Oakland Museum of California, Art, history and natural science museum in Oakland, California, United States
The Oakland Museum of California occupies a modern building with multiple levels displaying art, historical objects, and information about California's natural world. The spaces are generously laid out and encourage exploration of different themes.
The museum was founded in 1969 by merging three earlier institutions, each of which had preserved artworks, historical objects, or natural collections. This union created a place where different aspects of California could be shown in one location.
The museum displays works by California artists and collections that tell the stories of the region's diverse communities. Visitors can see how the local art scene has developed over decades and which artists have shaped the region.
The museum is within easy walking distance of Lake Merritt BART station and accessible by public transit. Visitors should check current opening times in advance, as schedules may vary seasonally.
The museum's rooftop holds Tony Labat's "Big Peace IV", a large yellow peace sign in a section freely accessible whenever the museum is open. The 2013 renovation added terraced roof gardens, patios and outdoor sculpture, with landscape design by Dan Kiley and gardens by Geraldine Knight Scott.
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