Torrance Art Museum — Attraction in Torrance

Excellent museum well placed near other cultural activities in Torrance--a public records repository, a court house, a senior center, a large pool, a public library, the Nakano Theater, as well as right across the street from a strip mall where you can get a massage that has got to be good--there is a photo of someone who is the spitting image of Ryan O'Neal getting a massage to advertise the place. What is more, is that Hugo's Deli is right at that strip mall practically across from the museum. You can get good deli--I believe Boar's Head--and excellent service. And if you need to gas up or to go to an ATM before you get to this excellent museum, there is a Valero station right before you get to the museum at the same strip mall with Hugo's Deli and the well advertised massage joint. The gentleman who owns and who operates the Valero is a hero to his corner and to his name. Recently at the museum, I viewed a marvelous work by a Korean artist that I paired--they let me photograph with my cell phone in the museum-- with a Japanese American children's book that is based both on color theory and team theory and team work--good equipe and good atelier. I was inspired to do this because when I entered the museum, I saw a quote from R. Barthes's 'Camera Lucida." I bought the children's art book that I paired with the work by the Korean artist at the Japanese American Cultural Festival right next door that was held the weekend that I visited the museum. That festival featured excellent Shodo Calligraphy and good taiko drumming, as well as beautiful paper stamp art and even James Bond as a toy. I didn't buy 007. And not because Daniel Craig is British, but now has to advertise Lillet. I love Mr. Craig. I believe I have read that he was even homeless once while waiting for a break in his career. It was because the lady selling 007 couldn't tell me whether he was Nissei, Sansei or any other generation of James Bond. Roger Moore? Sean Connery? Not knowing, I wasn't going to play. However, I was able to make up for FedEx's pretty recent loss of my order of a book documenting John Szarkowski's exhibit from the 1970s of Japanese prisoner of war photography from, I believe, a Museum of Modern Art exhibit low these many years in NYC. How was I able to do that? By buying a book called "Impounded" by Dorothea Lange. I don't like the title very much. I believe that some of Ms. Lange's Works Progress Administration photographs of non-Japanese American subjects glamorize poverty. While "Impounded" does not glamorize poverty, it is not good art to use a word that now belongs to cars that have been towed away for a photography book about being a prisoner of war in one's own homeland. Why do I say that? Because at the very Japanese American cultural convention where I bought the book of Lange's, there was a car--a Toyota Yaris, I believe--with Japanese Consuluar plates. So if anyone wants to reissue Ms. Lange's work, let's do it under a different moniker. There was deft structure and desert color in some paintings featuring southwestern landscape work in, among other places, Arizona. Great brush and palette knife work. As for the real altar piece for me--and I lay this at the tomb of R. Barthes and Dorothea Lange's subjects and all others who have a heart for the shadows of children in search of a team, I was able to lay the children's book about color theory and team work at the feet of a punctured, but not wounding, work by the Korean artist. That work, because of its see through pointilliation, cast shadows of play about the museum. I put down the children's book and photographed its bleeding colors with shadows to throw up all suns. And I hope that some sun comes to that museum and to that corner of Torrance even when it rains. Please go often and become a patron of the other activities that take place here. And don't forget the vendors across the street. There is also a place where you can get take out Chinese. Someone from Louisiana vouched to me for that place's fried oysters. I can't wait to try them....

The Torrance Art Museum is a true gem that effortlessly blends contemporary art, innovation, and community spirit. Nestled in the heart of Torrance, this museum may not be the largest in the area, but it offers a deeply impactful experience that rivals any major art institution. From its carefully curated exhibitions to its inviting atmosphere, the museum is a must-visit for anyone passionate about art, culture, and creativity.

The museum’s exhibits are consistently outstanding, showcasing a wide range of mediums, from visual art to multimedia installations, often focusing on thought-provoking, cutting-edge pieces. I was particularly impressed by how the museum highlights local and emerging artists, offering fresh perspectives and giving voice to those who may not yet have the recognition they deserve. The curation is always thoughtful, bringing together works that not only captivate but challenge the viewer to reflect on deeper themes like identity, society, and innovation.

One of the things that truly stands out is the intimate, welcoming space. The galleries are clean and spacious, allowing you to fully engage with each piece without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. It's easy to get lost in the art and lose track of time, and that’s exactly what great art should do. The museum creates an environment that feels personal and inclusive, where visitors can connect with the art and each other.

The staff is exceptional. They are not only friendly and approachable but also incredibly knowledgeable about the exhibits. Their passion for art and their eagerness to share insights truly enhance the experience. I felt like I was guided through each exhibit with a sense of purpose, gaining a deeper understanding and appreciation of the work on display.

In addition to its fantastic exhibitions, the museum regularly hosts community events and educational programs that make art accessible to people of all ages. Whether it’s an artist talk, a family-friendly workshop, or an event focused on a specific theme, the Torrance Art Museum is committed to connecting with and enriching the local community.

If you're looking for a space to explore cutting-edge contemporary art, immerse yourself in thought-provoking exhibitions, and experience the true heart of the local art scene, the Torrance Art Museum is an absolute must-visit. It’s a testament to the power of art to inspire, educate, and connect.

"The Torrance Art Museum is a vibrant, dynamic cultural hub that offers a fresh, engaging perspective on the world of contemporary art. It’s a space where creativity thrives, and where visitors are invited to explore and be inspired by the transformative...

Having been to museums in more than 40 countries, I was surprised to find such a small museum in my current home city be both free and also so excellently curated. The photography they had, in a special exhibit that isn’t permanent, was just exceptional and I could have stayed for hours just enjoying that aspect of the collection. I also enjoyed the exhibit in coordination with curators in Germany. The staff member I talked to was knowledgeable and super helpful. Parking is plentiful and the location is good, close to several other things to do if you’re visiting and don’t live in Torrance. I’d highly recommend making time to visit this museum if you’re...