Broad Museum | Los Angeles

The Broad Museum (often simply referred to as The Broad) is a contemporary art museum located in downtown Los Angeles, California. It is known for its distinctive architecture, expansive collection of modern and contemporary art, and its commitment to making art accessible to the public. The museum is a cultural hub in Los Angeles and has quickly become one of the city's most popular art destinations since its opening.

History and Founding

Founding: The Broad Museum was founded by philanthropists Eli and Edythe Broad, two prominent collectors of contemporary art. Their personal collection of over 2,000 works forms the backbone of the museum's holdings. The museum was established to showcase their collection and to support the appreciation and understanding of contemporary art.

Opening: The museum opened to the public on September 20, 2015, in a specially designed building in downtown Los Angeles. It was the culmination of years of planning and is part of the Bunker Hill district's cultural development, joining other important institutions like the Walt Disney Concert Hall and the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA).

Architecture

Design: The building was designed by the architectural firm Diller Scofidio + Renfro in collaboration with Gensler, and its striking design has made the museum an architectural landmark. The building’s unique structure features a distinctive "veil-and-vault" design:

The veil is an outer shell made of aluminum and concrete that allows natural light to filter into the museum while creating a visually intriguing exterior. It is designed to resemble a lace-like pattern, giving the building an airy, futuristic feel.

The vault is the inner space of the museum that houses the collection. The design of the building aims to provide a balance between openness, natural light, and the need to protect the artwork from external elements.

The Oculus: One of the most notable features of the building is the oculus, a large open-air space that serves as the entrance to the museum. The oculus is surrounded by the veil, giving visitors a dramatic first impression of the museum when they enter.

Art Collection

The Broad Museum's collection is focused on contemporary art from the 1950s to the present, with an emphasis on postwar and contemporary American art. The collection spans a wide variety of media, including paintings, sculptures, photography, installations, and video art.

Key Artists: The Broad is home to works by some of the most important and influential artists in contemporary art, including:

Jeff Koons: Famous for his larger-than-life sculptures, including the iconic "Balloon Dog" and "Rabbit".

Roy Lichtenstein: Known for his pop art style, which incorporates comic book imagery and commercial techniques.

Yayoi Kusama: Recognized for her immersive installations, including the Infinity Rooms, which use mirrors to create endless reflections of colorful polka dots.

Andy Warhol: A major figure in the pop art movement, known for his iconic images of Campbell’s soup cans and Marilyn Monroe.

Cindy Sherman: A pioneering artist in the field of photography, whose work explores themes of identity and gender.

Takashi Murakami: Known for his playful, bright, and psychedelic works that blend traditional Japanese art with pop culture.

Notable Works: Some of the standout works in the collection include:

"The Physical Impossibility of Death in the Mind of Someone Living" by Damien Hirst: A formaldehyde tank containing a preserved shark.

"Untitled" (L.A. Women) by Ed Ruscha: A large-scale text-based painting.

"Untitled (Perfect Lovers)" by Felix Gonzalez-Torres: A work consisting of two synchronized clocks that symbolically represent the artist's personal relationship.

Exhibitions and Programming

Rotating Exhibitions: The Broad hosts rotating exhibitions that feature both works from its own collection and temporary exhibitions of contemporary artists. These exhibitions focus on a wide range of themes, such as pop culture, gender, identity, and political activism.

Special Programs: The museum offers educational programs, such as public tours, artist talks, and workshops, which engage visitors in discussions about contemporary art. There are also family-friendly activities to encourage younger audiences to explore art in an interactive way.

Themed Exhibits: The Broad has hosted themed exhibitions such as "The Space Between" (a collection of installations and sculptures) and "Past, Present, Future" (featuring emerging and established artists).

Admission

Free Admission: One of the most remarkable aspects of The Broad is that it offers free general admission to the public. However, some special exhibitions or events may require an admission fee. This policy reflects the museum's commitment to making contemporary art accessible to as many people as possible.

Tickets: While general admission is free, visitors are required to book timed tickets in advance. This helps manage the flow of visitors and ensures that guests have a quality experience in the museum's galleries.

Visitor Experience

Visitor Services: The Broad Museum offers a variety of services to enhance the visitor experience, including a museum store that sells art-related merchandise and books, as well as a café that serves refreshments.

Outdoor Space: The museum features a small outdoor space with seating and views of the city. It is an ideal spot for visitors to relax and enjoy the museum's atmosphere.

Interactive Spaces: The Broad is known for creating engaging, interactive spaces that invite visitors to engage with the art. One example is Yayoi Kusama’s Infinity Room installations, where visitors can step inside a mirrored space that creates an endless, mesmerizing reflection of colorful lights.

Educational Programs

The Broad is committed to education and community outreach through a variety of programs aimed at fostering a deeper understanding of contemporary art:

School Visits: The museum offers school groups the opportunity to experience art through specially designed tours and workshops.

Public Tours: Free public tours are available on a daily basis, offering insight into the museum’s collections and temporary exhibitions.

Lectures and Events: The museum hosts lectures and discussions with artists, curators, and scholars. These events delve into contemporary art practices and the themes explored in current exhibitions.

Art Making: Workshops for all ages encourage visitors to create their own art, inspired by the works in the collection.

Location and Access

Address: The Broad Museum is located at 221 S. Grand Avenue, Los Angeles, CA, in the downtown Los Angeles area, making it accessible to visitors staying or visiting other downtown attractions like the Walt Disney Concert Hall and Grand Park.

Parking: The museum has a parking garage located nearby, but parking in downtown Los Angeles can be challenging, especially on weekends. There are also public transportation options available, including Metro lines and buses.

Future Plans and Growth

The Broad continues to grow its collection and programs, aiming to expand its influence as a leading institution for contemporary art. As the museum continues to build relationships with living artists and engage with the global art community, it remains a vital part of the cultural landscape of Los Angeles.

Summary

The Broad Museum is a dynamic and influential institution in the world of contemporary art. With its stunning architecture, expansive collection, and commitment to free access, The Broad provides visitors with an immersive experience in the world of modern and contemporary art. Whether you're an art enthusiast, a casual visitor, or a first-time museum-goer, The Broad offers something for everyone, making it a must-see destination in Los Angeles.