In celebration of Día de los Muertos, MVC invites you and your family to pick-up a Dia de los Muertos Craft Kit at the Ventura Museum and at the Agriculture Museum in Santa Paula. The MVC and AG Dia de los Muertos Craft Kits include: “Let’s Learn about Dia de los Muertos”, Mini Skull Book, CalaveraNecklace/Decoration Craft, Ofrenda Word Search, A Letter to the Dead, Dia de los Muertos Coloring Sheets, and Calavera Stickers.
The Museum of Ventura County presents the First Annual Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration on Saturday, October 3rd from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Sponsored by Southern California Gas Company (SoCalGas), the event will take place at the Museum with light refreshments, live performances by the Youth Mariachi Band from Inlakech Cultural Center, and booths staffed by Ventura Unified School District and the Girl Scouts. Rounding out the celebratory event will be a variety of cultural family-friendly activities.
“We are excited to highlight Hispanic Heritage Month through different art forms and experiences,” commented
The Museum of Ventura County in collaboration with artist Paul Lindhard of Art City Studios debuts museum’s new Santa Clara Street Garden Installation, Echoes of a Recent Past.
First Annual
Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration
Presented by SoCalGas
at the Museum of Ventura County
October 3
The Plaza, Courtyard, Children’s Garden, and Sculpture Garden at the Museum will be free and open to the public, registration is not required. Enjoy live music, drinks, cultural activities, and booths with our other community partners, including the Girl Scouts! Partake in and discover Latino traditions with activities for the whole family.
In person, on the web, and live broadcast
Your Museum in Ventura, in Santa Paula, and in your home
The Museum of Ventura County is pleased to announce and unveil its newest acquisition, John Nava’s Big Platter. A gift of Laura and William Peck, the 27-foot-long tapestry spans the north wall inside the Martha K. and Martin V. Pavilion, where numerous events, pop-up exhibits, and activities occur year-round. Big Platter will remain in the Pavilion as a permanent display.
In person, on the web, and live broadcast
Your Museum in Ventura, in Santa Paula, and in your home
The Museum of Ventura County and the Agriculture Museum in Santa Paula are now officially open! Both museums are open Thursday—Sunday from 11am to 5pm.
Admission to both Museums is FREE through the end of the year.
Take a sneak peek at our current exhibits below!
If you joined us for Local History Happy Hour with Frank Barajas, thank you. Dr. Barajas spoke about his book Mexican Americans with Moxie: A Transgenerational History of El Movimiento Chicano in Ventura County, California, 1945-1975. During this lively conversation with the Barbara Barnard Executive Director Elena Brokaw, he shared personal stories, deep insights into the cross-cultural dynamics of the region, and answered questions from the audience.
If you missed Local History Happy Hour with Frank Barajas, the video is now available to view and share on the MVC YouTube Channel!
Local History
Happy Hour
with Alicia Doyle
July 27 @ 5-6pm
Join us on Zoom (or in-person,
for MVC members only!) for
the next installment featuring Alicia Doyle, author of Fighting Chance.
Admission is free with registration.
RSVP on Facebook for special updates!
fter 15 months of closure, and as California’s Covid-19 restrictions are being lifted, The Museum of Ventura County is re-opening both its Ventura location at 100 East Main Street and the Agriculture Museum in Santa Paula at 926 Railroad Avenue on July 1, 2021. Admission to the museums and parking are free for visitors for the remainder of 2021.
Beginning Thursday, July 1st, visiting hours for The Museum of Ventura County and the Agriculture Museum in Santa Paula will be Thursday through Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The Research Library located on the Ventura campus will operate by appointment only, Wednesday through Friday from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
We’re thrilled to welcome you back indoors at the Museum of Ventura County and the Agriculture Museum in Santa Paula starting Friday, July 1, 2021! Both museums will be open Thursday—Sunday from 11am to 5pm.
Admission to both museums is FREE through the end of the year.
Take a sneak peek at all the upcoming exhibits below!
Join us this summer for Mindfulness at the Museum, new weekly free wellness classes outside in the gardens at the Museum of Ventura County and the Agriculture Museum in Santa Paula.
You can participate at the Museum of Ventura County (100 E. Main St., Ventura) on Thursdays from 4—5pm and at the Agriculture Museum (926 Railroad Ave., Santa Paula) on Saturdays from 10—11am in Santa Paula.
These classes provide fun and free activities for individuals and families. Beginners are encouraged to participate. All classes are free! Classes are limited and registration is required. MVC members get priority access.
Join us in the Boroughs Children’s Garden at the Museum of Ventura County on Saturday, June 19th from 11am—2pm to celebrate local artist MB Hanrahan’s new Chumash Village mural. Admission is free!
We are excited to announce that beginning Thursday, June 3, 2021, the museum’s gardens and outdoor areas at both the Museum of Ventura (100 E. Main St., Ventura) and the Agriculture Museum (926 Railroad Ave., Santa Paula) will be open to the public! Both museums will operate Thursdays thru Sundays from 11am—5pm.
We invite you to come visit the refreshed and improved gardens, participate in family activities, and see the new art installations.
PLUS: Admission will be FREE to everyone, throughout 2021!
Join us this summer for Mindfulness at the Museum, new weekly free wellness classes outside in the gardens at the Museum of Ventura County and the Agriculture Museum in Santa Paula.
You can participate at the Museum of Ventura County (100 E. Main St., Ventura) on Thursdays from 4—5pm and at the Agriculture Museum (926 Railroad Ave., Santa Paula) on Saturdays from 10—11am in Santa Paula.
