Museum of Latin American Art facts for kids
 |
|
| Established | 1996 |
|---|---|
| Location | 628 Alamitos Avenue Long Beach, California 90802, United States |
| Type | Modern and Contemporary Latin American Art |
The Museum of Latin American Art (MOLAA) is a special museum in Long Beach, California, USA. It was started in 1996 by Dr. Robert Gumbiner. MOLAA is the only museum in the United States that focuses on modern and contemporary art from Latin America and by Latino artists. It helps people in the greater Los Angeles area learn about this amazing art.
Contents
Discovering MOLAA's History
MOLAA is located in downtown Long Beach, California. It is in a cool, modern building designed by Mexican architect Manuel Rosen. The museum has four main art galleries. It also has a special "project space" and an outdoor sculpture garden.
How MOLAA Started
Dr. Robert Gumbiner founded MOLAA in 1996. His goal was to create a place dedicated to modern and contemporary Latin American art. The museum helps people understand and enjoy this art. It also encourages conversations between different cultures.
MOLAA's Unique Location
MOLAA is in Long Beach's East Village Arts District. This area is becoming a lively spot for art. The museum building has an interesting past.
From Film Studio to Art Museum
Between 1913 and 1918, the land where MOLAA now stands was home to the Balboa Amusement Producing Company. This company was a very busy silent film studio back then. Before Hollywood became famous, Balboa was a major movie maker. They produced a lot of film every week!
One part of MOLAA, used for events and education, might have been part of the old Balboa film studio. The main art galleries, offices, and museum store are in a building that used to be a roller skating rink. It was called the Hippodrome.
The Hippodrome's Transformation
The Hippodrome was built in the late 1920s, after the film studios left. It was a popular place for skaters for about 40 years. Its high ceilings and wooden floors were perfect for its final change. It became the beautiful Museum of Latin American Art.
MOLAA's Growth and New Look
MOLAA went through a big expansion and renovation. This project cost $10 million and finished in June 2007. The museum became much larger and better.
What Was Added and Improved
The renovation added a 15,000 square foot sculpture garden. It also included an art studio for education. There is now a film-screening room and new offices. A research library, a new entrance lobby, and a museum store were also part of the update. This expansion more than doubled the museum's size to 55,000 square feet. This means MOLAA can welcome more visitors. It can also offer more exhibitions and programs to the community.
Exploring the Sculpture Garden
MOLAA's Sculpture Garden is designed with a Latin American feel. It has large wall elements and interesting shapes. You can see bright, strong colors, like those found in many Latin American courtyards.
Features of the Garden
The 15,000 square foot space has different raised and lowered areas. These create smaller, cozy spots to explore. The main highlight is a raised platform on the north side. This area is used for many different events and performances. The garden also has two bubbling water fountains. The largest one is in the center of the garden. Water features are a common part of Latin design.
MOLAA's Amazing Art Collection
MOLAA has a permanent collection of over 1,500 artworks. This includes paintings, sculptures, drawings, and mixed-media pieces. You can also find photography and video art.
Artists in the Collection
MOLAA's collection features works by many talented Latin American artists. Some of these artists include Dario Escobar, Pájaro (Juan Vicente Hernández), Daniel Lind-Ramos, Marco Maggi, Liliana Porter, Esterio Segura, and Flavio Garciandia.
Working with the Smithsonian
MOLAA is an "Affiliate Museum" of the Smithsonian Institution. This is a special partnership. It means MOLAA can borrow artworks from the Smithsonian. They can also use other helpful resources from the Smithsonian.
Special Exhibitions at MOLAA
MOLAA often hosts special exhibitions. These shows highlight different artists and art styles.
Past Exhibitions to Remember
Some past exhibitions have shown works by famous modern artists. These include Oswaldo Guayasamín, Wifredo Lam, and David Alfaro Siqueiros. The museum has also featured contemporary Latin American artists. Examples are Regina Galindo, Roberto Fabelo, and Marcos Ramirez Erre.
Notable Art Shows
- Fabelo’s Anatomy: This exhibition ran from June 28, 2014, to September 28, 2014. It was the first time Roberto Fabelo's art had a solo museum show in the United States.
- Frida Kahlo, Her Photos: In March 2014, MOLAA hosted this popular exhibit. About 55,000 people visited it. The museum's membership also grew by 60% because of this show.
In June 2014, MOLAA made an important decision. They decided to include Chicano art in their definition of Latin American art. Chicano art is made by people of Latin American descent who live in the United States. This means MOLAA can now officially welcome art from all Latino communities. This includes those living in their home countries, the U.S., or abroad.
MOLAA's Purpose
The Museum of Latin American Art has a clear mission. It wants to increase what people know and how much they appreciate modern and contemporary Latin American art. It also includes Latino art. MOLAA does this through its collection, exciting exhibitions, fun educational programs, and engaging cultural events.
Visiting MOLAA: Location and Hours
The Museum of Latin American Art is located at 628 Alamitos Avenue, Long Beach, CA 90802. There is free parking available at the museum or on the street.
Museum Hours
MUSEUM GALLERIES, GARDEN & STORE
- MON: CLOSED
- TUE: CLOSED
- WED: 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
- THU: 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
- FRI: 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
- SAT: 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
- SUN: 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
(HOLIDAYS MAY DIFFER)
You can call the museum at [[1]]. For more information, visit their website: molaa.org.
