With the 2014 World Cup coming up in Brazil this summer, now is a great time for a crash course in all things football or, as we call it here in the United States, soccer. Unlike American football, the original football is played by teams of 11 who aren't allowed to touch the ball with their hands or arms, with the exception of the goalkeepers, of course. Since Los Angeles is the only city with not one but two Major League Soccer teams — L.A. Galaxy and Chivas USA — it's the ideal place for an exhibit that brings together the different disciplines of sport and art into a cohesive show that celebrates both. With this in mind, LACMA is exhibiting dozens of pieces by nearly 30 artists examining the so-called “beautiful game.” The show reveals what soccer means to players, spectators, fans and those who may not be aware of the scope of its cultural significance around the world. Featuring artworks in a range of media including photography, video, painting, installation and sculpture, “Fútbol: The Beautiful Game” addresses issues of flag-waving jingoism and the nature of communal experience through sports today. LACMA, 5905 Wilshire Blvd., Mid-Wilshire; Mon., Tue., Thu., 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Fri., 11 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sat.-Sun., 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; thru July 29. $15, $10 seniors and students. (323) 857-6000, lacma.org.

Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays-Sundays. Starts: Feb. 2. Continues through July 20, 2014
(Expired: 07/20/14)

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