Los Angeles is home to a staggering range of museums, and while many of them are well-known, there are hidden gems waiting to be discovered. A recent book titled “Also on View: Unique and Unexpected Museums of Greater Los Angeles” by Todd Lerew sheds light on these overlooked treasures. In this captivating read, Lerew introduces 64 lesser-known museums and collections he meticulously researched over a decade.
From the Zimmerman Automobile Driving Museum to the Garifuna Museum of Los Angeles, Lerew highlights diverse attractions that reflect the rich tapestry of culture in the region. His book serves as a guide, inviting Angelenos and visitors alike to delve into a cultural landscape that often goes unnoticed.
Lerew’s curiosity and passion for collecting experiences fuel his explorations. Over the years, he has embarked on an ambitious journey, visiting hundreds of museums and libraries throughout Southern California. His quest for unique places led him to join numerous clubs, leading to his self-proclaimed “compulsive nerdiness.”
Among the featured spots are the Historical Glass Museum in Redlands and the quirky Museum of Jurassic Technology in Culver City, proving that there is truly something for everyone. Even specific themes like skateboarding and fast food find a home in these unusual collections, showcasing the eclectic interests of both curators and visitors.
During his travels, Lerew encountered extraordinary individuals like Kari Barba, the founder of Outer Limits Tattoo and Museum in Long Beach. Barba transformed a building steeped in history into a one-of-a-kind destination for tattoo enthusiasts. Her dedication to preserving the story of tattooing reflects the spirit of these mom-and-pop museums that populate Greater Los Angeles.
The book also features artists like Karen Collins, whose African American Miniature Museum consists of intricate dioramas capturing pivotal moments in Black history. Collins aims to inspire young minds through art, showing that even the smallest efforts can lead to profound impacts on communities.
Beyond the pages of his book, Lerew has launched the website everymuseum.la, which catalogs over 700 museums in Southern California, offering a comprehensive resource for enthusiasts eager to uncover hidden cultural gems. He maintains an ongoing personal list of 3,231 museums worldwide that he hopes to explore someday.
Lerew’s efforts remind us that a museum can exist outside traditional structures, representing the diverse stories and histories that form the heart of Los Angeles. As he continues to champion these lesser-known spaces, he encourages everyone to view museums not only as places of education but also as vital storytellers of our shared heritage. In a city that often overlooks these small but significant collections, Lerew’s work shines a spotlight on the unique narratives just waiting to be uncovered.