Bergamot Station - An Art Lovers Dream In Santa Monica

Bergamot Station is a world-famous arts and culture complex, boasting approximately 30 art galleries and creative businesses. Opened in September 1994, the campus-like complex also hosts the Santa Monica Museum of Art. Here, we take a look at the history of this magnificent gem in the city of Santa Monica. 

History of Bergamot Station

Bergamot Station derived its name from Wild Bergamot, a wildflower that once thrived in the area. It was originally a rail stop and car storage area between 1875 and 1953. Los Angeles and Independence Railroad first used it before the facility was taken up by the Santa Monica Air Line. 

Passenger service would later cease operation, rendering the station idle. Consequently, the Southern Pacific Railroad decided to lease the land to various companies for light manufacturing. However, the station unfortunately was abandoned by the late 1980s.

The city of Santa Monica had to look for productive use for the site. An artistic use was then conceived with the help of Wayne Blank, developer and co-owner of the Shoshana Wayne Gallery. And the Bergamot art complex was born. 

Since its opening in 1994, the complex has grown over the years to become one of the most famous art destinations in Santa Monica. In January 2018, it was officially renamed the 26th Street Art Center. Nonetheless, the Worthe Group, the managing company, still refers to the facility as “Bergamot” in all its marketing materials.

Top Three Must-Visit
Galleries in Bergamot Station

Bergamot is home to at least 30 art galleries, but below are three galleries that you may not want to miss whenever you visit the place:

Robert Berman B7 Gallery – One of the first galleries to move into Bergamot Station, the Robert Berman B7 Gallery showcases the works of midcareer and time-honored artists. Some of the most outstanding artwork includes that of L.A. artist Dennis Mukai, which is created by meticulously sandpapering away dark paint, revealing the white plaster surface beneath.

Peter Fetterman Gallery – If you are a photography enthusiast, your trip to Bergamot can’t be complete without visiting Peter Fetterman’s gallery, which boasts a remarkable inventory of 20th-century humanist and documentary photos. It is truly an ode to the art of photography.

Latin-American Masters – If you want to learn a thing or two about contemporary Latin-American art, then this is the gallery to visit. Besides showcasing contemporary Latin-American Art, the gallery also has a rotating schedule of solo displays by living artists.

Conclusion

What was initially a red line metro stop and a manufacturing base for various industries has been transformed into an art center that houses more than 30 galleries. Since it opened to the public in 1994, Bergamot Station has evolved into a must-visit destinations for art enthusiasts in Santa Monica and beyond. You can easily spend an entire day browsing the different galleries. Consider checking the events on their site before you visit, as there are usually artists’ exhibitions and opening events taking place there.