If you've ever wanted to get inside an artists' community, this is the place for you. Artist Jirayr Zorthian lived here for 57 years, until his death in 2004. He poured his creativity into building structures, walls, and architectural features out of found objects, such is telephone poles, decorative concrete from demolitions, river rock and more. Artists still live and work on the large property, nestled in the hills above Alta Dena. The house is comfortable and eclectic, filled with art by Zorthian and others, bookcases overflowing with reading material, a red-tile bathtub, and shaded patio. A donkey and goats are penned not far away, and gentle Rama the Llama wanders at will. Gary, our host, gave us carrots to feed them, plus fresh eggs from chickens across the property, and delicious fresh spring water. The salt-water swimming pool overlooks the LA basin, and trails through the adjacent Angeles National Forest are just steps away. It was a short drive to downtown Pasadena, but hard to believe we were so close. We were fascinated by the many art projects throughout the Ranch, all using unusual objects, and the stockpiles of materials Zorthian squirreled away that are all still there. A lovely place to stay -- rustic, quirky, and funky. Not for those wanting the upscale, hip, or modern. For those artistic at heart, easy-going, and outdoorsy.