Exploring the Lesser-Known Treasures of L.A. Museums
In the vast cultural landscape of Los Angeles, many remarkable museums often remain overshadowed by their more famous counterparts. However, there’s a fresh take on this narrative in Todd Lerew’s newly released book, “Also on View: Unique and Unexpected Museums of Greater Los Angeles.” In it, Lerew dives deep into the unsung corners of L.A.’s museum scene, revealing 64 unique spots that even the most seasoned Angelenos might not be familiar with.
Lerew, a dedicated explorer with a penchant for quirky collections, embarked on an extensive journey that took him through countless museums across Greater Los Angeles, leading to the creation of a companion website, everymuseum.la, which lists over 780 local museums and collections. His enthusiasm for documenting intriguing and unique spots stems from a lifetime of curiosity and a commitment to uncovering the obscure.
In his book, Lerew taps into a decade of research, showcasing a diverse range of museums that celebrate everything from fast food to skateboard culture, and even the intricacies of vertebrate zoology. Among the highlights are the Museum of Jurassic Technology, the Skid Row History Museum & Archive, and the Finnish Folk Art Museum in Pasadena. Lerew’s exploration goes beyond just tourist attractions; he digs into the grassroots efforts of passionate individuals who keep these lesser-known institutions alive.
One noteworthy visit includes the Outer Limits Tattoo and Museum in Long Beach, the oldest operating tattoo shop in the United States. Here, the founder, Kari Barba, shares stories of the shop’s storied past while unearthing artifacts that chronicle the history of tattooing in the area. Lerew’s journey isn’t just about visiting museums; it’s about connecting with the unique individuals behind them.
Reflecting on his childhood in rural South Dakota, Lerew credits his fascination with the unusual to the countless road trips he took with his family to see roadside attractions. These early experiences shaped his adult pursuits, leading him to a career at the Library Foundation of Los Angeles, where he has curated exhibitions and created public platforms for little-known collectors.
His book challenges readers to reconsider what constitutes a museum. To Lerew, a museum can be any place dedicated to preserving and sharing stories, even if it lacks formal recognition or certification. This open-minded approach allows him to uncover a world filled with vibrant narratives that might otherwise be overlooked.
One such narrative is that of Karen Collins, a retired teacher who creates intricate miniatures depicting crucial moments in African American history. Collins’ work has been recognized in public exhibitions, and she is now hoping to find a permanent home for her collection to inspire future generations.
Lerew remains committed to exploring even more hidden gems. His desire to discover additional museums is relentless, with a running list of over 3,200 unvisited potential spots on his phone, extending his curiosity beyond the borders of California.
In “Also on View,” Todd Lerew invites readers to explore the lesser-known cultural artifacts of Los Angeles that are ripe for discovery. These hidden treasures may just change the way we think about the city’s rich and varied history.