Craft Contemporary

Introduction

Craft Contemporary, located on Los Angeles’ celebrated Museum Row, is a leading institution dedicated to contemporary craft. Since its founding in 1965 by artist Edith Robinson Wyle as The Egg and The Eye, it has transformed from an innovative gallery-restaurant hybrid into a forward-thinking museum fostering inclusivity, artistic experimentation, and community engagement. Whether you are a craft enthusiast, art lover, or tourist exploring Los Angeles historical sites, this guide provides essential information on Craft Contemporary’s visiting hours, ticketing, exhibitions, and visitor tips to help you plan a memorable and enriching experience (Craft Contemporary Official Website).

Essential Visitor Information

Visiting Hours

• Regular Hours: Tuesday through Sunday, 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• Closed: Mondays and major holidays
• Extended Hours: First Thursday of each month, open until 8:00 PM
• Note: Always confirm specific hours and special closures on the official website.

Ticket Prices and Admission

• General Admission: $10 for adults
• Seniors (65+) & Students (with valid ID): $7
• Youth under 12 and Museum Members: Free
• Pay What You Can: Every Sunday
• Special Free Days: First Wednesday of each month
• Tickets: Purchase online or at the entrance (Craft Contemporary Visit).

Accessibility

Craft Contemporary is fully accessible, with wheelchair ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms. Service animals are welcome. For additional accommodations, contact the museum prior to your visit.

Getting There and Parking

• Location: 5814 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036
• Public Transportation: Served by Metro bus lines 20, 720, and 76
• Parking: Metered street parking and nearby public garages on Curson and Wilshire. Always check street signs (Craft Contemporary Visit).

The Egg and The Eye (1965–1973)

Founded by Edith R. Wyle, The Egg and The Eye was a pioneering space that combined a gallery showcasing contemporary craft and folk art with a restaurant famous for its omelet menu. This unique combination became a cultural hub for artists and the public, elevating craft as a serious art form and fostering community dialogue (Craft Contemporary About; The GPS Guide).

Craft and Folk Art Museum (1973–2018)

In 1973, the institution became the Craft and Folk Art Museum (CAFAM), one of the first U.S. museums exclusively dedicated to craft and folk art. Under Wyle’s vision, it showcased artists such as Sam Maloof and Beatrice Wood, highlighting both global traditions and L.A.’s creative diversity (Wikipedia; Craft in America).

Despite facing closures and financial challenges in the 1990s, CAFAM persevered, reopening with renewed focus and expanded programming.

Craft Contemporary (2019–Present)

Rebranded as Craft Contemporary in 2019, the museum now focuses solely on contemporary craft. The name change emphasizes its role as a platform for innovation, spotlighting both emerging and established artists and prioritizing underrepresented voices (Craft Contemporary About).

Institutional Significance and Community Engagement

Craft Contemporary is recognized as a vital cultural institution, welcoming approximately 30,000 visitors annually. Its non-collecting model allows for dynamic, responsive exhibitions and public programs. The museum is celebrated for championing inclusivity, fostering cross-cultural dialogue, and advancing the discourse on contemporary craft. Community engagement is central, with collaborations involving local schools, cultural organizations, and artists.

The museum’s Southeast mural, created with local schoolchildren and inspired by the “Black Folk Art in America, 1930–1980” exhibition, symbolizes its commitment to accessible and community-responsive programming (Craft Contemporary About).

Rotating Exhibitions and Artistic Diversity

Craft Contemporary does not maintain a permanent collection, focusing instead on rotating exhibitions that reflect the evolving nature of craft (Craft Contemporary - WhichMuseum). Each show is curated to respond to contemporary issues and trends, and include a broad range of materials and techniques.

Notable Current and Upcoming Exhibitions (as of July 2025):

• IAO Olfactory Storylab Maker-in-Residence (June 7 – September 7, 2025): Residency exploring the world of scent through interactive workshops (Craft Contemporary Exhibitions).
• the air we share (May 31 – September 7, 2025): Group exhibition exploring the element of air through various craft media.
• Ether: Aromatic Mythologies (May 31 – September 7, 2025): Works using aroma as a medium for storytelling.
• Light Gauge (June 21 – October 12, 2025): Installations employing light as material and subject.

Exhibition Themes:

• Ceramics, textiles, fiber arts, glass, metal, wood
• Multisensory and participatory art
• Sustainability, identity, and healing (Craft Contemporary - WhichMuseum)

Public Programs and Special Events

Craft Contemporary’s robust public programming includes:

• Maker Nights: Evening craft sessions inspired by current exhibitions (Craft Contemporary Programs).
• Workshops: Covering techniques from ceramics to printmaking, suitable for all skill levels.
• Family Programs: Hands-on “Craft Lab” activities for intergenerational learning.
• Artist Talks and Lectures: Deep dives into exhibition themes and craft discourse.
• Open Studio Sessions: Observe and engage with artists in residence.
• Annual Festivals: Such as the Day of the Dead and Scent Fair LA (Art and Olfaction).

Additionally, the museum hosts collaborative projects with local institutions and offers educational outreach to schools and underserved communities.

Gift Shop

The Craft Contemporary shop features a curated selection of handmade works by local and international artisans, perfect for unique gifts or souvenirs (Craft Contemporary Shop).

Visitor Tips

• Plan 1–2 hours for your visit to explore exhibitions thoroughly.
• Attend a workshop or Maker Night for a deeper, hands-on experience.
• Visit on Sundays for Pay What You Can admission or on the first Thursday for extended evening hours.
• Combine your visit with other Museum Row attractions like LACMA or the La Brea Tar Pits for a full cultural day.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are Craft Contemporary’s visiting hours?
A: Tuesday–Sunday, 11:00 AM–5:00 PM. Closed Mondays. Extended hours on the first Thursday of each month.

Q: How much is admission?
A: $10 for adults, $7 for seniors and students, free for youth under 12 and members. Pay What You Can on Sundays.

Q: Is the museum wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.

Q: How do I get there?
A: Located at 5814 Wilshire Blvd, accessible by Metro bus and close to parking options.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, tours and educational programs are offered regularly.

Q: Are there special events?
A: Yes, including workshops, festivals, artist talks, and performances.