On Thursday, September 19, a group of current Norco College art students and professor Michelle Ramin embarked on an enriching field trip to The Broad art museum in Los Angeles, organized by Michelle Ramin. The highlight of the visit was the Mickalene Thomas exhibition, "All About Love", an expansive and immersive exploration of contemporary art.
Mickalene Thomas, a celebrated artist known for her large-scale portraiture, frequently focuses on depicting Black women with poise and confidence, combining striking patterns with domestic settings. Her work in this exhibition goes beyond traditional 2D portraiture, expanding into interactive installations and video works. This multi-dimensional approach deepens Thomas' already vibrant world, showcasing her ongoing celebration of intelligence, beauty, power, and grace.
The field trip gave students an opportunity to experience not only Thomas' work but also The Broad’s renowned permanent collection. Students walked through iconic works by influential artists like Jeff Koons, Andy Warhol, Kara Walker, and Basquiat, as well as contemporary talents like Kehinde Wiley, Amy Sherald, and Barbara Kruger. A highlight of the day was experiencing the famous Infinity Room by Yayoi Kusama, which offers a breathtaking immersion into a seemingly endless space of reflection and light.
The Norco College students left inspired and energized, having spent the day engaging deeply with the art, culture, and creativity that The Broad Museum offers. The enriching experience sparked meaningful discussions and further fueled their passion for artistic exploration.
"We had an absolute blast and can't wait to go back," shared Ramin the faculty member leading the trip. "This field trip allowed our students to see and feel the immense power of contemporary art in person, and I believe it will have a lasting impact on their growth as artists."
About The Broad
The Broad is a contemporary art museum located in the heart of downtown Los Angeles, known for its distinctive architecture and its vast collection of postwar and contemporary art. Opened in 2015, the museum was founded by philanthropists Eli and Edythe Broad, whose private collection serves as the backbone of the institution's offerings. The museum's striking honeycomb-like exterior, designed by the architecture firm Diller Scofidio + Renfro, invites visitors into a space where art and design converge seamlessly. The Broad houses over 2,000 works of art, featuring an extensive array of pieces from some of the most influential artists of the 20th and 21st centuries, including Jean-Michel Basquiat, Yayoi Kusama, Jeff Koons, and Cindy Sherman.
Inside, the museum is known for its engaging and dynamic displays, offering visitors an intimate encounter with contemporary culture. The Broad's permanent collection emphasizes bold, thought-provoking works, while its rotating exhibitions push the boundaries of artistic expression. One of its most popular features is Kusama’s Infinity Mirrored Room, a fully immersive installation that transports viewers into a boundless, reflective universe. Whether exploring the museum’s vast collection or attending one of its innovative public programs, visitors to The Broad are given a unique opportunity to engage with cutting-edge art in a space designed to inspire curiosity and creativity.
About Norco College Art Program
The art program at Norco College offers students a dynamic and comprehensive education in the visual arts, fostering creativity and critical thinking through a diverse range of courses and hands-on experiences. With classes in drawing, painting, sculpture, digital media, and art history, the program encourages students to explore various mediums and techniques while developing their personal artistic voice. Small class sizes and dedicated faculty provide personalized guidance, creating an environment where students can thrive both creatively and academically. Additionally, Norco College’s art program emphasizes real-world engagement, offering opportunities like museum field trips, gallery exhibitions, and collaborations with local artists. This holistic approach ensures that students are well-prepared to pursue careers in the arts or continue their education at four-year institutions.
About Michelle Ramin
Michelle Ramin is a contemporary artist whose work delves into personal and societal narratives, often blurring the line between the two. Using media like watercolor, colored pencils, and oils, Ramin creates detailed and vivid imagery that combines realism with a dreamlike quality. Her art frequently reflects on themes such as identity, family, and the human condition, while also addressing broader cultural and political issues. She explores concepts like consumerism, privilege, and the social constructs that shape our lives, offering a visual critique of the world around her.
Ramin's body of work is notable for its ability to evoke both personal introspection and cultural commentary, prompting viewers to consider the complexities of modern life. Her exhibitions, held in various galleries and museums across the U.S. and internationally, showcase her distinctive style and thought-provoking subjects. Ramin's art is not only visually striking but also intellectually engaging, inviting the audience to reflect on the societal pressures and dynamics that influence their own experiences.