The Oceanside Museum of Art (OMA) is centrally located in downtown Oceanside within walking distance of the Oceanside Transit Center, the Oceanside Pier, ample free parking, and a variety of delicious eateries.
OMA began providing exhibitions and public programs in 1995. With the support of the Oceanside City Council and city staff, the lease for the renowned Irving Gill Building, the historic site of the Oceanside City Hall, was approved and a home for the museum was established. Following a renovation to the interior of the Gill Building, OMA formally opened its doors on October 6, 1997, with a grand opening and OMA dedication.
In 2008, OMA completed a contemporary, three-level 15,000 square foot expansion, designed by noted architect Fredrick Fisher. The new building was melded seamlessly with the original 5,000 square-foot Irving Gill modernist building from the 1930s.
Today, in addition to more than 15 highly-praised contemporary and modern art exhibitions per year, museum programming includes concerts, films, interactive art experiences, culinary events, fundraising parties, art classes and lectures, evening events, docent tours, and chartered travel to other local, national, and international cultural art venues and destinations. With a mission to celebrate art through engagement, education, and innovation, OMA engages visitors and members of all ages, interests, occupations, and cultural backgrounds.
The museum offers several spaces for private events. The classic Irving Gill-designed building represents the flavor of Southern California in the 1930’s, and the stunning Central Pavilion completed in 2007, designed by Modernist architect Frederick Fisher, boasts spectacular views and includes two adjoining galleries. The first floor lobby featuring four sliding glass doors seamlessly connect your event to the Central Pavilion, Biogen- Idec Terrace, and arched Irving Gill memorial arcade. These elegant spaces together are ideal for dinner, dancing, and banquets. The second-floor Groves Gallery Auditorium offers a variety of options and is a unique setting for any event. For information on booking your wedding, special event or meeting, please contact Tanya Chahal at tanya@oma-online.org.
Let the local destination experts at Visit Oceanside help you save time and money by providing complimentary assistance with your group accommodations, activities for all ages, and finding a venue for your special event. Click here to request more information.