#OnlyinLB: MOLAA
Feel the need to feed your brain and take in some art and culture this summer? Long Beach is fortunate to be home to several world-class museums, including the Museum of Latin American Art (MOLAA), the only museum in the United States dedicated to modern and contemporary Latin American and Latino art.
JUST RIGHT
Founded in 1996, Museum of Latin American Art’s (628 Alamitos Ave) thought-provoking exhibitions focus on modern and contemporary artworks, from paintings and sculpture to photography and video installations. The museum’s size is perfect for spending a few hours soaking up some knowledge without being overwhelmed. Visitors can explore the creations of living artists and learn about the social, cultural, and political context for their work.
PLANNING YOUR VISIT
Go to the museum's website to make your reservation and purchase tickets. While reservations are not required to visit, they are recommended, especially during busy summer weekends. The museum is open from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday, and closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. Admission is $15 for adults, $10 for students with valid ID, $10 for seniors, and free for children under 12 years old. Admission is free for everyone on Sundays.
EXHIBITIONS THIS SUMMER
Visitors will have the chance to see several exhibitions at MOLAA this summer, highlighting works by newer artists as well as familiar favorites. On view through August 6, Tania Candiana: Reverencia features a video created by the artist in 2019 with an interpretation of a traditional ceremonial Mexican dance, Dance of the Quetzals. MOLAA is also displaying an in-depth exhibit of Los Angeles Chicana artist Yolanda González’s paintings and drawings through July 30 and a collection of artwork by the renowned Colombian artist Fernando Botero through July 9.
ROBERT GUMBINER SCULPTURE GARDEN
In 2006, MOLAA nearly doubled its size by adding an outdoor sculpture garden named for its founder. The space also hosts live performances, festivals, and events throughout the year such as the Long Beach Cultural Dance Festival on June 25. Bask in the sun next to a sparkling fountain and stroll the perimeter to view the modern bronze, wood, and stainless steel sculptures. The stucco walls and plantings of palms and cactuses offer the perfect counterpoint to the dark glazed floors, white walls, and cool interior of the museum.
GIFT SHOP
Don’t leave without stopping in MOLAA’s gift store, La Tienda en MOLAA, which stocks a selection of colorful home decor, children’s books, games, toys, artwork, clothing, jewelry, and other unique items inspired by the arts of Latin America and created by Latinx artists. Your purchase supports the museum, a great reason to add a beautiful new object to your home or wardrobe.
CONTINUE THE JOURNEY
If your visit to MOLAA inspires you to continue learning, visit the museum’s website to view MOLAA En Casa (MOLAA At Home). Their online offerings include the MOLAA Zoom Project, a collection of conversations with Latin American and Latinx artists from all over the world and Chief Curator Gabriela Urtiaga. You can also view online exhibitions, explore the permanent collection through Google Arts & Culture, watch videos, and listen to playlists inspired by the museum’s collection.