These classes provide fun and free activities for individuals and families. Beginners are encouraged to participate. All classes are free! Classes are limited and registration is required. MVC members get priority access.
We are excited to announce that beginning Thursday, June 3, 2021, the museum’s gardens and outdoor areas at both the Museum of Ventura (100 E. Main St., Ventura) and the Agriculture Museum (926 Railroad Ave., Santa Paula) will be open to the public! Both museums will operate Thursdays thru Sundays from 11am—5pm.
We invite you to come visit the refreshed and improved gardens, participate in family activities, and see the new art installations.
PLUS: Admission will be FREE to everyone, throughout 2021!
oin us for the next installment in our new Zoom series, Local History Happy Hour with Jeffrey Maulhardt, author of “A History of Oxnard,” on Tuesday, May 18, 2021 from 5—6PM. In this series, local authors and historians sit down with The Barbara Barnard Smith Executive Director Elena Brokaw to discuss their unique perspectives on our region’s history, and take questions from the audience.
This online program is free, but requires advanced registration.
Join us at the Agriculture Museum (926 Railroad Ave., Santa Paula) this Saturday, May 1st @ 10am and at the Museum of Ventura County (100 E. Main St., Ventura) this Sunday, May 2nd @ 10am for our next Grab & Go Bag giveaway!
Discover creative ways to help protect our planet by using the 3Rs: Reducing, Reusing, and Recycling. Each fun-filled bag contains Small Footprints: Mateo Learns About the 3Rs storybook, Small Footprints: Activity and Coloring booklet, Paper Populous Garbage Truck Favor Box Craft, Food Forward’s Get Crafty with Your Food Waste Recipes, Play-Well TEKnologies wrist band, Compost Circle of Life, Composting at Home!, and so much more.
The Museum of Ventura County is pleased to present the next installment in its series of conversations with Changemakers.
You are invited to join us on Thursday, April 29, 2021 from 6:30—7:30PM for Changemakers: Local Heroes Combatting Climate Change. Admission is free with registration.
Panelists include Dr. Chris Funk, Director of the Climate Hazard Center at UCSB and author of Drought, Flood, Fire: How Climate Change Contributes to Recent Catastrophes, Hans Cole, Director of Environmental Campaigns and Advocacy at Patagonia, Florencia Ramirez, Ventura County Climate Emergency Council and author of Eat Less Water, and Michelle Stevens, Founder of the Refill Shoppe, public artist and environmental activist. This is not to be missed!
As more businesses are allowed to open in California and Ventura County, the Museum of Ventura County plans to open gradually as we continue to offer current online services and launch new programs like our Journal Flashback and Local History Happy Hour series, which you can read more about in this newsletter.
When we do re-open, you will get to see improved gardens and galleries along with new exhibits, public art installations, and family programs at both sites.
And in recognition of your support over the last year, we are excited to announce that admission at all sites will be FREE for all of 2021!
Join us for The Changing Faces of Ventura County: Women Taking the Lead, a special Museum of Ventura County Zoom program on Wednesday, March 31st from 6:30-8:00 PM. This online program is free, but requires advanced registration.
In honor of National Women’s History month, the Museum of Ventura County will host a panel discussion with elected leaders from all 10 cities in Ventura County. At no other time in history have so many women held elected office in Ventura County. Currently, in 2021, the County has 23 women elected to serve as supervisors, mayors, and council members.
After a four-month hiatus, Season 2 of “MVC Insider” resumed this past Friday, February 26, 2021. The Smith-Hobson Family Collections Manager Renee Tallent took us back a full century to talk about the 1920s hairstyle technique “Marcelling.” Renee explored the different variations of curling irons available on the market sold to achieve the perfect natural wave.
Mark your calendars for Friday, March 12, 2021 at 10am? and tune-in on Facebook Live for another episode of “MVC Insider” with Chief Curator of Exhibits & Collections Anna Bermudez! Anna will take viewers through the exhibit Hulega! Photographs from the Frontlines at the Agriculture Museum in Santa Paula. Set a reminder on Facebook or YouTube.
you like dirt, old things, and history…then you’re going to “dig” our two-part educational series on archaeology. In this first installment, you will learn about what archaeology is, why it is important, and what you can do to help preserve the past. At the end of the module, you will also find some fun activities to get you thinking like an archaeologist! Sound fun? Well, then let’s “dig” in!
You’re invited to join us on Zoom on Thursday, February 25, 2021 @ 6:30pm—7:30pm for the next installment of Ivor Davis: Up Close & Personal with “multi-talented Renaissance woman” Miriam Arichea.
Arichea will share the amazing story of how she has juggled all her careers: appeals court lawyer, concert pianist with symphony orchestras including CHICO (Channel Islands Chamber Orchestra) and the director of Rubicon Theatre Harmonix children’s choir. She also found time to become a credentialed teacher at Ventura High School, where she leads the mock trial and academic decathlon teams.
Will you please help us by sharing your thoughts about how the Museum of Ventura County, and museums broadly, can better support and engage you in 2021? Please take our survey today.?
You’re invited to join us on Zoom on Thursday, January 21, 2021 @ 6:30pm—7:30pm for Ivor Davis: Up Close & Personal with Chris Hillman. Among the topics of conversation, Mr. Davis will interview Chris Hillman about his recent memoir, “Time Between: My Life as a Byrd, Burrito Brother, and Beyond,” his time living in Ventura County, his rock ‘n roll roots, and much more. This is not to be missed!
