Santa Monica Pleasure Pier:
A Look Back to 1917 From Today
2019
November 5 – February 22
This exhibition is a visual exploration by Michael Murphy and Jens Lucking. It provides a unique opportunity to view the original photographs, plans, and drawings that Charles Looff created to solicit investment and other support for his popular new pier.
Rare images and ephemera from the Stephen Raul Anaya Collection, show how Looff, more than a century ago, transformed Santa Monica’s now world-famous pier from municipal utility into the “Pleasure Pier,” the earliest iteration of today’s world-renowned pier.
Several images on display are from Michael Murphy’s book Santa Monica Pleasure Pier: A look back to 1917 from Today, available in our Gift Shop.
Our archivist, Sara Crown, provided historical insights.
Curators: Sara Crown with Michael Murphy
Thank you to our Sponsors!
Special Thank You to
Stephen Anaya
Michael Murphy
Jens Lucking
– Lead –
– Bronze –
– Sea Plane –
– Individual –
Janice and Paul Shapiro