La Jolla Museum of Contemporary Art

Built in 1915 as the South Moulton Villa of Ellen Browning Scripps, this fine example of architect Irving Gill's pioneering modern designs is set in elaborately landscaped grounds framing breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.

Village artists and supporters devotedly organized a fund-raising campaign that led to the acquisition of Miss Ellen's property and the foundation of La Jolla's first art center, initially intended for the benefit of local artists, the small society has evolved since 1941 into a major, internationally recognized arts institution.

The museum's permanent collection focuses on minimal, California, pop and other contemporary developments in art. It includes paintings, drawings, sculptures, photographs and a design collection that focuses on the evolution of the modern chair. In addition to its permanent collection, the museum originates numerous exhibitions and hosts major traveling shows. Over 100,000 visitors a year enjoy not only the museum's fine offerings, education programs and extensive reference library but also its spectacular site on Prospect Street. The adjacent 500-seat Sherwood Auditorium is host to weekly film series, live performances, chamber music concerts and lectures.