervals, and five to seven people can walk beneath the simulated rain at a time. For the drought conscientious, LACMA said that 528 gallons of water used in the installation will be recycled through a "closed-loop system with minimal evaporation and replenishment."
When Rain Room hit New York's MoMA, people waited in line for hours for a chance to experience it.
Sponsored message
LACMA advises that guests not wear dark or reflective clothing as the exhibit is dark, and high heels are not permitted. Selfies are welcome, but no flash. And while you won't get soaked, you may get a little damp—especially if you walk too quickly.
Video via Navid Baraty
Rain Room runs Nov. 1 through Mar. 6 at LACMA at 5905 Wilshire Blvd in Los Angeles. You will need a ticket upgrade ($15) to check it out, and reservations are highly encouraged. Tickets can be found here.
At LAist, we focus on what matters to our community: clear, fair, and transparent reporting that helps you make decisions with confidence and keeps powerful institutions accountable.
Your support for independent local news is critical. With federal funding for public media gone, LAist faces a $1.7 million yearly shortfall. Speaking frankly, how much reader support we receive now will determine the strength of this reliable source of local information now and for years to come.
This work is only possible with community support. Every investigation, service guide, and story is made possible by people like you who believe that local news is a public good and that everyone deserves access to trustworthy local information.
That’s why we’re asking you to stand up for independent reporting that will not be silenced. With more individuals like you supporting this public service, we can continue to provide essential coverage for Southern Californians that you can’t find anywhere else. Become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Thank you for understanding how essential it is to have an informed community and standing up for free press.
Your support for independent local news is critical. With federal funding for public media gone, LAist faces a $1.7 million yearly shortfall. Speaking frankly, how much reader support we receive now will determine the strength of this reliable source of local information now and for years to come.
This work is only possible with community support. Every investigation, service guide, and story is made possible by people like you who believe that local news is a public good and that everyone deserves access to trustworthy local information.
That’s why we’re asking you to stand up for independent reporting that will not be silenced. With more individuals like you supporting this public service, we can continue to provide essential coverage for Southern Californians that you can’t find anywhere else. Become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Thank you for understanding how essential it is to have an informed community and standing up for free press.
Senior Vice President News, Editor in Chief
