LOS ALTOS, CA (May 5, 2026) – Los Altos History Museum explores the healing power of art and storytelling in a program focused on the human impact of one of the largest forced migrations of the 20th century. Titled “Interpreting the Partition through Poetry and Art,” the event will be held on Wednesday, May 20, from 5:30 – 7pm, and features acclaimed visual artist, author, and Partition historian Tanya Momi.
Momi’s presentation draws from her book Daughter of a Refugee: India’s Partition—History, Memory, and Art, inspired by her father’s personal experience during Partition and the memories carried across generations.
“My book is not only about history—it is about lived consequences, memory, and healing,” Momi said. “Through every canvas and every page, I want to preserve stories that must never be forgotten.”
Attendees will hear directly from the artist about her creative process in interpreting historical trauma and view her paintings, many of which have been shown internationally and at the Triton Museum of Art and New Museum Los Gatos (NUMU).
This program is presented in conjunction with the exhibition 10,000 Memories: Partition, Independence, and WWII in South Asia, curated by The 1947 Partition Archive, on display through May 24, 2026.
Admission is $15; free for Museum members. Register at losaltoshistory.org/partitionviapoetryandart.
Los Altos History Museum began in 1977 with the opening of the historic J. Gilbert Smith House, built in 1905 on 14+ acres of apricot orchards planted by Mr. Smith. In 2001, Los Altos History Museum opened the modern building next door, which houses the Museum’s collections, permanent and changing exhibits, store and administrative offices. The Museum and its grounds are available for rent during evenings and weekends. Its collections are owned by the City of Los Altos and are managed by an independent nonprofit organization, whose staff and volunteers are responsible for all programs and operations.
The Museum is open Thursday through Sunday, from noon-4pm. Admission is free. Tours of the J. Gilbert Smith House are available during open hours. The outdoor agricultural exhibit, gardens and picnic area are accessible beyond Museum hours. For more information, visit: losaltoshistory.org, email hello@losaltoshistory.org, or phone 650.948.9427 x14.
Media Contact: Marketing@losaltoshistory.org
Los Altos History Museum: Diane Holcomb, 650.948.9427 x14, dholcomb@losaltoshistory.org