Happy New Year, Ventura County! After the wildly successful, members-only Zoom series Behind the Scenes with Ivor Davis wrapped up this past fall, the Museum of Ventura County is thrilled to present Ivor Davis: Up Close and Personal, a new Zoom series featuring a rotating guest list of notable and celebrated Ventura County residents, including Chris Hillman, Malcom McDowell, Miriam Arichea, and more. This new series is free and open to the public with registration.
Join us on Zoom on Thursday, January 21st, 2021 @ 6:30pm—7:30pm for the first in this series with musician Chris Hillman!
We’re thrilled to announce the next installment of Ivor Davis: Up Close & Personal with legendary actor and raconteur extraordinaire Malcolm McDowell.
Join us on Zoom on Thursday, February 4, 2021 @ 6:30pm—7:30pm for what is sure to be a compelling conversation.
Ivor Davis: Up Close and Personal, a new Zoom series featuring a rotating guest list of notable and celebrated Ventura County residents, including Chris Hillman, Malcom McDowell, Miriam Arichea, and more. This new series is free and open to the public with registration.
Join us for the first installment in our new Zoom series, Local History Happy Hour with Roz McGrath on Tuesday, April 20, 2021 from 5—6PM. In this series, local authors and historians will sit down with The Barbara Barnard Smith Executive Director Elena Brokaw to discuss their unique perspectives on our region’s history, and take questions from the audience.
This online program is free, but requires advanced registration.
Join us on Tuesday, July 13, 2021 from 5—6PM for Local History Happy Hour with Frank Barajas on Zoom. This Zoom event is free!
We are excited to present our newest exhibit; Arte Para la Gente: The Collected Works of Margaret Garcia at the Museum of Ventura County!
The Museum of Ventura County has been partnering with the county library to bring in-person Story Time on the 2nd Saturday of each month at 11:30am, this will be the last one of the year! On the 11th of December, in time for Christmas, we’ll feature a story about Family. Join us for stories, then play & learn in the Children’s Garden, a fabulous and FREE outing for ALL!
historic downtown Santa Paula with Rev. Maddie Sifantus, who will begin with a convocation. The procession will be led by Javier Gómez and Lorenzo Lencho Moraza with traditional Las Posadas music provided by Inlakech Cultural Arts Center and De Colores Music youth groups. Mayor Rev. Jenny Crosswhite of First Christian Church, Elvia Hernandez of Esperanza/Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, and Pastor Lupita Alonso of El Buen Pastor Church will participate.
We are asking for your support. Whatever you can give at this time will ensure that this regional history and art institution will be able to continue to fulfill its ongoing mission of preserving and protecting our history.
As we move through these uncertain times, keeping our community connected is more important than ever.
If you can, please give generously and consider becoming a monthly donor today, so we can build the best tomorrow – together.
We wouldn’t put it past 2020 to give the central coast a snowstorm. Several Museum staff members have “Snow on the Beach” on their 2020 bingo cards. If you think that’s unlikely, you might be surprised to know that Ventura County’s coastal areas have seen snow several times in recent history.
The winter of 1948-1949 was a cold one and by January 8, 1949 the County suffered over $1 million in crop losses. There was a cold snap the first week of January that split the bark of citrus trees in Wheeler Canyon.
Dear Community Member,
You are invited to explore the new MVC Gallery Marketplace! The MVC Gallery Marketplace has been created to help regional artists sell their works. The Museum’s Fine Arts Committee and Cultural Team has selected notable artists working in many media, who represent some of the finest work in our county.
(We have partnered with the UPS Store at 35 W Main Street in Ventura for easy and secure shipping.)
Dear MVC supporter,
A gift to the Museum of Ventura County serves your community by helping us…
…Make history accessible. The Research Library has digitized and made available 2,500 photographs and responded to over 150 remote research inquiries.
…Provide virtual education lessons and field trips to students, teachers, and parents. These programs help kids with remote learning and are designed to meet the specific needs of low to moderate income students.
…Present important free livestream programs and online content that changes daily. These included the first installment of our Changemaker series with Dolores Huerta and Jorge Corralejo, interviews with renowned journalist Ivor Davis, and a Dia de los Muertos altar workshop with Dr. Roberto Vargas.
A very Happy Thanksgiving to all from the Museum of Ventura County! While most of us are settling in at home to celebrate a much quieter holiday than in past years, most will still put a roasted turkey on the table. To residents of the Santa Clara River Valley, a Deeter turkey was always part of the celebration in times past.
The Deeters left Oklahoma and settled in Fillmore in 1938 and opened the Deeter Turkey Ranch that same year. Son, Calvin Deeter, took over the ranch in the 1950’s.
Dear Community Member,
For the health and safety of the community, all Museum programs have been moved online. The Museum of Ventura County, the Agriculture Museum in Santa Paula, the Research Library & Archives, and the Albinger Archaeology Museum will be closed until further notice.
We will continue to offer a variety of diverse online programming, including Virtual Learning Modules, Zoom Conversations, family activities, and more! You are encouraged to explore below or visit our website.
Be safe, be well, and stay healthy. We look forward to welcoming you back at MVC when we reopen!
This week, we bring you a special appeal from Ventura County leaders: Please get tested for Covid-19 at one of the free testing sites throughout the County. As the virus worsens across the country, the metrics that will take Ventura County from the red to the purple tier (which is the most restrictive) are on the rise. One way to help stem the spread of the virus and keep our numbers down is to get tested. Please watch the video below that walks you through the testing process. And please, stay safe!
You can subscribe for COVID-19 updates from the County here.
The Museum of Ventura County and the Agriculture Museum in Santa Paula are reopening to members only beginning on Saturday, October 31! We have a new reservations and ticketing system in place to regulate the amount of traffic in the galleries, as well as limited operational days and hours.
