Santa Monica’s legendary art complex Bergamot Station Arts Center came alive last Friday night with the event 30 Open Doors, an open house in honor of the site’s remarkable past, present, and future.
The Santa Monica Museum of Art presented the festive programming in conjunction with 30 Open Doors.
SMMoA Executive Director Elsa Longhauser said the event was a huge success.
“There was about 1000 visitors,” Longhauser said. “There were many people who I hadn’t seen before. There was complete diversity with young people, older people, and families. Everyone was having a good time. It was a lovely crowd.”
Visitors were able to stroll the complex to see work by acclaimed artists at the SMMoA and nearly three dozen galleries during the one-night-only event featuring extended hours.
For first-time visitors to Bergamot Station, many were surprised to find what’s on offer, including fine jewelry, handmade papers, fine florals, and one-of-a-kind holiday gifts.
Longhauser said the night was filled with music and art performances, holiday carolers, and food trucks.
“One of the highlights for us at the museum was the carol-oke machine, which was so much fun,” she said. “My staff was very involved in it. I didn’t realize I have staff that could become a cast for a musical comedy. Everybody was singing and it was very festive.”
SMMoA’s GRACIE Holiday Shop was popular with its expanded and extended items for sale featuring one-of-a-kind works by Peter Shire’s Echo Park Pottery, artist Lynn Hanson, and jewelry designer Lisa Jenks.
The Santa Monica Museum of Art is located at 2525 Michigan Avenue, Bergamot Station Building G-1, Santa Monica. For more information, phone 310.586.6488 visit www.smmoa.org.
