Academy Museum: 6067 Wilshire Bl, Los Angeles www.academymuseum@oscars.org (323/930-3000) This unique museum, dedicated to the moving picture industry, brings us back in time to the beginning of the film industry through never to be forgotten films and into the present. Fabulous costumes and even more fabulous and memorable creatures, Academy Award acceptance speeches, art, a look into the production work, movies and politics, documentaries, musicals.
Hollywoodland Jewish Founders and the Making of a Movie Capital – the museum’s first permanent exhibition. Experience the origin story of film making in early 20th century in Los Angeles with a spotlight on the impact of the predominately Jewish filmmakers whose establishment of the American film studio system transformed Los Angeles into a global epicenter of cinema. An original documentary delves into the nuances of what makes the founding of Hollywood a Jewish immigrant story.
Color in Motion: Chromatic Explorations of Cinema & Cyberpunk Envisioning Possible Future Futures Through Cinema Color…investigating the role of color in film from the technological advancements that made its use possible to the ways filmmakers use color as a storytelling tool to its psychological impact on audiences. Oct. 6, 2024-July 13, 2025. Cyberpunk examines the global impact and lasting influence of the science fiction subgenre cyberpunk on film culture, Oct.6-April 12, 2026.
Academy Museum Gala: The annual fundraising gala to be held October 19 celebrates the museum’s third anniversary and will honor Academy Award-nominated actor Paul Mescal, Academy Award winning actress singer, actress and dancer Rita Moreno and multi time award winning Quentin Tarantino.
The Academy Museum Store features merchandise designed and produced exclusively for the store including Oscars memorabilia and other film related items.
Annenberg Community Beach House: Santa Monica (310/458-4934) beachhouseevents@santamonica.gov . Grounds include playground, volleyball courts, sandy area, splash pad, courtyard, view deck, gallery. Beach house open. Pool open. Back on the Beach, an indoor, outdoor restaurant overlooking the beach – (310/393-8282.)
Artist Simone Leigh: The Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) 5905 Wilshire Bl., Los Angeles and the California African American Museum (CAAM) 600 State Drive, Los Angeles present the first comprehensive survey of this celebrated artist’s richly layered practice and her most expansive exhibition on the West Coast to date. The exhibition explores dozens of key works from across both institutions. May 26-January 20, 2025.
At the Hammer: Hammer Museum, 10899 Wilshire Bl., Westwood (310/443-7000) hammer.ucla.edu The Hammer Store offers a wide selection of books, housewares, artist projects and Hammer items plus a pop-up from Peoples Potter Project. Films, special events, fine dining and exceptional art.
AR Monuments: Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), 59005 Wilshire Bl., Los Angeles lacma.org LACMA and Snap Inc.release the third and final collection of AR Monument, bringing together artists and technologists to create augmented reality, monuments that explore histories of Los Angeles s communities and amplify perspectives from across the region.
Benevolent Beings: Norton Simon Museum, 411 W. Colorado Bl., Pasadena (626/449-6840) nortonsimon.org Buddhas and Bodhisatvas from south and southeast Asia, an exhibition that explores how representations of protective deities have been seen to offer blessings, guidance and security to their devotes.
Black Bar Social: Dorothy Chandler Pavilion Founders’ Room, 135 North Grand Ave, Los Angeles The Music Center’s Black Bar Social offers a program designed to catalyze and engage Angelenos, artists and culture makers to collaborate on a spectrum of physical to digital experiences. DII explores and creates digital ad virtual reality experiences throughout Los Angeles that reflect the rapid changes in culture, technology and environment. It is a placer to conceive big ideas and build relationships to bring those ideas to life for a better L.A benefiting all Angelenos. Tuesdays, 6:00-9:00 p.m.. June 11, July 9, Aug. 13, Sept. 17 and Oct. 8.
Bob Baker Marionette Theater: www.bobbakermarionettetheater.com/summer2021 A rollicking trip through the calendar to all things celebratory throughout the year.
Catalina Adventure Activities: www.catalinachamber.com/ A new ropes and planks course weaves through a grove of towering eucalyptus trees deep within Descanso Canyon. Other adventurous activities nearby include Zip line Eco Tour and Catalina Climbing Wall and there is always hiking, camping and an adventure expedition.
Cinelounge Sunset: 6464 Sunset Bl, Hollywood. (323/924-1644) http://cineloungehollywood.com Cinelounge Sunset re-opened in Hollywood .
