Don Bloom to Present His ‘City of Angels’ Art Collection at the South Pasadena Arts Crawl
Designer Don Bloom to Showcase ‘City of Angels’ Collection at South Pasadena Arts Crawl
Renowned designer Don Bloom will present his latest collection, "City of Angels," during the South Pasadena Arts Crawl on Saturday, February 7. Known for his innovative use of salvaged and repurposed materials, Bloom integrates aluminum remnants from various restoration projects at The Wiltern, a historic theater in downtown Los Angeles.
Since 2007, Bloom has collaborated extensively with The Wiltern, initially designing art deco tables for its lobby. Over the years, he has completed more than 20 projects at the venue, ranging from exterior gates to detailed interior elements. The aluminum sourced from these endeavors now serves as a foundation for shapes featured in his artwork, including the angel motifs in this new collection.
“I don’t consider myself an artist,” Bloom stated. “I’m more of a designer, and I come up with ideas, with things that I have or somebody gave me.”
Bloom’s work will be displayed at Jeweled Universe, a participating business on Mission Street. The angel theme evolved partly through his collaboration with shop owner Diana March, who has a fondness for angel imagery. While the “City of Angels” collection is the centerpiece, the exhibit will also showcase abstract designs influenced by UFOs and other inspirations.
In alignment with Jeweled Universe’s aesthetic, Bloom has included jewels in several pieces. Nearly 20 individual works will be available for viewing during the event.
With a background that spans over 15 years at the South Pasadena Arts Crawl, Bloom has showcased a variety of works. Originally from Pennsylvania, he studied graphic design at the Art Institute of Chicago before launching his career at Reynolds Metals Company, focusing on aluminum packaging and design. Upon moving to Los Angeles, he worked under another designer before founding his own business, M.A.D. Group (Marketing, Advertising and Design).
As technology transformed the design industry, Bloom shifted his focus from client work to personal projects, although his creativity has never waned. His artworks often consist of materials others may discard. Recently, a friend in property cleanups provided him with 15 clear acrylic frames, some of which are featured in the current collection. Two circular pieces incorporate parts from a discarded aluminum chandelier equipped with LED lighting. Another artwork uses old shotgun shells gifted by a friend who frequently goes skeet shooting.
“Being my age, I kind of like to have someone else see my work instead of me just looking every day here,” Bloom shared. “My whole backyard is full of art pieces, and my garage is my studio. I would like to have people see it.”
Bloom operates from his home studio, dubbed the M.A.D. Garage. His artwork will be available for purchase during the Arts Crawl, which runs from 2 to 7 p.m. The event, featuring music, shopping, and food, is free to attend and is sponsored by the South Pasadena Chamber of Commerce.
In a philanthropic gesture, Jeweled Universe will donate 15% of proceeds from Bloom’s art sales to the Altadena Community Preservation Fund, aimed at supporting local recovery efforts. Bloom continues to collaborate with The Wiltern, currently designing awnings to protect an exterior elevator area from rain, with plans for future projects potentially utilizing salvaged materials.
Event Details:
When: Saturday, February 7, 2 to 7 p.m.
Where: Along Mission Street and surrounding blocks, Jeweled Universe, 1017 Mission Street, Unit B, South Pasadena
