Museum of Latin American Art, or MOLAA, is a museum in Long Beach, California that showcases the art and culture of Latin America. Founded in 1996 by Dr. Robert Gumbiner and his wife Yvonne Lombard-Gumbiner, this nonprofit organization began with two small galleries located at their home on Westmoreland Avenue. The museum’s mission was to promote understanding of Latin American art through exhibitions, publications, and educational programs. Today MOLAA has three locations: the original location on Westmoreland Avenue; El Segundo Museum (a temporary exhibition space); and our newest permanent facility at Golden Shore in downtown Long Beach!
History
This Museum was founded by Dr. Robert Gumbiner and his wife Yvonne Lombard-Gumbiner in 1996. The Museum’s mission is to promote understanding of Latin American art through exhibitions, publications, and educational programs.
Originally starting out as two small galleries located in their home on Westmoreland Avenue, the Museum now has three locations. The original location is still open today and houses its permanent collection at 2401 East Ocean Boulevard along with a temporary exhibition space called El Segundo Museum of Art that opened this year!
The Golden Shore facility was built next to the Long Beach Convention Center in downtown Long Beach. This new space opened to the public on October 30th, 2012.
Why Visit the Museum?
When visiting MOLAA you can get an idea of what life was like for people living in Latin America over five hundred years ago! You’ll be able to see how they created their food, built homes, and even got married! The Museum offers traveling exhibits, lectures, and workshops for adults and children.
This museum is dedicated to preserving the art and culture of Latin America, so you’ll be able to see everything from sculptures and paintings to folk art and more!
Tips for Visiting the Museum
- Come When there is less traffic: Being the most visited museum in Long Beach, it can get really busy especially on the weekends. If you go during weekday afternoons or early evenings there is much less traffic.
- Take Care of Kids: Kids are so excited to see art, but sometimes they get carried away. Make sure to have a plan of action before entering the galleries because you don’t want them to run into any priceless pieces!
- Bring Your Whole Family: The Museum is family-friendly and offers free admission to kids 17 years old and younger.
- Follow the Rules: Remember that art is the focus, so you will have to keep your voice low in order not to disturb anyone around.
Final Thoughts
The Museum of Latin American Art is a wonderful place to visit with family and friends. You’ll be able to catch traveling exhibits from around the world, try out new foods in nearby cafes, and even take part in educational workshops for adults or kids!
Tips for Visiting Long Beach Museum of Art
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