Members, please click here to make your reservations.
We have extended our exhibits through the end of the year. Please read on to learn about what exciting things you’re about to see in our galleries as you return to the museum.
Thank you for your ongoing support of the Museum of Ventura County, and thank you for all that you do during these unprecedented times. We appreciate you, and we can’t wait to see you at MVC.
Dear Community,
The Museum of Ventura County and the Agriculture Museum in Santa Paula are reopening to members only beginning on Saturday, October 31! We have a new reservations and ticketing system in place to regulate the amount of traffic in the galleries, as well as limited operational days and hours.
Members, please click here to make your reservations.
We have extended our exhibits through the end of the year. Please read on to learn about what exciting things you’re about to see in our galleries as you return to the museum.
Thank you for your ongoing support of the Museum of Ventura County, and thank you for all that you do during these unprecedented times. We appreciate you, and we can’t wait to see you at MVC.
*Please read our visiting guidelines at the end of this email.
In celebration of Días de los Muertos, the Museum of Ventura County invites you and your family to pick-up a Grab ‘n Go Day of the Dead Craft Bag at the Ventura Museum (100 E. Main St., Ventura) on Saturday, October 17, 2020 @ 10AM (while supplies last) and at the Agriculture Museum in Santa Paula (926 Railroad Ave.) on Sunday, October 18, 2020 @ 12PM (while supplies last).
The MVC and AG Grab ‘n Go Day of the Dead Craft Bags include:
• Día de los Muertos mask-making kit
• Instructions on how to build your own at home altar (English and Spanish)
• Materials and instructions on creating Papel Picado
• Materials and instruction on creating tissue paper marigolds
• Recipe for baking Pan de Muerto
Drive-ups only, please. You will be met curbside by our friendly staff members. Gloves, masks and social distancing practices will be in place.
The Days of the Dead season is here, and it’s time to honor the lives of our dearest departed and send them love. The Museum of Ventura County invites you to join us for a A Zoom Workshop: Creating Family Altars with Dr. Roberto Vargas on Wednesday, October 14, 2020 from 6:30PM—7:45PM. In this free, family-friendly Zoom experience, Dr. Vargas will teach viewers how to celebrate Días de los Muertos by remembering their loved ones and creating a Family Altar, or ofrenda.
The Days of the Dead season is here! It’s time to honor the lives of our dearest departed and send them love. You are invited to join us for a Zoom Workshop: Creating Family Altars with Dr. Roberto Vargas on Wednesday, October 14, 2020 from 6:30PM—7:45PM. In this free, family-friendly Zoom experience, Dr. Vargas will teach viewers how to celebrate Días de los Muertos by remembering their loved ones and creating a Family Altar, or ofrenda.
Additionally, viewers will learn the meaning of Días de los Muertos as a tradition to honor family and departed loved ones, and Dr. Roberto Vargas will review how to facilitate a simple Dias de los Muertos celebration in the home. This is a great opportunity to bring the household together for an evening of interactive learning and fun.
The Museum of Ventura County is pleased to present the first installment in its series of conversations with Changemakers: Dolores Huerta, Founder & President of the Dolores Huerta Foundation, civil rights activist and community organizer, will join longtime activist and civic leader Jorge Corralejo, documentary film producer and farmworker activist David Damian Figueroa, and Chief Curator Anna Bermudez for a Zoom Conversation onMonday, September 21, 2020 @ 6:30—7:30PM.
Admission to Changemaker Series: A Zoom Conversation with Dolores Huerta, Jorge Corralejo, David Damian Figueroa, and Anna Bermudez is free with registration.
RSVPs must be received before Monday, September 21, 2020 8AM.
Open now through November 30, 2020, the Museum of Ventura County and the Ventura Botanical Gardens are thrilled to host 14 regional artists in their first collaboration, Arte Forastero. Sculptures and installation works have been installed in the Botanical Gardens nursery and lower trails and in the Museum’s outdoor Plaza along Main Street in Downtown Ventura.
Join us online on National Women’s Equality Day,
Wednesday, August 26, 2020 from 4—6 PM
as we commemorate the centennial of the 19th Amendment, and honor the sacrifices of the courageous Suffragists, with a family-friendly free virtual event that will feature performances, and presentations about voting, advocacy, and equality. The Museum of Ventura County will be providing a virtual tour of its newly curated exhibit “Amendment 19: Votes for Women.”
The Museum partnered with Ventura College photography professors Brian Paumier and Jessie Groves for a new take on the exquisite corpse concept. Students were asked to use the Museum’s online photograph archive to find inspiration for a final project.
Presented are the original photograph screenshots the students selected and the images they created based on those selections.
Welcome to the finale episode of Season 1 “MVC Insider.”
Chief Curator Anna Bermudez, is joined by Government Archivist Amber de la Cruz as they discuss black voices in Ventura County’s past and present.
Welcome to episode 5 of “MVC Insider.” In this episode,
Elena Waller, Agriculture Museum Manager,
discusses the history of tilling in Ventura County and showcases a number of tools that eventually led to the invention of the tractor!
Wednesday, July 1ST
11:00AM – 12:00PM
I’ll be discussing what we have done so far in response to the health crisis, what our current status is, and what our plans are for re-opening. I’d also like to take this opportunity to discuss with you how the Museum of Ventura County can best continue to meet current and future community needs, particularly in light of the global civil unrest and its regional manifestations and impacts.
?
