Oceanside Museum of Art

I’ve only been to the Oceanside Art Museum a few of times, and every time I go I think I should stop in more often. It is relatively small but I like that it is small enough to wander through all the shows without feeling completely overwhelmed. Because I don’t spend so much time running around trying to see it all I have more time to spend with the pieces that interest me the most. We went in a free first Sunday (students are also free with ID) and it was easy to find parking and not at all crowded. The art I’ve seen has a pretty wide range, so if you keep an eye on there shows there’s probably something for everyone!

The Ruth Jameson exhibit is beyond amazing. Such a beautiful experience.

A small museum with decent art but I would not drive across cities to look at this stuff. There wasn’t a single piece from a famous artist that I knew of.
The gift shop was lacking as well. Not that I wanted to buy anything, but I would have liked the option of buying a magnet featuring some of the art they have in their museum but this is the first museum I’ve come across that does not provide you with themed magnets. How are you supposed to show others you’re cultured by way of the magnets on your fridge?

This is a wonderful hidden gem in the heart of downtown Oceanside! I still come across so many people that have lived in Oceanside or nearby for all of their lives and have no clue that we have a museum.
There are 2 main galleries downstairs on the first level and two smaller galleries upstairs. Each of the 4 galleries typically has a rotating exhibition in it, and a lot of times they are local artists. There is a wonderful James Hubbell statue outside.
The museum also holds some great events! Art After Dark is held about 3 to 4 times per year and always has a theme around the event usually based off of some of the current exhibits at the time. The one around Halloween is my favorite – this past year was Day of the Dead themed and most people dress up and there is great food catered with local beers and wines, craft and photo stations, costume contests, live music, live art, etc. Jazz at the Museum is also great to see live music and explore the current exhibits.
Become a member because it is a great price for families or individuals and you will get free entrance, some guest passes, discounts on event prices, and even a discount in the museum store that has a great mix of eclectic and fun gifts.

Such a lovely museum! The museum is not huge, but is large enough to feature a significant amount of pieces. When I visited, I actually got to meet one of the artists, Jean Wells, which was pretty exciting. The people who work at the museum are very nice and are knowledgeable about the pieces. It is free to military and their family members, and the museum is located near lots of restaurants, ice cream shops, and the street market, so you can easily make a nice day out of enjoying the museum and the surrounding area.

A pretty museum situated a few blocks from the beach. They have some unusual times, so be sure to check out what time they open and close. You get free admission with your student ID, so I recommend bringing that here. You’ll be saving $ 8. This museum is pretty small and not huge like LACMA or the few other museums I’ve been to. I do like the art displays. Just take your time and walk around and enjoy the exhibits. My personal favorite is Urban Entropy.

This review is only about Beauty in the beast exhibition by Neville Page.
I was here for Neville Page’s exhibition.
His work was nicely presented and the presentation was very inspiring.
The younger museum staff were friendlier and helpful.
I will definitely coming back if he will holds another exhibition in the future.

Cool collection! Enjoyed the photography and other exhibits. Smallish and cozy museum with very friendly staff. great for a relaxing trip while you’re around town visiting Balboa park etc. Bring your kids along, sure they’ll enjoy the mini memorabilia from ancient past.

A true Oceanside gem. Located just right between Orange County and San Diego to serve those who love living in North County San Diego or South Orange County.
The best thing about this museum is its hometown feel and its dedication to the community, from the wonderful staff that greets and tirelessly spends time with every patron to the promotion of local artists to the education of kids about the arts and their impact. The museum is also a key part of the revitalization of downtown Oceanside. The «Art After Dark» events regularly draw crowds of 600+ on a Friday night. I’ve never been to a museum with so much fun.
One review cannot adequately convey the many great things about this museum, but what is most striking to me is the dedication of this museum to serving the San Diego and Orange County communities. You only have to stop by to see how true this is.

It’s ok. Bitchy staff, dreadful layout, but I’m glad it’s in existence. North County needs something… it’s sad it sucks so much.

This is a really cool little museum in Oceanside. They were displaying an exhibit on underwater photography and I was treated to some wonderful photos. The museum is a bit small, but still very charming and cozy. Take a break from the beach and check out their exhibits!

I came here on a Tues during Museum Month for half price ($ 4). There is free parking in the garage across the street next to the Civic Center. There were 3 exhibits on display and it took me less than an hour to make it through them all, reading all the plaques and looking at all the displays.
I started with the Quilt Visions. This seems to be a very popular exhibit, especially with older ladies. It was the busiest room. Some of the designs on the quilts were pretty interesting.
There was another exhibit on the main floor with black and white botanical photography of Imogen Cunningham. Upstairs were photographs by Carolyn Guild. She is very Ansel Adams like, but takes scenic photos more close up. I really enjoyed her photos.
Overall, I enjoyed visiting this art museum. I’m planning on visiting others in SD County, so I’ll see how they compare. It’s a nice little gallery to spend an hour or so. I’d definitely go back.

