Moulton Museum at Soka University
Nellie Gail Moulton: Through the Eyes of a Pioneer Woman tells the story of Nellie’s arrival from Kansas to California at the turn of the century. Nellie Gail Moulton (1878 – 1972) belongs to a larger movement of female artists who have recently gained significant recognition for their contributions to the arts. Nellie created art throughout her entire life and studied with renowned artists such as William Wendt, Frank Cuprien, Edgar Payne, and Anna Hills who are featured in the gallery. Nellie oversaw Moulton Ranch from 1938-1950 with her daughters Charlotte and Louise. Nellie’s collection of en plein air paintings and sketches are shown along Jane Barnes’ watercolors, her granddaughter. This exhibit showcases Nellie’s life as a pioneer who ushered a new era for Orange County arts and education.
Exhibit Scheduled: May 18, 2023- September 8, 2023
Location: Soka University, Founders Art Gallery. 1 University Drive Aliso Viejo, CA 92656
Crystal Cove Collection at UCI
Crystal Cove is a picturesque coastal area located in Orange County, California. The Crystal Cove Cottages Preservation Project is an ongoing effort to restore and preserve the historic beachfront cottages that were built in the early 20th century. These cottages were originally used as vacation rentals and served as a seaside retreat for many families.
Over time, as development pressures increased, the cottages faced the risk of demolition. However, a collaborative effort between the California Coastal Commission, Crystal Cove Alliance (a nonprofit organization), and the state park system led to the preservation of these cottages. They are now part of the Crystal Cove State Park and have been restored to their original condition, showcasing the coastal lifestyle of the past.
70 Degrees is partnered with UCI Libraries and Laura Davick, Founder of Crystal Cove Conservancy, to process and digitize this historic collection. The collection will be made available at the university and on-site via digital technologies that include QR codes with a dedicated websites.
Founder emeritus of the Crystal Cove Conservancy, Laura Davick, has generously donated her archives to be part of the Orange County Regional History Collection in the UCI Libraries’ Special Collections & Archives Department. As a third generation “Coveite,” or resident of Crystal Cove, Ms. Davick’s collection includes photographs, oral histories, and ephemera, which document 100 years of Crystal Cove’s history. Crystal Cove, situated on 3.2 miles of coastline between Corona Del Mar and Laguna Beach, has a long and important history of farming, recreation, and habitat conservation in Orange County. In addition to her collection, Ms. Davick also made a generous gift to establish a new endowment at the Libraries. The Laura Davick Crystal Cove Historical Archive Collection Endowment, will provide support for the processing, preservation, and access to her collection and other Orange County Regional history collections at UCI. Ms. Davick shared, “Crystal Cove has been a huge part of my family’s history dating back to 1937. Since 1999, I have dedicated my life to the protection and preservation of this incredible historic resource. During this period,
Laura Davick’s grandparents and Laura’s uncle. Guy and Mable Webb and their son Tom Webb. Circa 1937 first arriving at Crystal Cove to begin tent camping for the summer. I have worked on many levels to ensure that Crystal Cove is preserved for future generations through the organization that I founded, now known as Crystal Cove Conservancy. Part of that process has also been about preserving its history. I can think of no better place than UCI Libraries Special Collections and Archives to be the ultimate repository of my collection and family records. For the past two decades it has been my intention to see this through during my lifetime. It brings me great peace to know that this journey has now finally begun.”
Upcoming July Events
The Great Plein Air Art Experience
July 20 @ 9:00 am – 2:00 pm
Celebrate over 100 years of plein air art at Crystal Cove State Park and spend a relaxing day capturing the beauty of the Cove on canvas with the help of a Crystal Cove plein air artist! No experience required; this introductory class is recommended for novices only.
All supplies will be provided! Class size is limited to 12. Minimum age is 18.
Time: 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM
Instructor: Debbie Morines
Location: Cottage #13 (The Beaches Cottage), Historic District, Crystal Cove State Park
What to Bring: Water, sunscreen, long sleeve shirt, hat, and stool or chair (optional)
Parking: $15 Day Use fee per vehicle; free with State Parks annual pass.
Price: $120 per workshop; $100 for Crystal Cove Conservancy members.
Historic District Walking Tour
July 22 @ 2:30 pm – 4:00 pm
