I saw this awesome show called the Prosthetic Reality that had 45 artists explore augmented reality…read moreart that superimposed animated digital art over physical art. I'd never been to this space but it is beautiful and for ArtNight they had a DJ playing really good music.

From the owner: About sp[a]ce Three…read moreyears in the making, sp[a]ce is a Kunsthaus project for showcasing the work of progressive local and international artists. With an environment created by Corsini Stark Architects, the exhibits are complemented by a vision of architecture that reflects a seamless integration of building and site, form and space, light and material, and style and use. Located in beautiful Old Pasadena, sp[a]ce provides a venue for discovery, interaction and inspiration.

Stumbled upon Empty Shelf as I was walking down the Pasadena streets, and it is a must-see if you…read morewant to shop independent artist goods! I loved the concept--each local LA artist has a cube that they can decorate and sell their goods, which can be stickers, stationery goods, ceramics, fine art (both prints or original works), jewelry, and others. Many of these artists live right in the SGV area. On the other side, the owners curated a selection of books directly sourced from Japan. Occasionally they host events which they promote on their instagram. Would recommend stopping by to give a look! I found this is a great way to buy gifts for friends, or find things to decorate my home and my journals.

Empty Shelf is a small and cute bookshop with curated Asian-inspired boutique and gift items…read more [Parking]: There's a public parking lot directly across from the shop and the rate is $1 for two hours total. [Space]: The shop has small box shelves rented out by independent artists and creators to showcase their items. Think of it as a way for Empty Shelf to rent out space so creators can consign their items. I really liked some of the cute designs from the creators featured here. In a way visiting Empty Shelf feels like going to an arts and crafts fair but shrinked into one small brick-and-mortar store. In addition, the shop also has a really niche and interesting selection of English and Japanese books including Japanese Shonen Jump magazines. They even have some Japanese vinyl records. For anyone who is looking for specific popular anime IPs, this is not the gift shop to visit. [Workshops]: Empty Shelf also serves as a venue for various workshops (e.g. Embroidery Cup Sleeve Workshop, Fancy Dumpling Bag Workshop, Perfume Making Workshop, etc). Check Empty Shelf's IG page for additional details on upcoming workshops. [Conclusion]: I am a big fan of this shop and the curated items here are really hitting on all cylinders. I may come here from time to time whenever I need to look for unique, cute, and non anime-inspired gifts.

BAG features excellent artists but even more importantly, gives the artist(s) a terrific…read moreproperly-lit venue with which to display their paintings and other objets d'art. I love BAG's flexible and inventive approach to display space. On opening nights, expect great munchies and libations and a friendly, engaging crowd and, of course, the hosts with the mosts. Tight 'hood parking but there is a large lot about two blocks away (and please don't park in those "Reserved / Tow" spots). Sierra Madre charms all who venture in (provided you park legally). One downside that's not BAG's fault: The nearby Sinclair gas station does not sell Dino tee-shirts for the kids (nor adults).

I LOVE 'The BAG'. I have been to numerous events here, and the art is always really high quality…read more The couple who own it put on a really great opening that you should not miss (every 6 weeks). And they are SUPER nice. Family owned and run, and totally approachable, even for newbie art collectors. They are in my neighborhood and I get to see all of the art shows that come through. An asset to our community, and really good vibes!

There's two floors so much amazing collections to see. The garden area is a work of art. I really…read moreenjoyed it. It's easy to get lost wondering thru each art piece. Can't believe the museum is here in our area. We watched the history of Norton Simon in the theater. Great job narrating his work. I would go again so much to see and be inspire. The Staffs were very professional and courteous.

I've been to this museum twice already since I was amazed at what this location has to offer. It's…read morea smaller museum compared to the Huntington library. If you're a student or have EBT you can access this museum for free. Parking is free as well. You reserve your tickets online & just present your proof of ID for student or EBT. There are 2 floors to this museum & an outdoor garden as well. A mix of European art , modern pieces , sculptures , & Southeast asian art as well. I was here for a good 2 hours for my last visit since I was taking it all in. Once done, I love to grab some kettle chips & a signature drink from their cafe by the garden. I sit & journal for a bit then walk around the gardens. The small souvenir store is delightful in where you can purchase small or large prints of your favorite pieces. Books , trinkets, & museum merchandise is also available. I will come back for their next exhibit to see what other pieces will be displayed.

