Hollywood films give some people the chance to escape their dreary realities into a world of fantasy. But, I bet few of these escapees know that the razzle and dazzle image of Tinseltown itself was, until recently, no more real than a film set. In fact, the district was more renowned for porn shops, prostitution and crime than glitz and glamour.

Until recently, Hollywood was more renowned for porn shops, prostitution and crime than glitz and glamour.

While things have now started to get better, you’ll still find more cinemas showing x-rated movies than blockbusters. Ok, these might provide another fantasy world to escape to, but for me, what makes the revitalized Hollywood desirable is its contemporary art scene. If this is how you get your kicks, too, here are four titillating reasons to get excited.

Sneak a peek behind Eighth Veil

Located in an old art deco building, Eight Veil is the latest addition to the burgeoning art scene. It has an artists-in-residence programme to arouse the interest of new talent. Add to that some thrilling multimedia shows and performances and you have a one stop shop for art-tastic entertainment.

Get wrapped up in LACE

Despite its name (which is an abbreviation of Los Angeles Contemporary Exhibitions), this gallery has nothing to do with intricate undergarments. The mixed multimedia exhibitions of this gallery sometimes take to the streets, though – perhaps in homage to Hollywood’s saucier past.

Circus Gallery’s scorns the porn

In the past the Circus Gallery hosted art of a different, more erotic kind. While the piles of porn have now been discarded for works of talented local artists, the place is as stimulating as ever.

Steamy windows at Nineteen Eighty Eight

Gallery Nineteen Eighty Eight puts on a unique range of art exhibitions and thematic shows with multiple artists on display. You can get your hands on limited edition prints from local artists, and there are usually some boutique type items too. If crowded and steaming hot is your cup of tea, don’t miss out on an opening night at the compact 1988.