Current Exhibit

in Town Landmarks: Abstract Oakland by Jorge Bejarano, the artist explores some of Oakland’s most well known historic landmarks, presenting them through his own modern, vibrant lens. Artworks are paired alongside historic images of each building to offer visitors a chance to consider both the evolution and permanence of some of The Town’s most beloved buildings.

Using Franklina Gray’s personal writings, collection objects, and additional archival resources, this exhibit follows a young Victorian woman as she travelled from Oakland, across the United States, and through Europe and the Middle East between 1875-1877.

From writing letters to Santa Claus to reading A Christmas Carol to decorating our trees, there are several holiday traditions that, for many of us, are important to celebrating the winter holidays. You might be surprised to learn that some of these traditions were popularized in the 19th century. We invite you to explore how different people in the United States celebrated the festive season throughout the 19th century, and learn about the history of a few of your most treasured holiday traditions.

From beautiful objects to seemingly bizarre customs, Morbid Desire helps us understand our Victorian forbears and their connection to death and mourning.