The Inside Scoop by our Local Expert
Encompassing a wide range of artistic and creative expressions, the Orange County Museum of Art champions the learning of diversity and culture through programs that link visitors to the exhibits. Since its beginning in 1918 as a partner with the Laguna Beach Art Association, the museum was known as a hub for contemporary art and modern expression. Currently, the museum is showing several pieces regarding society's obsession with the written word and the media, featuring a variety of California artists and nationally-renowned pieces. Along with these several traveling exhibitions, the 3,000 permanent pieces of contemporary and modern paintings, sculptures, photography, printmaking and drawings provide an essential resource for Orange County. Prominently featured are works by John Baldessari, Elmer Bischoff, Catherine Opie, Alan Rath, Edward Ruscha, and Bill Viola. Along with American artists, the museum's international collections have begun to expand and encompass a wide range of mediums and art forms. Key examples include work by Eija-Liisa Ahtila, Lee Bul, Katy Grannan, Joseph Grigely, Glenn Ligon, Christian Marclay, Inigo Manglano-Ovalle, Marjetica Potrc, and David Reed.Guided by a mission to foster globally conscious relationships between individuals and art, the Orange County Museum of Art strives to inspire and enlighten through education and entertainment.