Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History, Santa Cruz

The Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History (MAH), nestled in the downtown of Santa Cruz, is a dynamic cultural hub founded in 1996. This nonprofit educational institution and museum fosters community engagement and enrichment, aiming to create unique experiences and connections through art and history.

At the core of MAH’s offerings are diverse art and history exhibitions, interactive installations, and educational programs that cater to all ages. The museum, which is a successor to the Santa Cruz County Museum of Art founded in 1982 and the Santa Cruz Historical Society established in 1954, houses a comprehensive history collection with over 7,000 items. This includes a permanent gallery dedicated to the history of the Monterey Bay Area, alongside a well-stocked research library and archive.

MAH is also home to the Fred D. McPherson Jr. Publications Fund, which supports the production of the Santa Cruz County History Journal and other historical publications. The museum extends its reach beyond its primary location by managing Abbott Square community plaza and historical sites like Evergreen Cemetery, Davenport Jail, and the Octagon Building.

The museum's exhibitions are designed to be inclusive, with multilingual displays in English and Spanish. Highlights include "Conexiones," featuring select works from the Museum of Latin American Art, and "Queer Santa Cruz," which explores the local LGBTQ community's history. "Art & Healing: 30 Years After the Loma Prieta Earthquake" provides insight into the community's resilience and recovery post-disaster.

Outdoor exhibits and the Mary and Harry Blanchard Sculpture Garden offer additional spaces for engagement and reflection, often focusing on community life and responses to challenges. Furthermore, the museum's vibrant event calendar includes film festivals and artist panels, providing platforms for artistic expression and community dialogue.