Current

China Modern: Designing 20th Century Popular Culture 

Opening reception April 14, 2012
Open to the public through July 1, 2012

The dynamism of 20th century China is on full display in China Modern, which chronicles the country's changing character through a celebration of its graphic art and material culture. The more than 180 objects demonstrate how both political ideologies and cultural values are transmitted through conventional objects. Curator Kalim Winata believes that "these everyday materials have been the small steps by which great cultural shifts are made." This is the first exhibition to track graphic art and product design from the Qing Dynasty through the tumult of the 20th century, while also reflecting on the impact art advertising has had on the contemporary experience.

China Modern was developed by the Pacific Asia Museum, Pasadena, CA, tour organized by International Arts & Artists, Washington, DC.

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Upcoming Exhibit

Lay Down the Boogie: OC in the Disco Era
Opening Reception: Saturday, July 21

Disco was something of a cultural reset, a letdown and escape after a decade and a half of tumult that started with the 1960s protests, wars, and assassinations. Then everything was questioned. In disco, which at its best induced a mindless trance, almost nothing was questioned. Come see what was happening in OC during the disco era.

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Continuous

Solid Design: Leo Fender's Telecaster

Opened March 22, 2008
Open to the public through June 3, 2012

The first commercially successful solidbody electric guitar, an instrument that changed music history. Numerous examples from the early years will be on display. There will also be a noticeable celebrity component in the images and presentation, including Telecasters once owned by stars. More about the Solid Design exhibit.