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Museum of Latin American Art
628 Alamitos Avenue Long Beach, CA 90802 (562) 437-1689
Last update: 7 January 1999
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I didn't know what to expect from this museum. A few weeks before I happened to find a pamphlet describing the museum and it's facilities. I had not heard of a museum in this area which concentrated on art from Central and South America. Latin American art is of great interest to me, so finding this place was a nice surprise. I was fortunate to find the time to visit the museum after the new year and I'm very glad that I did.
Sunset in Marraquesh Courtesy MOLAA |
The building is one story. An entryway holds a space for a few pieces and a transition area to the main exhibits. Two smaller galleries lead into the main gallery. The building is small, but the facility is very friendly. I went on a Saturday which was also lucky because on Saturday and Sunday MOLAA presents live classical guitar in the main gallery. The combination of the latin artwork and the music made the experience wonderful. The pieces had more presence than they would have if the guitar had not accompanied the show.
The staff, from top to bottom, were friendly and helpful. Everyone I met were very pleasant and professional. The attitude added more to the experience I had during my visit.
Novia/The Bride Courtesy MOLAA |
The VIVA Restaurant is also on the MOLAA grounds. VIVA features food from Central and South America. The restaurant, like the music in the main gallery is meant to give the visitor's experience another dimension.
El Mago en el Parque/The Magician in the Park Courtesy MOLAA |
Information regarding the museum and shows can be found on MOLAA's website.The site is also very well put together and very informative. The website features two panoramic portraits of the galleries. With this feature you can preview the show from your home.
Since a trip to MOLAA can be a short one, I would recommend a quick trip a across the street to the Oceanic Art Museum, a very small gallery with works from the pacific islands. This takes a few minutes but the contrast in styles is very interesting.
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