USC Pacific Asia Museum: A Cultural Bridge

The USC Pacific Asia Museum, located in Pasadena, California, stands as a unique institution dedicated to the arts and cultures of Asia and the Pacific Islands. Established in 1971 and later becoming part of the University of Southern California in 2013, the museum plays a vital role in promoting intercultural understanding through its diverse collections and programs. The museum's building, a California State Historic Landmark, is itself a work of art. Designed in the style of a Chinese imperial palace, it was completed in 1924 by Grace Nicholson as her residence, galleries, and emporium. The architecture features a central courtyard with a serene garden, a small pool, and intricate decorative carvings, offering visitors a tranquil and aesthetically pleasing environment. The museum's collection includes over 15,000 objects from across Asia and the Pacific Islands, spanning 5,000 years. Highlights include the Harari Collection of Japanese paintings and drawings, one of the largest collections of Japanese folk paintings outside Japan, and a South Pacific bark cloth collection. The museum also presents groundbreaking exhibitions of contemporary art. Visitors can explore a range of exhibits, attend performances, lectures, classes, workshops, and festivals that showcase the arts and cultures of Asia and the Pacific Islands. The museum also offers educational programs for all ages, including workshops, school initiatives, and family days. Currently, the museum is open Wednesday through Sunday from 11 am to 5 pm. Admission is $20 for adults, $15 for seniors and students with ID. Admission is free for children under 17, military personnel, and USC staff, faculty, and students. Free parking is available in the museum's lot at the corner of Los Robles Avenue and Union Street.