Elena Brokaw
The Barbara Barnard Smith Executive Director
PLANS FOR RE-OPENING
While all sites are still closed to the public, MVC is preparing to re-open with limited, members-only hours, in mid-July, expanding to the general public in August.
Thank you to all of you who completed our online survey. Your responses are critical in developing our re-opening plans. Our first priority upon re-opening will be the safety of guests and staff. We will have more information about what to expect when you visit the museum in the next e-blast.
COVID-19…. Nearly every aspect of our daily lives is impacted. None of us is immune. We are living through unprecedented, historic times.
How will we remember the details of this life-altering experience? What will future residents learn about how Ventura County reacted to the crisis? Who will tell our grandkids the stories of our experience? The answer to those questions and the key to the historical records will be in the archives and the collection of the Museum of Ventura County. Such is the case with all of our county’s history.
The Museum is very pleased to be able to share with you one of our newest programs – MVC Insider (see below). This series of weekly videos will offer viewers a unique, in-depth glimpse behind the scenes at the Museum.
This week, The Smith-Hobson Family Collections Manager Renee Tallent takes us into the Object Collections Department to learn about mining in Ventura County. Renee comes to MVC from the Galveston Historical Foundation in Galveston, Texas where she served as Collections Manager, managing the art and artifacts for over five historic sites and museums.
The Museum of Ventura County is temporarily closed due to COVID-19 and is looking forward to reopening as soon as it is safe to do so.
We have put together a short survey to help us better understand how we can best serve you and the community during this time and when we reopen.
There are over 5,500 maps in the Library collection that include historical plat maps, boundary maps, topographic and hydrological maps (USGS), irrigation/ditch maps, right-of way maps (railroad and highway), and land case maps (court case exhibits). Discover a few of these jewels in this week’s virtual exhibit.
This week it’s my pleasure to introduce Eric Knight, MVC’s Development Director. Eric is a fairly new member of the MVC family, having joined the staff team in July of 2019. Before he threw his heart and soul into the museum world, Eric most recently worked at the American Cancer Society where he was in charge of new business support. Eric heads up the fundraising and public relations teams at the Museum. He is a natural fit for MVC – he is creative, curious, and entirely devoted to making his adopted community – the county of Ventura – a better place. He is also just about to be a first time father!
This week we bring you the story of Ellie Langille and a new attraction that has opened in a midtown Ventura neighborhood: the Lemon Grove Neighborhood Zoo.
This zoo was spurred on by Ellie’s mom Summer Langille, who connected with their neighbors on Facebook and asked them to create a weekend pop-up zoo of stuffed animals.
Over the weekend, fifteen houses transformed into cuddly wild animal parks.
This is just one of many stories that demonstrates the creativity and resilience of our residents at this time.
A MESSAGE TO THE MVC COMMUNITY This week, we’d like to introduce MVC’s Research Library and Archives Director, Deya Terrafranca. Deya came to the museum in late 2016 and has been the library director since November of 2018. I am…
Greetings from 16 MVC team members, from 16 different home offices!
Last week, after 10 days of working from home, we on the Museum staff team realized that we actually like each other quite a bit, so we got together for an hour of idea sharing and recharging. Here we all are, in our “working from home” best.
From The Barbara Barnard Smith Executive Director of the Museum of Ventura County View this week’s video message from the Museum of Ventura County’s Barbara Barnard Smith Executive Director Elena Brokaw and keep informed with all that the museum has…
From the Barbara Barnard Smith Executive Director of the Museum of Ventura County Dear friends of the Museum, We know that right now your attention and concern is almost entirely focused on COVID-19 and its impacts on your family, friends,…
Based on the Ventura County health emergency, the directives of the governor of California, and the importance we place on the health and safety of our community, the Museum of Ventura County, the Agriculture Museum in Santa Paula, the Research…
Special Museum Hours for New Exhibits Installation The Museum of Ventura County in Downtown Ventura will be closed to the public February 25—February 28, 2020. The Research Library and Archives will be open regular hours Wednesday through Friday 11AM—5PM. The…
Civil Rights Activist Dolores Huerta March 19, 2020 @ 6:30PM at the Museum of Ventura County! The Museum of Ventura County is honored to host Dolores Huerta on March 19, 2020 @ 6:30 PM for a talk about her years…
Will you please help us by sharing your thoughts about how the Museum of Ventura County, and museums broadly, engage you? Please take our survey today. Why this survey? We at the Museum of Ventura County care deeply about making…
Save the Nopal Artist David Damian Figueroa The Museum of Ventura County is committed to capturing, exhibiting and creating an opportunity for community dialogue around timely issues relating to regional and national trends in arts and culture. Last week, the…
Free First Sunday at the Ag: Scientific Arts & Crafts January 5, 2020 • 12—2PM What happens when you mix science with art? Join us at the Agriculture Museum in Santa Paula on Sunday, January 5, 2020 from 12—2PM for…
Call for Volunteers! January 24—26, 2020 We are excited for the recently announced Albinger Archaeological Museum’s 40th Anniversaryevent scheduled for Friday, January 24th — Sunday, January 26, 2020. Come celebrate our county’s history and become a part of our museum…
DONATE NOW Dear MVC Supporter, By making a gift to the Museum of Ventura County… YOU protect our history. Without our collections and archives, the history of Ventura County and the stories of local cultures are incomplete. YOU inspire vibrant…