Dining With The Sultan: The Fine Art of Feasting: Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), 5905 Wilshire Bl., Los Angeles lacma.org The first exhibition to explore Islamic art in the context of its associated culinary traditions. Features some 250 works from 30 public and private collections across the U.S.. Europe and the Middle East. Celebrating how gustatory discernment was a fundamental activity at the great Islamic courts. Thru Aug. 4. 2024.
Ed Ruscha/ Now Then: Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), 5905 Wilshire Bl., Los Angeles lacma.org The artist’s first retrospective in more than 20 years. This comprehensive retrospective presents his remarkable career and extensive exploration of all media, including painting, drawing, printmaking and artist’s books. With more than 250 works, the exhibition will feature his most acclaimed works alongside lesser known aspects of his more than 60 years practice. April 7-Oct. 6.
Fowler Museum at UCLA: 308 Charles E. Young Dr., N. Los Angeles (310/825-4361) fowler.ucla.edu Public programs celebrating world arts and culture online and in person. All programs are free. Must RSVP.
Frogs: Facing a Changing World: Aquarium of the Pacific, 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach (562-590-3100) aquariumofpacific.org See amphibians found in California and around the world, get the latest on their importance, the threats they face and what can be done to help in this new exhibition. May 24-April 30, 2025. Reservations required.
Gloria Molina Grand Park Sunday Sessions: 200 N Grand Ave., Los Angeles The return of free House music dance party series with a lineup of artists and musicians who have shaped how House music has made LA one of the leading destinations for the art form. Taking place on the third Sunday on August 18 and September 16 from 3:00 to 8:00 pm. Enjoy a picnic and dance.
Greek, Maya and Moche Pottery: Getty Villa, 17985 Pacific Coast Hwy., Pacific Palisades 310-440-7300) Mighty deities, brave heroes, and fantastic beings adorn the terracotta vessels of the ancient Greeks in the Mediterranean, the Maya in Central America, and the Moche of northern Peru. This exhibition juxtaposes these three distinct ceramic traditions and explores the was in which painted pottery served as a dynamic means of storytelling and social engagement. April 10-July 29.
Historic Downtown in-person & Virtual Tours: Los Angeles Conservancy (213/623-2489) info@laconservancy.org Award winning docent led tours include the L.As most beloved landmarks including the Los Angeles Central Library, the Million Dollar Theatre and the Bradbury Building. Visit Pershing Square and learn about the founding of this great city and its architecture. In person Walking tours, Saturdays at 10 a.m.. general public sales begin Thursday at noon. Live and virtual tours held Wednesdays at 6 p.m.
LA Auto Show: Los Angeles Convention Center, 1201 S Figueroa St., downtown Los Angeles.An overwhelming display of every automotive brand imaginable and featuring RDJ Dream Cars, the Kevin Hart Kollection, Test Drives, The Garage, Galpin Hall and more. Nov. 22.-Dec. 1.
LA County Arboretum: 301 N. Baldwin Ave, Arcadia (626/793-7172) Pasadena POPS concerts with conductor Michael Feinstein presents six concerts over the summer in a beautiful outdoor setting. The series features Harlem Nights, Waterloo: A tribute to ABBA, Tony Bennett & Frank Sinatra Tribute, Michael Cavanaugh: Singer Songwriters California Dreamin’, Oscar Meets Tony. Bring a picnic. July 13, 27 Aug. 10, 24, Sept. 7.
Laguna Art Museum Marks an Era: 307 Cliff Drive, Laguna Beach www.lagunaartmuseum.org On the Edge: Los Angeles Art from the Joan and Jack Quinn Family Collection. The exhibition reveals the vital role the family has played in both documenting and contributing to the story of Los Angeles art from the 1970s through the 1990s. The exhibition explores the experimental approach to minimalism, new materials and the diversification of practices. March 23-Sept. 2.
Magdalena Suarez Frimkess: The Finest Disregard: Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), 5905 Wilshire Bl., Los Angeles lacma.org Spanning over five decades, the exhibition explores ceramics, paintings and drawings including an important selection of works made collaboratively with her husband, Michael Frimkess, and numerous works never before shown in public. Aug. 18-Jan. 5, 2025.
Magic of Movies: The Hammer Museum, 10899 Wilshire Bl., Los Angeles hammer.ucla.edu The Museum of Modern Arts renowned series of influential, innovative films.
