Specific Objects:

The Minimalist Influence (Through Jan. 30)

Take a break from frantic studying for finals by visiting this minimalist exhibition at the Museum of Contemporary Art in La Jolla. On display are works from the original practitioners of minimalism such as Agnes Martin and Sol LeWitt, as well as those by Californian artists who integrate relevant contemporary content into striking minimalist forms. These works take minimalism beyond an American framework by exposing how ideas of this innovative movement have affected Latin American and global artwork.

Pedro the Lion (Dec. 10 @ the Casbah)

As the fall days wind themselves down slowly toward the first of winter, find consolation from the early dark — and stinging finals — in the soothing melancholia of Pedro the Lion, the stage name for singer/songwriter Dave Bazan and his shifting lineup of instrumentalists. Bazan’s heartfelt ruminations on love, sprituality and conflict grace simple, mellow rock arrangements, building into emotionally charged climaxes that comfort like your old blankie. Snuggle up to Pedro the Lion Dec. 10 at the Casbah.

‘Le Dolce Vita’ (Dec. 6 @ Ken Cinema)

Welcome to 1960 Rome — a city of beauty, glamour and sin. Filmed on the side streets, clubs and bars of Rome, the classic and controversial film by Federico Fellini follows the young, impressionable Marcello — a journalist hungry for nothing more than some juicy gossip and knowledge about the hedonistic “sweet life” of Rome. Watch as he tumbles into the tangled web of sexual promiscuity, deceit and lust. It is a web woven by Rome’s celebrities and aristocrats — the very same people who helped fill the pages he once wrote, and those who ultimately dictate his fate.