Member Appreciation Day! Sunday, December 8, 2019 12pm—1:30pm Calling all members! Join us at the Museum of Ventura County at 100 E. Main St. in Ventura for Member Appreciation Day this Sunday, December 8, 2019 from 12—1:30pm! Members will receive…
Member Appreciation Day! Sunday, December 8, 2019 12pm—1:30pm Calling all members! Join us at the Museum of Ventura County at 100 E. Main St. in Ventura for Member Appreciation Day on December 8, 2019 from 12—1:30pm! Members will receive exclusive…
Woven Earth Opens Tuesday, November 12th at the Museum of Ventura County! Displaying a wide range of hand-woven baskets from the Museum’s extensive collection, Woven Earth focuses on California’s native communities and the traditions involved in making these baskets. Basket…
Día de los Muertos at the Museum of Ventura County! Join us for a special Día de los Muertos evening celebration at Museum of Ventura County on Friday, November 1, 2019 6—9 p.m. (in conjunction with First Friday) In collaboration…
Dr. Raymond Neutra at the Museum of Ventura County Dr. Raymond Neutra joins us at the Museum of Ventura County this Thursday, October 10, 2019 from 6:30—8 p.m. for a Lecture & Book Signing on his book, “Cheap and Thin:…
Kaleidoscope Kandeo by Deniz Nicole makes it’s post-Burning Man debut at the Museum of Ventura County on Saturday, September 28. This hands-on, interactive installation is on display for only 10 days—so come to the Museum and play! Deniz Nicole’s artistic sensibility…
Join us at the Museum of Ventura County for California Club on September 20, 2019 from 6 p.m.—9 p.m.! This special opening reception for the latest exhibit, California Cool, will take visitors on an exciting trip back to an era of Mid-century…
TASTE Presented by Ventura Chamber of Commerce returns to the Museum of Ventura County on August 29, 2019 from 5:30 p.m.—8:00 p.m. Members of the Museum can purchase tickets at the discounted price of $40! Purchase your tickets today by…
Grab a pair of “actual” reality goggles and join us at the Museum this Saturday, August 17th from 3 to 5 p.m. for the closing reception of Actual Reality! Artists Carlos Grasso and Peter Fox will be in attendance, and…
The Museum of Ventura County at 100 E. Main St. in Ventura will be closed August 19 — September 20, 2019 for renovation. This exciting transformation will be complete in time for the opening of California Cool, a new exhibit…
Join us at the Museum of Ventura County this Friday, July 26, 2019 at 6:30 p.m. for a book talk and signing with Ivor Davis. Admission is $5 for Museum members, $10 for nonmembers. Ivor Davis will be discussing his…
The latest edition of MVC Then is now available! Early Ventura County newspapers offered one of the few ways to connect pioneer communities with stories, opinions, and news of the day. The first newspapers in Ventura County were all closely…
Join us at the Museum of Ventura County on July 26, 2019 @ 6:30 p.m. for a Book Talk & Signing with Ivor Davis. Admission is $5 for Museum members, $10 for nonmembers. Ivor Davis will be discussing his latest…
MUNCH returns to the Museum of Ventura County this Thursday, June 20, 2019 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.! The Ventura Artist Union Jam Band will be performing and boxed lunches will be available for purchase from Desserts to Die…
Thank you to everyone who joined us for the Actual Reality opening reception this past Saturday. The turnout was fantastic! If you didn’t have the opportunity to see Carlos Grasso and Peter Fox’s exhibit, be sure to visit the Museum…
Join us at the Museum of Ventura County this Saturday, June 1, 2019 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. for the opening reception of Actual Reality. This new exhibit, created by local artists Carlos Grasso and Peter Fox, examines the…
CAMARILLO — Some CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) student researchers are going to spend their summer bringing Ventura County’s historical archives into the 21st century. A partnership forged between CSUCI and the Museum of Ventura County (MVC) means that three student…
On January 24, 2019, the Museum of Ventura County hosted An Evening of Song & Stories with Chris Hillman in support of the exhibit “Chris Hillman: Time Between”. The event sold out in advance, and attendees were treated to over…
Join us at the Museum of Ventura County this Friday, May 3, 2019 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. and be among the first to view the new exhibit, “Women Beyond Borders.” This extraordinary exhibition displays boxes created by women…
Join us at the Agriculture Museum in historic downtown Santa Paula for Member Appreciation Day! Saturday, June 22 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Bring the entire family or a friend for a morning of fun, education, and exploration. You’ll enjoy……
Join us at the Museum of Ventura County on Friday, May 3, 2019 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. and be among the first to view the new exhibit, “Women Beyond Borders.” This extraordinary exhibition displays boxes created by women…
TOMORROW! Please join the Museum of Ventura County’s Latino Advisory Committee for an after work mixer on Thursday, April 11, 2019 from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Learn more about the Museum’s reinvention plan, the role of this important advisory…
The next issue of MVC Then is now available! Written by library volunteer Andy Ludlum, “African American Voices from Ventura County’s Past” include recorded interviews from the Research Library’s oral history collection that provide us a glimpse into the lives…
Major funding for these programs is made possible by the City of San Buenaventura, the County of Ventura and private and community donors. Featured Event Santa Paula’s Treasured Architecture Opening Reception March 16 @ 1 p.m. The Ag Museum in Santa Paula…
The Museum of Ventura County is honored to host the new exhibit Broken: A Holocaust History in Fused Glass, on display March 2 – April 27, 2019 at the Museum of Ventura County in the Community Gallery. “My parents’ stories…
Major funding for these programs is made possible by the City of San Buenaventura, the County of Ventura and private and community donors. The Research Library Archives at the Museum of Ventura County is thrilled to share MVCThen, a new blog charting…
