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The Foster Museum: A Wilderness Journey in Watercolor

Explore watercolor wilderness Journeys at The Foster Museum in Palo Alto, uniting art, nature, and a passion for conservation.

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The Foster Museum in Palo Alto is dedicated to showcasing the watercolor wilderness journeys of artist-explorer Tony Foster. The museum unites art and nature, displaying Foster's detailed watercolor diaries from remote locations around the world, inspiring visitors to appreciate and protect wild places.

A brief summary to The Foster Museum

  • Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-4 pm
  • Friday 10 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 12 pm-4 pm
  • Sunday 12 pm-4 pm

Local tips

  • Admission is free, but appointments are requested. Book online in advance to ensure entry.
  • Take advantage of the complimentary audio tour to gain deeper insights into Tony Foster's art and his wilderness adventures.
  • Check the museum's website for upcoming events, workshops, and lectures to enhance your visit.
  • Allow 1-1.5 hours to fully experience all of the galleries and exhibitions.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Foster Museum is located at 940 Commercial Street in Palo Alto. If you are nearby, walking is a viable option. From the corner of E. Charleston and San Antonio Road, walk along Commercial Street to find the museum. It's located in an industrial area, a short walk from surrounding residential and commercial zones.

  • Public Transport

    The Foster Museum is accessible via public transportation. Caltrain's San Antonio Station is the closest train station. From the station, it is approximately a 20-minute walk to the museum. VTA bus line 21 also stops nearby. A single VTA bus fare is $2.50.

  • Driving

    If driving, The Foster Museum is located at 940 Commercial Street, Palo Alto. Street parking is generally available, and there is limited parking behind the museum. Check local parking regulations for any restrictions. Parking is free. From Highway 101, exit at San Antonio Road and head west. Turn onto Commercial Street. The museum will be on your left.

Unlock the Best of The Foster Museum

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Discover more about The Foster Museum

The Foster Museum, nestled in Palo Alto, California, offers a unique and inspiring experience, dedicated to the art of Tony Foster, a British artist-explorer who captures the essence of the world's wildernesses through his intricate watercolor 'Journeys'. Opened in 2016, the museum houses the permanent collection of the Foster Art & Wilderness Foundation, presenting Foster's complete exhibitions, which combine art, conservation, and education. Each 'Journey' is a series of paintings accompanied by notes and symbolic objects, reflecting Foster's expeditions to remote locations such as Mount Everest, the American Southwest, and the rainforests of Guyana. His work is motivated by a desire to record and share the wonder he experiences in nature, providing evidence and inspiration to preserve these extraordinary places. The museum itself is designed to be a contemplative space, encouraging visitors to connect with both the art and the natural world. Formerly an ambulance storage facility for the Lucille Packard Children's Hospital, the 14,000-square-foot building was transformed into a LEED Silver certified exhibition space. The Foster Museum offers free admission and provides audio tours to enhance the visitor experience, offering insights into Foster's adventures and the stories behind his artwork. The museum also hosts events, workshops, and lectures, engaging the community and encouraging dialogue around art and culture.

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