Marionette Theater: Bob Baker Marionette Theater, 4949 York Bl., Highland Park www.bobbakermarionettetheater.com
Mindful Awareness Meditation: presented by the Hammer Museum Thursdays 12:30-1:00. Reserve in advance. Free. www.hammer.ucla.edu/programs-events
Movie Mondays: Segerstrom Center for the Arts, 600 Town Center Dr., Costa Mesa (714/556-2121) SCAFTA.org Held in the Julianne and George Argyros Plaza, providing free opportunities for families to get together on Monday nights to enjoy a lineup of cinematic classics. This years lineup includes: The Muppet Movie, July 8; Pitch Perfect, July 15; Jurassic Park, July 22; 13 Going on 30, July 29 and
Back to the Future, Aug. 5.
Music Center’s Free Dance Series: Jerry Moss Plaza, 135 N. Grand Ave., Los Angeles musiccenter.org/familyday Let the good times roll with 8 Friday nights featuring Angelenos favorite dance genres from the program’s two decades, free lessons, live DJs, open dance floor and a Birthday party. July 12, 19, 26 Aug. 2, 9, 16. 7:00-11:00 P.M.
National Day of the Cowboy & Cowgirl: Autry Museum of the American West, 4700 Western Heritage Way, Los Angeles (323/667–2000) Family friendly activities for guests of all ages. Enjoy trick ropers on the plaza, cowboy poetry in gallery, live music on the plaza, country line dancing lessons, film screenings and docent led tours. Admission charge. July 27.
Outdoor Movies at the Skirball: Skirball Museum, 2701 N. Sepulveda Bl., Los Angeles (310/440-4500) www.skirball.org Sendak-related film series. Delight in movie magic under the stars, cocktails, popcorn and a trip to the galleries — all in one night. Catch a lineup inspiOut of Sight: Survey Science and the Hidden West: Autry Museum of the American West, George Montgomery Gallery, 4700 Western Heritage Way, Los Angeles (323/667-2000) Featured are three technological revolutions to examine how visual technologies, artistic interventions and the workings of state power have evolved in tandem with the Western landscape.red by the exhibition Wild Things Are Happening. The Art of Maurice Sendak. June 28, July 12.
Painting in the River of Angels: Judy Baca and The Great Wall: Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), 5905 Wilshire Bl., Los Angeles lacma.org This is a monument to the people of California where over five summers ,the artist collaborated with 400 youth, artists and community members on a mural that told the erased histories of local communities. Thru June 2, 2024.
Pageant of the Masters
Pageant of the Masters: Festival of the Arts, 650 Laguna Canyon Rd., Laguna Beach tickets@lagunapageant.com The 2024 Pageant of the Masters will mesmerize audiences with a captivating journey though history’s most iconic fashion trends and spectacles, brought to life through the artistry of living pictures, unforgettable music and engaging storytelling. Absolutely breathtaking! Performances nightly July 6-Aug. 30.
Palm Springs Ariel Tramway: www.pstramway.com (888-515-TRAM) The world’s largest rotating tram car. Celebrate Palm Springs Restaurant Week, May 311-June 9 at Peaks Restaurant. Three course $59 prix fixe menu and reduced tram fares after 4:00 p.m. Tramway summer hours begin Memorial Day Weekend. Every Friday and Saturday the last tram up will be at 9:00 p.m. and the last tram down will be at 10:30 p.m. Guided Nature Walks take place May 26-Sept. 1.
Photography at The Getty: www.visitorservices@getty.edu The Getty Center, 1200 Getty Center Drive, West Los Angeles (310/440-7300) The museum has recently acquired works by Japanese American artists of the 1920s and 30s, members of the Kamoinge Workshop, contemporary women photographers and Southern California artists, all to shape a more inclusive canon of photography for current and future generations.
Public Gardens of Santa Barbara: Tour these spectacular gardens but check websites in advance. Casa del Herrero www.casadelherrero.com; Ganna Walska Lotusland www.lotusland.org; Alice Keck Park Memorial Garden www.santabarbaraca.gov/Parks/parks_passive_main.html; Santa Barbara Botanic Garden www.sbbg.org
Public Programs and Exhibitions at The Huntington: The Huntington Library, Art Collections and Botanical Gardens, 1151 Oxford Rd., www.huntington.org An assortment of fascinating topics and displays with talks and book signings, garden tips, music, film, lectures, exhibitions and tours.