Major funding for these programs is made possible by the City of San Buenaventura, the County of Ventura and private and community donors. There is plenty to see and experience at your Museum! This weekend marks the opening of Design in the…
Major funding for these programs is made possible by the City of San Buenaventura, the County of Ventura and private and community donors. Last Thursday, Chris Hillman was joined at the Museum by longtime collaborator and Desert Rose Band bandmate Herb Pederson…
Major funding for these programs is made possible by the City of San Buenaventura, the County of Ventura and private and community donors. As the government shutdown continues, the Museum is offering free admission to all affected government employees and their families at…
Dear Friend of the Museum, We are in the process of gathering information to shape the Museum’s priorities for the next five years. We would really appreciate your taking the time to envision the future with us. Please share your thoughts…
Major funding for these programs is made possible by the City of San Buenaventura, the County of Ventura and private and community donors. Happy New Year! There is plenty to be excited about to start the New Year at the Museum of…
VENTURA — The Museum of Ventura County and the American Institute of Architects Ventura County (AIAVC) present Design in the Making: Ventura County Architecture, a community architectural exhibit exploring the dynamic role of architects and designers in affecting positive change…
Major funding for these programs is made possible by the City of San Buenaventura, the County of Ventura and private and community donors. Seasons greetings from your friends at the Museum of Ventura County! This is a friendly reminder that during the…
Major funding for these programs is made possible by the City of San Buenaventura, the County of Ventura and private and community donors. Exhibit Sneak Peek! Click for a Sneak Peek Look at Wrapped With Care at The Ag Wrapped With Care,…
Major funding for these programs is made possible by the City of San Buenaventura, the County of Ventura and private and community donors. Upcoming Events 2019 Ventura Film Society 2.0 Launch Reception Dec. 7, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. The Ventura Film…
Major funding for these programs is made possible by the City of San Buenaventura, the County of Ventura and private and community donors. Upcoming Events Brooke Halpin on The Beatles Nov. 29, 6:30 to 8 pm. Museum will host renowned Beatles expert,…
The season of giving is here! GivingTuesday – November 27th, 2018 In the true spirit of the season, we invite you to join your Museum of Ventura County this GivingTuesday by giving back to your community. Right now you have…
This is a devastating time for our county. With a major natural disaster following on the heels of the tragedy at the Borderline within hours, many in the community are in shock, and left feeling stunned and helpless. The Museum…
Major funding for these programs is made possible by the City of San Buenaventura, the County of Ventura and private and community donors. Upcoming Events Mayor’s Arts Awards Nov. 8, 5:30 – 8:30 pm, the 2018 Mayor’s Arts Awards will be held…
Major funding for these programs is made possible by the City of San Buenaventura, the County of Ventura and private and community donors. Celebrate Dia de los Muertos at the Museum Chicano Art Catalog Release Nov. 1, 5:15 – 6 pm, The…
Major funding for these programs is made possible by the City of San Buenaventura, the County of Ventura and private and community donors. Upcoming Events Munch with Music by John Bardi Oct. 25, 11:30 am – 1:30 pm, grab lunch and head…
Major funding for these programs is made possible by the City of San Buenaventura, the County of Ventura and private and community donors. Bringing The Boys Home In honor of National AIDS Awareness month, the Museum of Ventura Countywill host a reception, October 19,…
Major funding for these programs is made possible by the City of San Buenaventura, the County of Ventura and private and community donors. Ghostwalk On the last 3 weekends of October, the historyof Santa Paula and the Santa Clara River Valley comes alive…
Major funding for these programs is made possible by the City of San Buenaventura, the County of Ventura and private and community donors. Lunch + Music = MUNCH Grab lunch and head over to the Museum, every Thursday between 11:30 a.m. and 1:30…
Artists will be on hand to sign newly-released Ayer y Todavia Art Catalog VENTURA — The Museum of Ventura County will host a catalog release event, 5:15 to 6 p.m., Nov. 1, at 100 E. Main St., Ventura. The Ayer…
VENTURA — The Museum of Ventura County will host a panel discussion, 2 to 4 p.m., Nov. 2, on the history, experiences and contributions of ARTLIFE founder and publisher Joe Cardella at the Museum’s Martin V. and Martha K. Smith…
VENTURA — “Haunted by History” author Craig Owens will share haunting facts about eight prominent historic hotels in Southern California and the origins behind many of their ghost stories, 6 p.m., Nov. 13, as the featured speaker for the “Speaking…
VENTURA — The California Native Plant Society Channel Islands will host a native plant sale at the Museum of Ventura County, 10 a.m. – 3 pm., Nov. 17. The CNPSCI is dedicated to conserving California native plants and their natural…
Click here for more information Major funding for these programs is made possible by the City of San Buenaventura, the County of Ventura and private and community donors. Lunch + Music = MUNCH Grab lunch and head over to the Museum, every Thursday between…
Click here for more information Major funding for these programs is made possible by the City of San Buenaventura, the County of Ventura and private and community donors. Lunch + Music = MUNCH Grab lunch and head over to the Museum, every Thursday…
Click here for more information Major funding for these programs is made possible by the City of San Buenaventura, the County of Ventura and private and community donors. 6-Week Portrait Drawing Course Registration Deadline Extended: September 13.The Museum of Ventura County announces its firstPortrait Drawing Course.…
