Saturday, Jan. 25, many southern California museums opened their doors to the public free of charge, offering cash-strapped students a creative and free weekend option.
For the past nine years, Southern California museums have participated in the “Museums Free-For-All” program in an effort to offer the public a chance to immerse in the arts without cost.
Twenty museums participated in the program this year, including the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), the California Science Center and the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA).
Although many museums still required payment for parking, many were accessible by public transportation options such as the metro and buses, which not only cut back on the cost of the trip but helped visitors be eco-friendly.
“I really enjoy art, and I think that this is a good opportunity for people who can’t afford to go to museums all the time,” said sophomore film major Victoria Rosales, who planned to go to LACMA that day. “I think that art should be for everyone, not just for people who can afford it.”
This program is an opportunity for families who don’t get the chance to experience the arts and sciences regularly. Museum officials say it opens doors for children to learn more about art and even how the human body works.
Dr. Holland Prior, history and political science professor, shared her plans to visit MOCA and encouraged her students to check out one of the many museums offering free admission.
If you missed this chance to check out some of the museums, don’t fret. Many museums offer free days once a month or every two weeks. Be sure to check their websites for deals and updates.