Fascinating Bowers Museum in Santa Ana, CA

SANTA ANA, CALIF.–It was nearly 100 degrees in the courtyard where dancers performed, but inside the Bowers Museum the air was cool as a cucumber. This past weekend hundreds of people poured in, hoping to get a glimpse of the newest exhibit, "Gods & Gifts: Vatican Ethnological Collection". 65 indigenous spiritual pieces from the vast holdings of the Vatican enable visitors to learn about the global significance of the objects and their journey. It is an example of the quality of exhibitions constantly raising the bar in Orange County.

Fascinating Bowers with its ever-changing treasure trove of paintings, sculptures, baskets, wood carvings, glass, pottery, gem stones and objects from around the globe, is focused on cultures as seen through their clothing, art and objects. To plan your visit, see bowers. org

Exhibits at  Bowers Museum have included:

• Spirits and Headhunters: Art of the Pacific Islands
• Sacred Realms: Temple Murals by Shashi Dhoj Tulachan
• Ancient Arts of China: A 5000 Year Legacy
• California: The Golden Years
• First Californians
• Pre-Columbian Exhibits
• California Legacies: Missions and Ranchos (1768-1848)

Santa Ana Zoo is a nearby attraction, among many such as include Discovery Science Center and Westfield MainPlace.