Skirball Cultural Center

2701 N Sepulveda Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90049, USA

Address:	2701 N Sepulveda Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90049, USA
Phone:	+1 310-440-4500
Site:	skirball.org
Rating:	4.6
Working:	Closed 12–5PM 12–5PM 12–5PM 12–5PM 10AM–5PM 10AM–5PM

Location

Photos 100

Reviews 11

Kelly C.

If youre looking for an "off-the-beaten path" experience of Los Angeles, this is both a delightful and somber experience. The Noahs Ark exhibit is nothing short of an awe-inspiring experience for young and old as several rooms have repurposed familiar items into life-size interactive animals that beg the young ones to touch (and you can!), while asking you to step back and admire the artistry that has gone into crafting these beloved beasts. Nothing about it feels "religious" (and this is coming from a lesbian mom who was raised Catholic), but instead feels like an artists take on an epic story with a playground as the medium. While many museums often just present items along the perimeter of a room with a sign explaining the significance, the cultural center exhibits have done an exceptional job of creating installations, setting, and mood so that each observer may more closely experience the customs and somber history of the Jewish heritage. Though we didnt spend much time here, I was impressed by the care with which everything was presented. The Roy Lichtenstein exhibit, on the other hand added a certain "pop" of color and liveliness to the center, which is largely a dimly lit experience. Overall this was a great experience that Id recommend to anyone and would love to come back when its not raining to experience the outdoor grounds, which seem worth exploring.

Hanae K

I want to take my best friends kids here someday! Even if youre not religious it is a fun place to go at least once (with kids). I appreciate the creative interaction they have at Noahs Ark. They even have an art studio for them!!! I may be a little bias for giving them 4 stars instead of 3. I came here to go see one of my favorite illustrator, Gary Basemans exhibit. Hes the one who created that cartoon show, Teachers Pet. His exhibit is until August (?) and it blew my mind. Ive never seen an exhibit as creative as his. It was worth paying $10 because I was in there for more than an hour. I left the museum satisfied with what I saw. Basemans exhibit, "THE DOOR IS ALWAYS OPEN": - Im really sad I missed out on his opening night. Shepard Fairy DJd and Baseman gave everyone a custom baseman-esque "key to his home" - He created a layout of his house he grew up in and each room told a story about his childhood and his art was everywhere. I was in awe (note: i am an art geek) WARNING: Kids might not like basemans artwork and wont want to enter some of the room cuz its creepy. PARKING: Is free! You can see it if you enter the driveway after you exit the freeway. If you come from the opposite direction then you may miss it because its in your blind spot. ENTRANCE: $10 for adults. I heard its free on Thursdays but they close around 5pm (check their website).

Joanne Serin

I love working as a volunteer at Skirball because its exhibitions live up to its mission of showing the contributions of diverse people in many walks of life to helping us understand each other to make a better world. I have met so many wonderful people who both work and visit. Its not "just" a Jewish museum, thpugh the Core exhibit, Visions and Values, teaches us mainly about Jewish culture, but also the immigrant experience of all of us, from ancient Israel to holidays to immigration and the Civil Rights movement. It displays the influence of all cultures to life in the U.S. These values are exemplified by exhibitions such as Ansel Adams photographs of Manzanar, Chasing Dreams (Baseball and American Life), Pop for the People (Roy Lichtenstein), Noahs Ark, current exhibit of Paul Simon Words and Music (until Sept. 3), then the next exhibit of Jews in Latin America, and the side variety of films, adult education classes (like the one I just signed up for, Jewish Artists of Paris-- 3 of my favorite topics!), family events, and childrens activities.

Linda Arlington

This is a great center for learning the culture and history of a group of people who survived and lived through so much. It show how much of a contribution was made to science, health, and ALL of the arts! We went to see a special exhibit on Paul Simon. He contributed to music, writing and culture. Sadly, this special exhibit ends, Sunday, September 03, 2017. Parking is free and there is an admission fee. $12.00 for most, $9.00 for Seniors. Children $7.00 ages 2-7. Speaking of children is an exhibit of Noahs Ark. It is a wonderful mixture of art through the use of recycled materials. It is all hands on for children of all ages. They can crawl in and out of things and it encourages the use of imagination. Go to this museum and learn and feel and express yourself.

Jc Olivera

Nice modern building! Ive been at the Skirball Cultural Center so many times, mostly for specials events/ awards and dinners, they have plenty of parking space, the only problem is getting there, to get there you have to take the 405, if your event is before 5pm on any day, youll find traffic no matter if you are coming from the 10 or the 101. Other than that the place is nice, is big the facilities are always clean, the staff is nice and friendly.

Terrell Woods

The Skirball Cultural Center is much more than a museum. Obviously the dedication to the stories and heritage of the Jewish people is prominent, but there are many other stories being told here. If you have children the Skirball has many hands on exhibits and activities that can easily entertain your child for many hours. The Skirball also knows how to party with their summer series evening concerts. One of the hidden gems of Los Angeles.

Jeanette Beaulieu

We thoroughly enjoyed the interactive Noahs arc exhibit for kids followed by a musical performance where the kids got to join in with drums of their own. The museum celebrates the Jewish community in America but it isnt pushy/preachy. Thats a separate part of the museum. Dont miss it though, the halocaust exhibit is particularly moving. The cafe was very nice as well. Easy to find parking and the gift shop is stocked with fun toys.

JR Curley

What a great cultural center! A wonderful space for kids to explore, learn and play. The interior is well maintained, with different areas to check out, physical items to manipulate, and staff engaging with the parents and children. The outside spaces are also nice, with relaxing areas to eat, and auditorium style seating in another location. Before going get tickets online and check to see if theyre hosting an event!

Tats Wada

Great place to take your kids. Our kids love Noahs Arc here. Its very safe space that young kids can run around, climb and explore. You do have to reserve your spot ahead and their online system is not very intuitive. They also have craft studio and theater with music performances during the summer. And they do some really cool art exhibits for adults. Offers plenty of free parking. I highly recommend.

A Private User

the exhibit was fine, probably the best around LA, but definitely mediocre compared to other childrens museums and events weve attended. the worst part was the grumpy staff of elderly volunteers. they seemed confused that small and sometimes noisy kids were invading their institution. hopefully there has been an adjustment in expectations and the welcome is now warm and inviting.

Birgit Schafer

Lovely place, peaceful and beatifully designed. The scale is great as well. Its not an overwhelming space. Love that they control how many attendees through their ticketing system. Noahs Ark is a meticulously designed exhibit appealing to both children and those who appreciate thoughtful design. A lovely few hours were spent by me, my grandson and his Mom. We plan on coming back.