Helen and Newton Harrison: California Work Programs

As part of the Getty Foundation’s Pacific Standard Time: Art and Science Collide, La Jolla Historical Society presents a retrospective exhibition about the work of husband-and-wife team of Helen Mayer and Newton Harrison.

Explore our upcoming exhibition programs featuring a range of engaging workshops, lectures, presentations, and events designed to inspire and connect. Don’t miss out on these unique opportunities to learn about the work of Helen Mayer and Newton Harrison, who were among the earliest and most notable ecological artists.


Growing Together: A Family Day of Native Planting

Join us for a day of planting native plants and learn from community partners about the importance of native species and their role in the ecosystem.

Sunday, November 10th

Learn more.

Keynote Lecture

Thinking with the Harrisons: What Does Re-Making Civic Environments Mean? Moderated by Chris Fremantle and Anne Douglas. Featured panelists include Lauren Bon, Teddy Cruz, Fonna Forman, Gabriel Harrison and Chris Scorza.

Saturday, November 16th

Reserve your spot.

Harrison Retrospective Bus Tour

Experience the ultimate California Work adventure on our exclusive bus tour, visiting all four sites of the exhibition for a day filled with ecological art. Lunch included. Space is limited.

Saturday, December 7th

Purchase your ticket.

Barbara Benish Ecofeminism Performance & Lecture

"Strawberry Jam" (for Helen Mayer Harrison) 
Performance & lecture on
eco-feminism & Helen's contribution to environmental art.

Sunday, December 8th

Reserve your spot.


California Work: Family Day

Join us for our free, monthly art-making workshop! Every 2nd Sunday from 12-2 PM.

October 13

Be inspired by Oscar Romo in this artist-guided workshop, rooted in his dedication to protecting and restoring the environment.

November 10

Join us and horticulturist, Carla Quimson, along with other community partners, for a vibrant Community Planting Day.

More coming soon!

December 8

Experience the joy of homemade preserves in a special jam making and tasting workshop led by artist Barbara Benish, a close friend of the Harrison family.

More coming soon!

January 12

Participate in a poetry workshop inspired by the Harrisons, where we’ll create expressive collages that bring your verses to life.