Armand Hammer Museum of Art and Cultural Center

The Armand Hammer Museum of Art and Cultural Center hosts exhibitions and programs along with a large collection or works which examine the depth and diversity of artistic expression through the centuries. It is a unique institution which connects classic and contemporary works.

The museum is located at the gateway between Los Angeles and the University of California. Students from the University can gain exposure to the world of creative human endeavors.

The museum opened in November 1990 and was founded by Dr. Armand Hammer as a place for him to display his collections along with travelling exhibitions. Hammer died three weeks after the opening with many parts of construction incomplete, including the 300 seat theater on the courtyard level.

The works at the museum are contemporary and historical work in the media of visual arts. They promote cultural understanding and introduce work of underrepresented artists. Many travelling exhibitions are included at the museum.

As a cultural center the museum aims to be a vibrant intellectual forum for visitors and students to explore cultural, political and social issues. The public programs include lectures, symposia, films, readings and musical performances. The museum now features the Billy Wilder Theater providing programs in film, art and cultural dialogue. The Billy Wilder Theater is also home to the Archives of cinemateque of the Hammer Museum.

Adjacent to the museum's courtyard is the Hammer Café, by Wolfgang Puck which served freshly made sandwiches, soups and salads that have been prepared with produce from the farmer's market and local suppliers.