VENTURA — In honor of National AIDS Awareness month, the Museum of Ventura County will host an exhibit, AIDS History and Queer Art, to raise awareness of both the disease’s history in Ventura County and the recent rise in new…
VENTURA — The Museum of Ventura County and the City of Ventura will host the 4th Annual ArtWalk Collectors Reception for the 2018 ArtWalk Ventura, 6 to 8 p.m., Oct. 4, in the Martin V. and Martha K. Smith Pavilion…
VENTURA — It’s a spooky First Friday event, 6–8 p.m., Oct. 5, at the Museum of Ventura County with music by DJ Darko, aka David Cervantes, refreshments by Desserts to Die For and the opening of The Night of the…
Major funding for these programs is made possible by the City of San Buenaventura, the County of Ventura and private and community donors. Opening Reception for At Table: The Business of Food and Community The Museum of Ventura County will host an opening reception,…
Click here for more information Major funding for these programs is made possible by the City of San Buenaventura, the County of Ventura and private and community donors. Call For Entries: The Kitchen Table – EXTENDED DEADLINE AUGUST 20 As part of its upcoming…
Click here for more information Major funding for these programs is made possible by the City of San Buenaventura, the County of Ventura, and private and community donors. David Mirisch Museum Talk Hollywood publicist David Mirisch will share stories about his five…
Click here for more information Major funding for these programs is made possible by the City of San Buenaventura, the County of Ventura and private and community donors. Summer Music Concert at the Ag Museum Escape the heat with the cool sounds…
VENTURA — The Museum of Ventura County will host a panel discussion on Restoring Main Street Vitality in the wake of the Thomas Fire, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Sept. 18, at the Museum located at 100 E. Main Street, Ventura.…
VENTURA — The Museum of Ventura County will host an opening reception from 2 – 4 p.m., Sept. 29, for the pop-up exhibit, Joe Cardella and ARTLIFE Magazine, celebrating the life of Ventura artist and publisher Joe Cardella. Joe Cardella…
Click here for more information Major funding for these programs is made possible by the City of San Buenaventura, the County of Ventura and private and community donors. Vaquero Campfires Opening Day at the AG Museum Join us at the Ag Museum in Santa…
Click here for more information Major funding for these programs is made possible by the City of San Buenaventura and the County of Ventura. Figure Drawing with Artist Ryan Carr Join the Museum’s Resident Artist Ryan Carr, 6 to 8 p.m., July…
Click here for more information Major funding for these programs is made possible by the City of San Buenaventura and the County of Ventura. The Louisiana Bayou comes to the Ag Museum The Agriculture Museum of Ventura County in Santa Paula kicks off its…
VENTURA — The Museum of Ventura County is presenting its latest exhibit, “Natural State,” through Aug. 12. The exhibit features the work of the Museum’s first artist-in-residence Ryan Carr. Using large scale paintings and drawings, the focus of Carr’s work is…
VENTURA — Join artist Ryan Carr, 6 to 8 p.m., Aug. 21, at Leashless Brewing, 585 E. Thompson Blvd, Ventura, for the Museum of Ventura County figure drawing group. This popular event meets twice-monthly to draw live, clothed models. Bring…
Click here for more information Major funding for these programs is made possible by the City of San Buenaventura and the County of Ventura. Lunch + Music = MUNCH Grab lunch and head over to the Museum, every Thursday between 11:30…
Speaking of Ventura County Presents: Sergio Aragonés: Art from the Inside Out Join us tomorrow June 12 at 1 p.m. at the Museum of Ventura County for an entertaining and insightful afternoon with award-winning comicartist Sergio Aragonés as speaker for this month’s Speaking of VenturaSeries. An…
Major funding for these programs is made possible by the City of San Buenaventura and the County of Ventura. The Night Bobby Died: An Eyewitness Account of the Assassination of Bobby Kennedy Join Ventura County writer-journalist Ivor Davis, Wednesday, June 6, at 6:30…
VENTURA — The Museum of Ventura County and the Downtown Ventura Lions Club are partnering to provide a beer and wine garden and resting spot for those attending the July 4 parade and street fair in Downtown Ventura from 11…
VENTURA — The talented musical quintet Jarabe Mexicano will be performing a special program geared towards youth and teens at the Museum of Ventura County, noon to 1 p.m., July 18, in the Museum’s plaza, 100 E. Main Street, Ventura.…
Major funding for these programs is made possible by the City of San Buenaventura and the County of Ventura. Ventura Artist John Robertson’s Paintings Provide Background to Wearable Art Fashion Show Correction: A previous email listed John Robertson’s name incorrectly. We are…
VENTURA — The Museum of Ventura County announces the recipients of the Bonita C. McFarland and Forum of the Arts 2018 scholarships. This year’s scholarships as recommended by the Museum’s Fine Arts Committee are awarded to: Kyle L. Cobian, who…
Major funding for these programs is made possible by the City of San Buenaventura and the County of Ventura. Exhibit Opening – Black and White and Read All Over The popular appeal of comic book art is the focus of Black and White and…
Major funding for these programs is made possible by the City of San Buenaventura and the County of Ventura. Kids Enjoy Music and Drawing at Museum’s Main Street Location Join us for Free First Sunday,May 6, at the Museum of Ventura County, 100 E.…
VENTURA — The Museum of Ventura County presents Pedal Pushers! Bicycling in Ventura County, a new exhibit that showcases the bicycle as an object of design as well as personal expression. Shown in conjunction with the Amgen Tour of California,…
Click here for more information Major funding for these programs is made possible by the City of San Buenaventura and the County of Ventura. Figure Drawing with artist Ryan Carr Join artist Ryan Carr from 6 to 8 p.m., May 1, for…
Major funding for these programs is made possible by the City of San Buenaventura and the County of Ventura. Final Two Days! In High Style: The Photography of Neal Barr Don’t miss the final two days for In High Style: The Photography of Neal…
