Timothy Potts became the director of the Getty Museum in September; previously, he was director of the Fitzwilliam Museum at the University of Cambridge in England. Before participating in a panel on the future of L.A.’s art museums, he dished in the green room about car troubles—specifically, his first bout with the 405 and the California driving exam.
What’s your spirit of choice?
Wine. It’s not a spirit, but that’s what I drink.
What’s your go-to karaoke song?
I never do karaoke; I haven’t fallen into that trap yet.
Do you ever dance?
Sparingly.
When did you last get a traffic ticket?
Ooh, a long time ago—I don’t even remember. I’m a very careful driver.
What’s your favorite outdoor sport to play?
Tennis, but my back doesn’t let me do it very often. And skiing.
What’s your greatest fear about life in L.A.?
The traffic.
Has it fulfilled that yet?
It’s got close. On the 4—405, I mean.
What’s the best picnic food?
You can’t go bad with good bread, olive oil, and wine, and maybe something on the bread. Nothing fancier than that.
If you could have anyone’s talent, who would you choose?
A great musician. I’d start with John Williams, the guitarist.
What’s the last set of instructions you read?
The driving license test for a California driver’s license, and I failed.