La Jolla Exhibit Celebrates UC San Diego Artist Duo
The La Jolla Historical Society is unveiling a unique new exhibition at Wisteria Cottage, delving into the creative world of acclaimed husband-and-wife painters, Manny Farber and Patricia Patterson. Both artists shared a significant connection to UC San Diego, and this show offers an intimate look at their individual works and shared influences.
“Double Bill”: A Glimpse into Artistic Lives
Titled “Double Bill: The Art of Manny Farber and Patricia Patterson,” this compelling exhibition offers an insightful exploration of two influential artists. Farber and Patterson, who relocated to San Diego from New York in 1970, made their mark on the local art scene, particularly through their work at UC San Diego.
The collection showcases a diverse range of their creative output, including paintings, intricate sketches, personal photographs, and archival materials. Visitors will gain a deeper understanding of their individual artistic practices and the profound ways they influenced each other’s work.
What to Expect at Wisteria Cottage
Beyond the artworks themselves, the exhibit is designed to immerse visitors in the artists’ world. Furniture and everyday objects from Farber and Patterson’s own residence will be integrated into the display, alongside vibrant fruits and flowers inspired by their personal garden. This thoughtful curation aims to highlight the importance of their domestic setting to their artistic processes.
Adding another layer of intimacy, the exhibition includes featured photography by Rebecca Cohen. A longtime friend and Visual Arts colleague from UC San Diego, Cohen’s photographs offer rare glimpses of the couple both at home and within their university studio spaces, providing a personal perspective on their lives and work.
A Dual Artistic Experience in La Jolla
This exhibition isn’t a standalone event. The La Jolla Historical Society has collaborated with Quint Gallery, which will concurrently present “Manny Farber: An Up Beat Title” at its nearby location on 7655 Girard Ave. This offers a fantastic opportunity for art enthusiasts to experience distinct yet interconnected aspects of Farber’s and Patterson’s impressive careers across two prestigious La Jolla venues.
Wisteria Cottage: A Historic Canvas
The setting for “Double Bill” is the beautifully restored and rehabilitated 1904 Wisteria Cottage Museum at 780 Prospect St. This historic venue now boasts expanded, museum-standard gallery space, making it an ideal location for changing exhibitions and educational programs. The La Jolla Historical Society also utilizes a 1909 cottage for offices and public research, alongside a 1916 carriage house that houses state-of-the-art storage for the society’s extensive archival collection.
Exhibit Details at a Glance
| Exhibit Name | Location | Primary Focus | Run Dates |
|---|---|---|---|
| Double Bill: The Art of Manny Farber and Patricia Patterson | Wisteria Cottage Museum, 780 Prospect St., La Jolla | Creative partnership, San Diego life, mutual influence | Nov. 7, 2025 – Feb. 1, 2026 |
| Manny Farber: An Up Beat Title | Quint Gallery, 7655 Girard Ave., La Jolla | Manny Farber’s individual career | Concurrent (check gallery for exact dates) |
Frequently Asked Questions
- When does the “Double Bill” exhibit open?
The public opening is Friday, November 7, 2025, from 6-7:30 p.m. - Where is Wisteria Cottage Museum located?
It is located at 780 Prospect St., La Jolla. - What types of art and materials are featured?
The exhibit includes paintings, sketches, photographs, archival materials, and even furniture and objects from the artists’ home. - Is there a related exhibit happening concurrently?
Yes, Quint Gallery nearby is presenting “Manny Farber: An Up Beat Title.” - How long will the “Double Bill” exhibit run?
It will be on display until February 1, 2026.
Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the rich artistic legacy of Manny Farber and Patricia Patterson, two talents deeply connected to San Diego, at the historic Wisteria Cottage and Quint Gallery this season.
La Jolla Honors UCSD Artists Farber Patterson
