We couldn’t believe it. It was magical! While taking a break from condo hunting, here we were having ice tea in the most gorgeous setting possible. It was April 2014 and we had just discovered Long Beach. Wanting to move south from the San Fernando Valley to be closer to family and to change up our lifestyle, the journey had unexpectedly led us here to Bluff Park.
We had rented an AIRBNB for the weekend to just hang out in the “hood” and see if it spoke to us. It did…. loud and clear … and that Saturday afternoon at Claire’s Restaurant at the Museum really cinched the deal. We found our condo on Temple and 2nd the next day and put our Northridge house on the market the following Friday. We were moved into our new home in mid June. The plan went mostly perfect and We Love Long Beach.
The Long Beach Museum of Art has now become a big part of my life. I am currently in training to become a Docent. It is such a glorious feeling to realize we have this incredible jewel in our neighborhood. The museum campus includes lovely historical buildings and the majestic main building which opened in 1996. It is open to the public Thursday thru Sunday and is free on Fridays.
Art education is a major component of the complex. Every 5th grader in the Long Beach School District visits the museum for a tour and a creative workshop as part of their curriculum.The galleries’ exhibit primarily contemporary art that is innovative and exciting. The exhibits change every few months and there are wonderful workshops open to the public on select Thursday evenings. Long Beach After Dark is a sparkling party event that features art, libations and music and takes place twice a year. The gift shop is filled with treasures and reflects the eclectic nature of the venue. The Bluff Park Neighborhood Association was thrilled to hold the December 2015 Community meeting at the Museum.
We sometimes take for granted what is so available and close at hand. I heartily encourage everyone to take some time to relax into the views and be inspired by the art just steps away!
By Penny Biroc
