The Smell launches fund-raising campaign; petition drive started

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The Smell (Photo by Dan Monick)
The Smell (Photo by Dan Monick)

Venerable DIY venue The Smell, which is facing the wrecking ball, has launched a fund-raising campaign to fight its eviction from its downtown L.A. building or, if that fails, find a new location.

Last year, the building that houses the venue, at 247 S. Main St., was sold to L&R Group of Companies, which operate parking facilities throughout the U.S. On Friday, a demolition notice was posted on the venue (and neighboring buildings), signifying that the building owners have applied to the City of L.A. to raze the structures.

A petition drive to save the Smell was started almost immediately.

A statement issued this morning by the Smell said:

Late Friday afternoon, The Smell, along with most of our neighbors on the 200-block of Main Street, were surprised to learn that the owners of our building, L&R Group of Companies, had, without warning, posted demolition notices on all of our businesses. As of this press release, no other information has been made available by either the building owners or the city, and there has been no indication as to how imminent this demolition is, or how much time we have to continue to operate.

Since Saturday, we have been overwhelmed by the outpouring of support, from people sharing memories, lodging protests, taking personal action and initiative, to offers assistance and advice. The response has been nothing short of inspirational. Volunteers met over the weekend and decided that it is vital to the overall cultural well-being of Los Angeles, that The Smell continue to exist and to move forward. In our view, The Smell has always been a community more than a physical space, and we will do whatever is necessary to assure that this community continues to thrive — if not in its present location, then in a new location suitable to its needs.

The Smell, which earlier this year celebrated its 18th year, has been a vital incubator for the L.A. music scene. It’s run by volunteers, charges mostly $5 for shows and does not serve alcohol.