Current Exhibitions
To learn more about an exhibition, please click on its title.
Rydell Award Winners: December 17, 2011–March 18, 2012
This is the third in the series of exhibitions that feature the works of the Rydell Visual Art Fellowship recipients. After Roy Rydell’s death — two years after his wife Frances died — their estate was bequeathed to the Community Foundation to establish a fund that would be used to give financial support to help [...]
The Espresso Police: December 17, 2011–March 18, 2012
Café Pergolesi, the first generation of modern coffee shops in Santa Cruz, was founded by Frank and Judy Foreman. In conjunction with Futzie Nutzle, this installation will serve as a gallery/café with a performative bent. The Espresso Police will make unannounced visits and offer coffee to Museum visitors throughout the exhibition. There will be musical performances [...]
Futzie Nutzle: December 17, 2011–March 18, 2012
Artist Futzie Nutzle, aka Bruce Kleinsmith, is an arts activist who helped make Santa Cruz the rich artist-oriented city it is today. This exhibition highlights his drawings and assemblages, some of which have been collected by and featured in the Museum of Modern Art, Rolling Stone Magazine and The Japan Times. Nutzle’s work was shown [...]
The Butterfly Effect: December 17, 2011-March 18 2012
Can the flutter of a butterfly’s wings set off atmospheric changes that alter events? Graham’s photographic installation allows you to step into a world of light drawings, hanging scrolls, magnifying glasses and specimens for close observation. Artist and curator Shelby Graham creates a delicate installation of fragile wings that can melt when held too close to the light [...]
Where the Redwoods Meet the Sea: A History of Santa Cruz County and its People
Long-term exhibit; History Gallery 2nd Floor. The Museum’s installation is devoted to a thematic and topical interpretation of county history, from its earliest days to its more recent past. Dedicated to the uniqueness and diversity of Santa Cruz County and its residents, the exhibit describes native peoples, the Mission period, early immigrants, early industries, and [...]