Rare West Hollywood Poster Map
This 1993 pictorial map, drawn by storyboard artist Marc Vena, vibrantly captures the essence of West Hollywood, or "We-Ho," celebrated for its dynamic gay nightlife and cultural inclusivity, showcasing the bustling street scenes and the community's commitment to diversity and acceptance.
Centered on West Hollywood's Pride Parade, the map shows 25 gay bars, 26 specialty shops, and 69 gay-friendly restaurants, all of which contributed to the town's reputation as the heart of gay nightlife in Los Angeles.
Balloons hover above, a symbol perhaps of celebration and visibility, while the iconic signage of Santa Monica Boulevard and Sunset Boulevard anchor the map geographically. Notably, the map includes the esteemed One Archives Gallery and Museum, which pays homage to the LGBTQ community's history.
The map serves as a historical document of a pivotal time in LGBTQ history, a period when communities like West Hollywood were asserting their presence and advocating for rights and recognition. It also highlights West Hollywood's commitment to cultural enrichment and education through institutions like its fine library, further underscoring the community's depth beyond its nightlife.
This is an early work by Marc Vena, drawn one year after Vena graduated from California State University, Long Beach in 1992, at the beginning of his career as a storyboard artist and illustrator in the movie industry. His Hollywood credits include 'Rush Hour', 'Twilight', 'The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe', 'Oz The Great & Powerful', Disney's 'Tomorrowland' and James Mangold's 'Logan'.
Rarity
The map is very rare. We note only the example at the Los Angeles Public Library.