The Geffen Contemporary at MOCA

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Kim Cooper

Joined 10 years ago

The versatile Geffen is a good fit for MOCA's larger installations and spillover exhibitions.. Tucked away on a pedestrian side street in Little Tokyo, this easily adaptable hall was once a warehouse. With its sprawling spaces, the MOCA annex often houses exhibitions that are too large or cumbersome for the main museum in California Plaza. This increased space allows for frequent interactive installations that blend visitors with the art. Aficionados taking in the latest show often rub elbows with passersby patronizing nearby shops and sushi houses. Formerly known as the Temporary Contemporary, the Geffen (adapted for reuse by Frank Gehry) boasts continually surprising works from up-and-coming superstars along with established masters. The museum's collection is especially strong in Pop art. Regularly on display are important early pieces by Robert Rauschenberg, Andy Warhol and Claes Oldenburg, whose legendary "Store" installation (pieces inspired by everyday objects in storefronts) can be seen in the south gallery.

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timothy

Joined 11 years ago

Italian Art show. Recently visited this museum for the first time. I liked the space, but loved the show of the Italian multi media art that was being show at the time.

This was the first good show of Multi media art I had seen since leaving San Francisco. I would totally recommend this to my friends. I especially liked the time line spanning the whole period for these particular artists.

There also was a small show for the interns, going on when I was there. It was nice to see that this museum is working with the community to give young artists a place to exhibit and work with established artists. I am jealous!, in a good way.

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ixel morena

Joined 11 years ago

Not much to look at on the outside.... But on the inside, this place is amazing. I've always considered the Geffen (TC) as the naughty twin of MOCA. All the talent of the curators of MOCA, but with a little more edgy feel. This place doesn't win awards for it's exterior, it does however host exceptional shows. You can catch a shuttle from MOCA to the Geffen and back again for free. The Geffen also provides the same Thursday night free admission, so there is no reason not to go.

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ClaudineToo

Joined 11 years ago

Old School. Before MOCA took up its place in its new digs, it held court in this vast warehouse space. I actually prefer this location to the fancy new building on California plaza, because it doesn't distract from the art. Also, the exhibitions seem to be a little more adventurous in this satellite location.