I LOVE the Oceanside Museum of Art. It is just the right size to take in the exhibits at a comfortable pace, take a look at something you have never seen before, appreciate local artists or community connected thems, and feel refreshed when your visit is over. I am so glad that I found it and so glad that it is now a part of my life!

We are very happy to have the Oceanside Museum of Art in our neighborhood. There is always something interesting to see.
The other day I enjoyed Imogen Cunninghams botanical photography and I loved Dr. Steampunks Art Extravaganza a couple of months ago.
My only regret is that I didn’t carve out some time in my day to get there sooner. Thanks to all for their hard work in making this beautiful museum part of our community.

FREE for military and students. Discounts for seniors… thats the goods. Admission is pretty cheap anyway at 8 bucks.
I’m not bashing California impressionism, but I wasn’t really impressed with the current exhibits on hand. Nothing called to me on this particular visit. They had 4 exhibits and my total time there was about 17 minutes… maybe less than that, so you can tell by the quality of stuff they had.
Note: This was my experience… and it may be better for you :)
«Quilt Visions 2010, No Boundaries» — Basically a bunch of quilts on display. They either had the heat on or turned off the air conditioning, but I felt like taking a nap on one of their quilts… which is a good thing I guess. This exhibit is located on the first floor right next to the admission desk… and there was too much chit chat amongst the employees for me to get fully immersed into this exhibit. Even if they weren’t giggling or laughing, I still probably would not have enjoyed it as much.
«Defying Expectations» — Contemporary Native American Art from the San Diego Region. I didnt see much here, a couple of talking and singing rocks or something. Kinda fooled me for a minute or so… but I was like. hey…rocks don’t talk… only bushes. Yes bushes sing, just see the Three Amigos. Again, limited in art and sculptures.
«Looking Back /​Moving Forward» — Contemporary Mexican American Art. I have nothing to report here.
«Focus on Oceanside» — This one actually had some depth. A lot of pictures and photos on random people all over the Oceanside area. The pictures show people in their natural state of being… not bad.
Finally an interactive piece called «Liquid» Basically just walking through a bunch of fishing lines to simulate rain or water or something. It just gets tangled all over your clothing.
I was expecting a little more art and pictures, but you just have to accept what they have available. Maybe in a few months or so when some new exhibits come in, I might check it out… IF AND ONLY IF I’m already in the Ocenside area AND I’ve had a beer or two to give me the liquid courage to come back here. But hey… it’s free for military, students!!! Score!!!

As a fan of California impressionism, I was pleased to discover a great exhibit at the Oceanside Museum of Art. It was my first visit and well worth the 45 minute drive from Orange County. This small museum is professional on every level. My docent tour of California Watercolor Artists Painting World War II was entertaining and extremely informative. I spent two hours exploring paintings by Sheets, Zornes, Paradise, and Brandt to name a few. The paintings were thoughtfully arranged with good lighting and helpful exhibit cards posted at each piece of art. The contemporary building is two levels and housed five varied exhibits. I enjoyed them all. There is easy street parking for two hours and a public lot close by if you wish to stay longer. It is also easy to access by train.

Being an eternal student of the arts, I have visited the Oceanside Museum of Art on several occasions now and I have to say that it keeps getting better and better! You would NEVER think this contemporary glass and concrete museum would be nestled in Oceanside just off I-​5 and it offers quite an impressive rotating collection specializing in Southern California art… and I mean EVERYTHING from showcasing regional tattoo artistry… conceptual installation art… fine art photography… creature designs from Avatar/​Star Trek… to impressionist visions of the SoCal landscape… the exhibits change out every few months, keeping it fresh and memorable… LOVE WHAT YOU’RE DOING OMA! =)

Upon my arrival in Oceanside, I was pleasantly surprised by this museum. I was not expecting such a high-​class museum in such a sleepy little beach town.
We stopped by on a lark one afternoon when we were cruising around downtown. They had a great pop art exhibit and the other, larger, gallery featured local San Diego artists. We were stunned to realize that we had just missed the previous exhibit which focused on the art of tattoo!
Looking at their exhibition calendar it was obvious this is a place was worthy of our support. The next exhibits featured a San Diego lowbrow art exhibit and an exhibit of art quilts. Really, you don’t even get such great exhibits at some of the larger museums.
We became members on our second trip there. Haven’t had the chance to check out any special events yet, but I’m sure we will soon.
If you haven’t seen this place yet, make the trip to O’side and check it out. Go ahead and pay the price to become a member — it will definitely be worth it. And, for the love, check out the lowbrow art exhibit NOW. You will see history in the making.

had some time to kill before heading to the airport. spent some time here.
Our opinion: pricey $ 5 each to view surfing photos and nostaligia from the 1970’s. More of a gallery than museum for this event. Also, slide show wasn’t well documented. Great photos though. GIft shop was below average, didn’t have the featured photogs book. Bathrooms very clean.
Came back to re-​review, my Mom was inspired by the photos, is looking to put a Wave/​Surf image on her wall, that’s worth a star.