We don't have a lot of galleries in the valley so I love that Matt Kennedy decided to open this one…read moreup in Pasadena. Matt is also the gallery director at La Luz Dr Jesus gallery, one of the most prestigious galleries in LA. The exhibits shown at 30 South are always thought provoking and I really love how they're always diverse in subject matter. As a gallery owner he's very in tune with not just the past & current trends, but also where art is headed in the future. We stopped by for the private opening of Chuck D's (Public Enemy) 1st art show & we were pleasantly surprised to see Chuck is just as good with art as he us with music. Wow! Such raw energy and Chuck was even there shaking hands and kissing babies lol! Excellent exhibition! Both Matt and his wife are very knowledgeable and his wife also sells her custom (and amazing) jewelry there. If you're in the area, definitely stop in and experience the gallery for yourself. I can't wait to see who & what's next on their plate!

Gallery 30 South, the newish (it opened this year) art gallery from the director of La Luz de Jesus…read moreand his wife and artist, aims to be a "comfortable contemporary art space" with exhibitions and events. The exhibitions run for about a month. It's a small space (one room) with handcrafted contemporary jewelry in one corner. I wasn't sure what the hours were. On the door, it says they're open by appointment only. But now it seems like they are open Wednesday-Sunday. The door was open one day so I walked in to check out the current exhibition, Mythos & Logos by Shaun Berke. The paintings were dark and inspired by Norse mythology but not confined to that period. Nuns, naked women in hoods and other beings engaged in rituals. The largest painting was $30,000. Prior to the Berke exhibit, there was a show by Lindsey Way and Frances Bean Cobain. Frances's pieces sold out in a week. I'm not a contemporary art critic (or even fan) but I do like the mission of Gallery 30 South - to offer a place where people can stroll in and experience interesting, even provocative, contemporary art. They'll carry a range of pieces, from low cost to high end. The owners also are founding members of the Green Street Village, a historic business district in Pasadena. There are mostly independent retailers on the street - in contrast to Old Town Pasadena. It's a pretty street but there isn't much going on - however, it now has this new art gallery. If you like art galleries, check out Flower Pepper Gallery in Old Town Pasadena too.

My some has been coming here for about 9 months now and he loves it. At the beginning I was…read moreskeptical - why the hell am I paying for my kids to color and draw? Seems like he does have fun though and every time he brings something home it looks really nice. Staff are great too as I haven't heard any complaints from my son.

My daughter has been attending this art school for the past 6 months and I have to say that Ms…read more Vicky and the teachers have exceeded my expectations. Everyone is kind, supportive and extremely talented. The staff has taught my daughter art techniques that have blown me away. I highly recommend this art school for anyone wanting to learn about art or for those who already have natural talent and are looking to take their art to the next level.

Walking into this place feels like stepping into another universe -- one made entirely of stories,…read morehistory, and quiet magic. The moment you walk through the door, you're surrounded by towering shelves and beautiful, chaotic stacks of books that feel lovingly curated rather than cluttered. It's the kind of space where time slows down and you forget about your phone because you're too busy discovering something unexpected. Every corner feels alive. The warm lighting, the golden walls, the endless spines of books -- it's cozy, nostalgic, and deeply comforting. You don't just shop here; you explore. And the owner? Truly an angel. Kind, welcoming, and incredibly knowledgeable. You can feel how much heart and soul they've poured into this space. They don't just sell books -- they share stories, recommendations, and genuine warmth. The customer service alone makes you want to come back again and again. If you love books, hidden gems, or places with real character, this is one of those rare magical spots that reminds you why independent shops matter. I'll be thinking about this place for a long time.

There is no other bookstore quite like Century Books, the owners Judith and Steve are some of the…read moremost wholesome people I have been fortunate to meet. Me and my partner love to visit & chat with them about books, plays, and other things while looking around and they are so accommodating, it almost feels like we are their guests in their home. More than reasonable prices and have plenty to choose from.

My niece won 2nd place in Global Canvas! Thank you, Ms. Apple, for guiding her. We're excited for…read moreher to enter the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards next, where she can showcase her skills -- and winning could give her a boost for college applications. Thank you so much

My familiy and I stopped by for the soft opening of the store and had a great time! The artwork on…read morethe walls were so pretty and the gallery Director Apple was so kind and welcoming. I can't wait to take my kids to the upcoming art lessons. THis is a great neighborhood with Boba, good food, historic sties and now an art gallery!! :)