Norton Simon Museum of Art, Pasadena (must see)

The Norton Simon Museum, located in Pasadena, is a renowned art museum that has evolved from its origins as the Pasadena Art Institute to become a premier venue for the arts. It is situated along the picturesque Colorado Boulevard, famously part of the Tournament of Roses's Rose Parade route. The museum's exterior, characterized by its distinctive brown tile, often appears in the backdrop of television broadcasts during the parade.

The museum boasts an impressive collection of over 11,000 artworks, although only about 800 to 900 pieces are exhibited at any given time. The collection is internationally celebrated and includes European paintings, sculptures, tapestries, Asian sculptures, paintings, and woodblock prints. One of the highlights of the museum’s exterior is its array of sculptures, including notable works by Rodin positioned near the entrance, and various other pieces dispersed along Colorado Boulevard and around a scenic pond on the museum grounds.

The Norton Simon Museum is unique in that it does not own the artworks it displays; these are on long-term loans from The Norton Simon Foundation and the Norton Simon Art Foundation. Historically, the museum has been conservative in expanding its collection beyond the initial acquisitions by its founder, although it continues to accept gifts and occasionally adds to its holdings through donations.

In addition to its static exhibits, the museum actively engages the public with a variety of programs. The Norton Simon Theater, located within the museum, hosts film screenings daily, along with lectures, symposia, and a variety of dance and musical performances throughout the year. The museum also curates temporary exhibitions that focus on specific artists, movements, periods, or regions, enhancing the educational and cultural experience for its visitors.

The Norton Simon Museum is a cultural gem in Pasadena, offering a rich array of art and engaging programs, making it a vital institution both locally and internationally in the art community.