Refashioning: CFGNY & Wataru Tominaga: Hammer Museum, 100899 Wilshire Bl, Los Angeles (310/443-7000) info@hammer.ucla.edu This new installation features garments, accessories and textile works, and examines the ways in which these practices — one based in New York, the other in Tokyo — challenge preconceived notions of gender and identity and particularly what the artists describe as “vaguely Asian”. June 9-Aug. 4.
Revered Residences: Los Angeles Conservancy Virtual Program https://www.laconservancy.org/events/2021-benefit-revered-residences-virtual-program Historic walking tour adventures are offered on Saturdays. Register in advance.
Rodeo Drive Concours d’Elegance: Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills Celebrate Father’s Day at this spectacular car show. The free event promises another unforgettable experience filled with cars, delectable cuisine and endless fun along California’s most glamorous street. 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m., June 16.
Santa Barbara Museum of Art: 1130 State St., Santa Barbara (805/963-4364) www.sbma.net Renovation of the original 1812 building has improved the exhibition space, making it possible to show more of the 27,000-object permanent collection and will enhance visitor experience through improved flow through the museum, newly created galleries dedicated to contemporary art, photography and new media. Advanced tickets are encouraged for admission and can be purchased at tickets.sbma.net+
Shifting Perspectives: Vertical Cinema: Academy Museum, 6067 Wilshire Bl, Los Angeles www.academymuseum@oscars.org (323/930-3000) An exhibition that reorients standard perceptions of making and watching movies. Located in and inspired by the museum’s double height Hurd Gallery, this exhibition offers a viewing experience featuring a 20′ high x 3 ft. wide screen which can be viewed from both the second and third floors of the museum. The show honors the spirit of experimentation in cinema and draws connections between the earliest days of moving pictures to contemporary film makers. Thru Aug. 4, 2024.
Skirball Exhibitions: Skirball Museum, 2701 N. Sepulveda Bl., Los Angeles (310/440-4500) www.skirball.org Common Ground, is a major new addition to the Skirball’s permanent museum collection, 224 pieces of tableware and ceremonial pots created by artist Adam Silverman celebrate American pluralism while fostering human connection. Exhibited throughout 2024. The Art pf Maurice Sendak: Wild Things Are Happening, an exclusive West Coast display of the largest and most complete exhibition of this artist’s sixty year career.
Thenjiwe Niki Nkosi Exhibition: Hammer Museum, Westwood This installation superimposes a representation of the architecture of the gymnastic arena — or parts of the arena — onto the museum’s architecture. It offers an invitation to the visitor to imagine themselves in the space of the arena. Thru Aug. 11.
Sunset Concerts: Skirball Museum, 2701 N. Sepulveda Bl., Los Angeles (310/440-4500) www.skirball.org This year’s free concert series presents an international lineup highlighting artists of the African and Caribbean diasporas who proudly express their cross-cultural connections. Thursday evenings at 8:00 pm. Gather with friends and family to sing and dance to an eclectic lineup of musicians in the courtyard. July 18-Aug. 8. DJ Dance Party with Jauretsi and Tosstones featuring a remix of this summer music series, find yourself on the dance floor or relax and soak up the ambiance. Aug. 16.
UCLA Public Arts Program: UCLA Westwood campus (310/825-2101) www.arts.ucla.edu/calendars and www.tickets.ucla.edu Ongoing programs include distinguished lectures by luminaries such as Pritzker Prize-winning architect Thom Mayne and Phillipe Vergne, student exhibitions showing work from UCLA’s top ranked fine arts programs, student performances directed by renowned faculty and the rich offerings of the Fowler Museum, the Hammer Museum and the Center for the Art of Performance at UCLA. Many of the events are free and all are open to the public.
Vincert Valdez & Ry Cooder: El Chavez Ravine: Los Angeles County Museum of Art, 5905 Wilshire Bl., Los Angeles lacma.org Introducing a recent addition to the museum’s permanent collection through a generous gift, painted on a 1953 Chevrolet ice cream truck is an elaborate work… a mobile monument to the predominantly Mexican American community that was forcefully removed from the Los Angeles Chavez Ravine to make way for the construction of Dodger Stadium in the late 1950s. Thru Aug. 11, 2024.