UnHoused
2024
February 2 – May 31
An immersive examination of the city’s architectural heritage, environmental dynamics, and the complex interplay of socio-political factors
Curator: Anne Wallentine
EXHIBITION
Un/Housed
A History of Housing in Santa Monica
From the Tongva people to its contemporary beach town metropolis, this exhibition delves into the heart of Santa Monica’s housing legacy by providing perspectives on policy and development.
It moves to poignant narratives of migration, affordability, redlining, restrictive covenants, and the ever-relevant topic of rent control.
Addressing contemporary housing challenges faced by Santa Monica and the region, the exhibition further explores affordable housing, support systems for those experiencing homelessness, equity and inclusion, and the importance of historic preservation in maintaining the city’s cultural identity.
UnHoused at the Santa Monica History Museum seeks to foster community dialogue about the past, present, and future of housing. It emphasizes that housing is not merely a structure but a reflection of community, inclusivity, and shared heritage.
Visitors are invited to engage with the future through interactive models and thoughtprovoking questions like “What makes a home?” and “Why does Santa Monica look the way it does today?” The exhibition centers around the future of housing, encouraging contemplation of the evolving nature of residential spaces.
“Housing is perhaps the preeminent issue in our region and across all of California. It is critical to understand where we’ve been and how we got here.”
-Rob Schwenker, Executive Director Santa Monica History Museum.
This exhibition is made possible through the generous support of our sponsors
