About US
We are OMCA.
OMCA inspires Californians to create a more vibrant future for themselves and their communities.
We explore the big ideas that shape California lives, then bring to life the untold and under-told stories of the people behind them—all with a distinctly Oakland point of view.
We are more than a museum. We’re a museum, garden, and gathering place. Our mission is to inspire understanding and empathy with stories and experiences of California’s art, history, and natural environment to build more equitable and connected communities.
With more than 1.9 million objects, OMCA brings together our multidisciplinary collections of art, history, and natural science, all within our 110,000 square feet of gallery space and seven-acre campus.
OMCA is a leading cultural institution of the Bay Area and a resource for the research and understanding of California’s dynamic cultural and environmental heritage for visitors from the region, the state, and around the world.
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SubscribeHighlights
The mission of the Oakland Museum of California is to inspire understanding and empathy with stories and experiences of California’s art, history, and natural environment to build more equitable and connected communities.
OMCA opened its doors in 1969 and has always been a place where visitors can discover their place in California’s past, present, and future.
OMCA leadership consists of the 6 member Senior Directors Council and a Board of Trustees.
This year has been an exciting and dynamic one, and building community has remained at the forefront of our work. We’re proud of what we accomplished thanks to your support.
The Oakland Museum Women’s Board started the White Elephant Sale over sixty years ago. The annual event is not-to-be-missed.
OMCA is on an ongoing journey to become a more equitable, anti-racist institution.
OMCA’s history of partnership with and respect for Native communities is at the center of our ongoing journey to becoming a more equitable, anti-racist institution. We fully support the intentions of the new NAGPRA regulations and welcome them as opportunities for not just continuing, but expanding and deepening our relationships with Native communities.
Awards
The annual CAMMY Award recognizes extraordinary museum supporters, professionals, and institutions that have made outstanding contributions to California museums. OMCA is elated to announce that this year, CAM has recognized one of our very own, Executive Director and CEO, Lori Fogarty! This award highlights her dedicated leadership throughout her extensive career, including within her role of nearly two decades at OMCA, an institution that centers community engagement, field innovation, and a commitment to inclusivity and diversity. Congratulations, Lori!
The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) awarded OMCA one of only six recipients of the 2022 National Medal for Museum and Library Service, the nation’s highest honor for museums and libraries making significant and exceptional contributions to their communities.
In 2019, OMCA was honored to receive the Oakland Chamber of Commerce’s Heart of Oakland award. Each year, the award is given to a local organization that exemplifies the city’s persistent spirit.