Norton Simon Museum in Pasadena

The Norton Simon Museum in Pasadena stands out as one of the most concentrated art experiences in Southern California. It’s renowned for offering an impressive array of significant artworks in a compact space. While establishments such as the Getty Center and LA County Museum of Art delight visitors with numerous masterpieces, the Norton Simon excels in art value per step. Initially based on the private art collection of industrialist Norton Simon, the museum took over the Pasadena Art Museum in 1974 and has since expanded its vast collection.

Norton Simon Museum Overview and Orientation

The museum is organized across two levels. The Main or Upper Level primarily features European and American exhibits.

The Art Upstairs: European and American Art

If you begin your visit chronologically, one of the earlier pieces to seek out is an exquisite display showcasing European and American artistry.

The Art Downstairs: South and Southeast Asian Art

Many people often overlook the Lower Level of the Norton Simon; however, a visit is highly recommended. The Asian Art Collection boasts works predominantly from India, with additional representations from Tibet, Nepal, Cambodia, Thailand, and more. This section features a splendid array of statues including those of Buddha, Vishnu, and Ganesh, alongside captivating pieces that highlight the playful and erotic elements characteristic of South Asian art.

The temporary exhibit galleries, also located downstairs, offer rotating displays from the permanent collection, providing fresh insight into the museum’s extensive holdings.

The Art and Food Outside: Sculpture Gardens at the Norton Simon Museum

In addition to its indoor collections, the Norton Simon Museum is home to a prized Sculpture Garden and Café. This serene area features a collection of large sculptures, predominantly by French artist Aristide Maillol, encircling a tranquil pond. The café, operated by the Patina Group, ensures visitors have access to enjoyable meals, such as a well-crafted chicken sandwich. Moreover, a lesser-known Asian Sculpture Garden can be accessed from the Lower Level.

However, the most prominent outdoor art includes the Rodin collection situated at the museum entrance. The Norton Simon proudly houses one of 12 copies of Auguste Rodin’s iconic six-figure Burghers of Calais and several of Rodin’s studies of individual figures, created before the final sculpture was compiled. The Burghers of Calais was commissioned by the city to commemorate the sacrifice of six wealthy citizens who offered themselves as hostages to the King of England in 1347 to save their town from siege. In the completed sculpture, the six figures are depicted in tattered clothing and with nooses around their necks. Rodin’s work illustrates a remarkable evolution of character development through his preliminary studies displayed in the garden.

Norton Simon Museum – Visitor Information – Location – Hours

The Norton Simon Museum
411 West Colorado Blvd.
Pasadena, CA 91105
Phone: (626) 449-6840
Website: www.nortonsimon.org
Hours: Mon, Wed noon-5 pm, Friday & Sat 11 am – 8 pm, Sun 11 am – 5 pm, closed Tuesday
Museum gardens and store close 15 minutes before galleries.
Closed Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.
Admission: $12 adults, $9 seniors, free for children under 18, students with ID, and Active Military with ID. Free to all on the first Friday of the month from 5 to 8 pm.
Parking: Free lot
Audio tour: $3 per unit

This information was accurate at the time of publication but may change at any time. Please check the museum website for the most current information.