Triton Museum of Art

The Triton Museum of Art showcases works by California artists that are aesthetically and historically significant to the region and which demonstrate its community’s diversity of cultural traditions, influences, and ideas.

Located across the street from the Santa Clara Civic Center, the Triton Museum collects contemporary and historical works with an emphasis on artists of the Greater Bay Area. More than 40,000 people walk through the museum’s doors every year.

The first non-university art museum in Santa Clara County, the Triton Museum was founded by rancher and art patron W. Robert Morgan and his wife, June, in 1965. After almost two years at its first location in San Jose, the Triton moved to Santa Clara. Construction on a new facility began in the boom years of the 1970s, with the expanded 22,000-square-foot space opening up in October 1987.

Through its exhibits and events, the Triton strives to serve the culturally diverse population of the Greater Bay Area while fostering a better understanding of art and its role in building a stronger community.

Mission Statement

The mission of the Triton Museum of Art is to generate community dialogue, enhance cultural understanding, and increase creative and critical thinking through innovative programs and the vocabulary of art.

Services

For 59 years, the Triton Museum of Art has been a destination for the community, providing a venue where local artists exhibit their work alongside regional and national artists and where students of all ages learn about art and the creative process. Located across the street from the Santa Clara Civic Center, the Triton Museum of Art collects and exhibits contemporary and historical works with an emphasis on artists of the Greater Bay Area. Over 40,000 people attend the museum on-site annually through its exhibitions, education, and community programs, and over 90,000 people view the museum's satellite gallery and exhibitions annually.

History

The Triton Museum of Art was founded by rancher, lawyer, and art patron W. Robert Morgan and his wife June in San Jose, California, in 1965. It was the first non-university art museum in the county. Less than two years after its opening, the Triton Museum moved to its current location within the City of Santa Clara. Exhibitions and programs were held in four pavilions surrounded by a seven-acre park.

Due to the tremendous economic and population growth of the Santa Clara Valley during the 1970s, a new facility was built to serve the changing needs of the community. Construction for the current facility was completed in October 1987. The 22,000-square-foot space features high ceilings, pyramidal skylights, and dramatic lighting. The spacious design of the building was created for versatile exhibition presentation as well as an aesthetically pleasing experience for museum visitors.

Partners

City of Santa Clara, SVCreates, Applied Materials Foundations, California Arts Council

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