Triton Museum of Art: A Cultural Gem Hidden in Residential Santa Clara
Most Silicon Valley residents have no idea that the Triton Museum of Art—found in a residential neighborhood across the street from Santa Clara City Hall—even exists. It’s a hidden treasure, and, even better, the Triton Museum of Art is free.
All three of Triton’s gallery spaces change exhibits every two to three months, drawing from the work of Northern California, national and international artists, as well as a permanent collection. Besides the rotunda at the entrance, the art is displayed in two large gallery rooms. There’s also a small museum store and a studio where art is taught to all ages. The airy rotunda’s pyramidal skylights and curved wall of glass that looks out onto the sculpture garden make it the airiest and most inviting space in the 22,000-square-foot contemporary building.
Among Triton’s events, which also include artist lectures and receptions, Family Art Day is most popular because of its hands-on art activities.
Before or after visiting the museum, be sure to walk around the seven-acre grounds. Out front is a 1966 bronze of a Morgan horse and a grove of palm trees, while behind the museum is a big lawn with redwoods, rosebushes and a small sculpture garden with several bronzes. Among them are the stunning 2001 set of bronze human and animal figures, “The Sanctuary,” and Francis Sedgwick’s “The Sisters.”
Along the curved path on the lawn’s perimeter are the Santa Clara Players theater and two converted homes, the Headen-Inman house (now the Santa Clara Historical Museum—free and open most Sundays from 1 to 4 p.m.) and the 1860s Jamison-Brown house (mostly used for weddings but you can peek into the windows).
HelloSanJose Tip: Ask to see Austen Warburton’s collection of Hopi, Ohlone and Anasazi tribal art in the back room. Docents won’t mind leading you there.
Posted by Bob Cooper
