The Library Foundation of Los Angeles (LFLA) is a private nonprofit organization that provides critical support to the Los Angeles Public Library through fundraising, advocacy, and innovative public programming.
In addition to providing free programs and resources to diverse communities across Los Angeles, the LFLA also develops special projects and exhibitions that highlight its vast collections. With the support of The Lemelson Foundation and other philanthropic and corporate donors, the LFLA curated the exhibit “No Prior Art: Illustrations of Invention” to explore the power of invention and human creativity, inspired by the Los Angeles Public Library’s patent and intellectual property resources.
It features approximately 150 photographs, drawings, models, and inventions celebrating the inventive spirit throughout American history, including:
- A monumental sculpture from interdisciplinary artist Shervone Neckles called “BEACON,” inspired by African American inventor, engineer, and poet Lewis H. Latimer and his 1881 invention of carbon filaments that made electric lighting practical and affordable.
- Miniature patent models on loan from the Hagley Museum and Library highlighting early inventions from California, including an oyster-opening machine (1877), a patent for a sidesaddle improvement (1866), and a window cleaning chair (1878).
- A collection of science toys on loan from Dr. Raymond Hall — physics professor and creator of the popular @physicsfun Instagram video series — that demonstrates various properties of physics and represents the importance of play for inspiring invention.
- Artist Ben Sakoguchi’s Great American Inventors series, depicting diverse innovations in American history, from electric guitar inventor Les Paul to Kevlar inventor Stephanie Kwolek.
- “Patent Observations,” a commissioned work from artist Marc Fischer showcasing more recent Los Angeles-based inventions.
- Work from Mixografia, a multigenerational art studio that invented and patented a three-dimensional printmaking process.
- Trans artist Pippa Garner’s thought-provoking inventions.
- Creations from KAOS Network, an Afrofuturistic innovation lab in Los Angeles founded by artist/filmmaker Ben Caldwell.
“I grew up in a house with an independent inventor, and every day was an adventure,” shared Lemelson Foundation Vice President Dr. Robert Lemelson. “Invention is obviously productive and interesting, it can be lucrative, but mostly it’s quirky and fun, and we see all that showcased in this exhibition.”
The exhibit is on view from September 14, 2024 through May 11, 2025 at LAPL’s Central Library. Click here to learn more.
Watch remarks from Lemelson Foundation Vice President Dr. Robert Lemelson, speaking at the “No Prior Art: Illustrations of Invention” exhibit opening at the Los Angeles Public Library on September 12, 2024.
Read the latest news from the Library Foundation of Los Angeles: