Orange County Museum of Art
The Orange County Museum of Art (OCMA), located in Costa Mesa, California, is a leading cultural institution dedicated to modern and contemporary art. Originally founded in 1962 as the Balboa Pavilion Gallery, it was later renamed the Newport Harbor Art Museum before adopting its current name in 1997. In 2022, OCMA moved to a new, state-of-the-art building designed by the acclaimed architecture firm Morphosis, led by Thom Mayne. OCMA’s collection features over 4,500 works of art, emphasizing California artists from the early 20th century to the present. Notable artists in the collection include Ed Ruscha, Mary Corse and Catherine Opie. The museum is known for its commitment to showcasing diverse and innovative exhibitions, often focusing on contemporary issues and new artistic practices. Significant exhibitions have included “California Biennial,” which highlights emerging artists from the state, and “Pacific Rim,” exploring cultural connections across the Pacific. The museum also actively engages the community through educational programs, workshops and public events, aiming to make art accessible and relevant to all audiences. With its new facility, OCMA continues to expand its reach and influence, providing a dynamic space for art and cultural exchange in Southern California.