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January 2024 by Daikon R.
I'll start by saying that this is a nice small venue where they often hold events to meet beloved artists and such. They have a variety of artwork, art books, and trinkets available for purchase and even limited edition items only sold through them. I've been to quite a few nucleus events, and it's a gamble each time whether I will enjoy myself or not due to poor customer service. I remember buying 2 stickers from here one time, and the prices were not labeled on them. When I was wrung up the total came out to about $20 which was DOUBLE when I compared it to the artist's website! And the lady wringing me up had the most stern look and felt very annoyed. I asked her a question about the artists of the stickers and honest to God she made me feel stupid. I understand customer service jobs can get annoying, but when I was shopping, there was absolutely no one in the store. I wasn't fumbling with anything; I just wanted to take a look around. I'm not saying you need to have a smile on your face when wringing me up, but don't bring the vibe of customers being a nuisance to you at the checkout line. As for events, sometimes Nucleus does this thing where they offer posters and a signing from producers, directors, and artists. The one thing that absolutely ANNOYS ME is that at multiple events I have attended with these posters, I have witnessed the manager YANK these posters out of people's hands for the artists to sign and be handed back to the customer. I'm pretty sure it was to speed up the signing process... but what the hell? Dont oversell tickets if you're going to cram us in and try to speed us out. At that point, just have the poster pre-signed?? The whole point of having the poster signed individually is to get a feeling of connection with the artists that inspires you, and i feel like that experience was ripped away from both me and many others. Why have us stand in line waiting for the artist to sign the poster at all?? Whenever he does this at events, it really ruins the whole event for me. Another thing that the manager does, if he doesn't rip the poster from your arms, is that he will HOVER over you like a hawk while you're getting your items signed. I feel like I've seen people talk only a few sentences before Ben starts GLARING darts into their backs... fans will never know peace or enjoyment with their favorite artists if he keeps rushing people. It's annoying and it ruins the experience for fans. Another thing about these events is that YOU WILL GET SLEEPY if the panel lasts for over an hour. This is because the ventilation SUCKS and after an hour of a packed room, there is like... no oxygen... It gets stuffy and they turn on the fans way too late. It becomes difficult to keep your eyes open, even if your favorite artists are right in front of you. It's unfortunate, but because gallery nucleus is literally THE venue for artists and fans to meet, you wont find many other options for amazing events at a reasonable price. It makes it difficult to support nucleus directly and makes me prefer to order works from the artists themselves. I've noticed the newer employees are much nicer and friendlier so if you must, try speaking to them instead. I have no idea if nucleus will change any of their practices, but if they take even a sliver of this critique to heart, it would definitely be for the better.
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October 2023 by Selene A.
They don't accommodate anyone. They're not law enforcement friendly either.. not surprised. They do carry a big variety of items that you can also find on Amazon for cheaper. Whenever they have sign-in events, they're completely chaotic. The website crashes within seconds of opening, it's honestly a show trying to get tickets therefore, I'm just not ever going back again. I've been buying my stuff on Amazon and going to panels where I can meet the artist/creators/producers and have my items signed... there's always comic con or any con you can meet these artists. No need to be degraded at a small venue you're trying to support. No thanks!
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September 2023 by Ricky M.
Nucleus Art Gallery is such a flex and cool art gallery in the heart of Alhambra on Main Street. There's plenty of free parking in the area. The Gallery is quite small, basically, one large room followed by a stairwell (with another gallery space along the walls) leading to a second floor for another gallery space exhibit. So they can hold about 3 different small exhibits, and I have to say I was really impressed with the exhibits! The curation is spot on! I do have to preface that I love art galleries and museums, and this is a stellar gallery. Walking around the area, it's sad to see so many empty spaces for lease. My wish is that the City of Alhambra can work with other nonprofits to create a museum row along Main Street that is of the same caliber as Nucueles, similar to when you go to Chinatown and find a row of various art galleries. Imagine all these empty storefronts turned into various galleries with different types of art and Friday or Saturday nights with art block parties. Just putting it out there. I bet the leases are high, but if the city can work out a contract to turn the area into a bustling art scene, it would be great for the community. Just my two cents and hope it can happen because Nucleus has set such a fantastic model of what more can be done in the area for the arts.
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August 2023 by Andy Wolff
If you're walking around Main Street Alhambra, this is a can't-miss spot.Cute little art store in the front, gallery in the back. The gallery rotates to a different artist every month or so, and I've been very impressed by the artists they've been featuring. They often have anime and Disney themed art. If you miss a month, they sometimes put the leftovers in the room upstairs.I'm not the kind of person who pays hundreds of dollars for art, but they also have stickers and prints and other small items more in my price range.
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August 2023 by Mervin
Great Art Exhibit Place for various kinds of artists that they collaborate with. Been here for the Spiderverse and SSS exhibitions
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August 2023 by Mel Gee
Spiderverse display was awesome! All the artwork & art books were fantastic! I wish I could buy every piece in there!
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July 2023 by Daisuke Y.
If you're a fan of anime style art or hand drawn (+ digital) art, this is your place! They have a lovely rotating gallery area showcasing different artists, If you're a collector, there are plenty of prints and books and other paraphernalia available to purchase. I always visit for new wall art and unique gifts and never come away disappointed.
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July 2023 by Gillian A.
I attended the meet & greet/autograph signing of artist Yusuke Kozaki and I very much appreciated that the staff here were friendly and polite while still maintaining the line for it in an organized fashion (quite refreshing as I've been to many similar events that were frustrating and chaotic). A minor critique though is that I wished that an English-Japanese translator assistant was present because communication with the artist was a little difficult.The establishment regularly includes limited-run exhibits of featured artists (some local and some from afar) as well as a shop section of primarily art books and prints. This place is definitely a must-visit if you're a collector of these items as the majority of them are not sold at major retailers.Check the business website as it's regularly updated with the constant flow of events held here. No-hassle free parking garage within close walking distance along Chapel Ave.
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June 2023 by Shay M.
Nucleus Art Gallery in Alhambra is a hidden gem that showcases the beauty of art in many forms. I had the pleasure of visiting their main exhibit featuring the talented artist Maomomiji, whose artwork focused on delectable Asian foods and their journey of consistent artistry. Additionally, the gallery offers a section dedicated to a wide range of captivating art, anime, and graphic novel books, including Studio Ghibli works and creations by talented local artists.The main exhibit featuring Maomomiji's artwork was a feast for the eyes. The vivid and mouthwatering depictions of Asian foods. The attention to detail was remarkable, making the artwork truly come alive.The gallery's collection of art, anime, and graphic novel books is a haven for enthusiasts and collectors alike. The inclusion of Studio Ghibli works and a variety of smaller local artists showcases the gallery's commitment to providing a diverse and inclusive experience. The selection was extensive, offering something for everyone's taste and allowing visitors to explore different artistic styles and narratives.The ambiance of Nucleus Art Gallery is inviting and conducive to appreciating art. The space is thoughtfully curated, with ample room to browse and admire the artworks. If you have any interest in art, anime, or graphic novels, Nucleus Art Gallery is a must-visit destination in Alhambra.
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June 2023 by Kali R.
Really cute and intimate gallery concept. The shop part of the gallery is super cute and has some great finds!
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June 2023 by Triniecia Harbor
This place is fantastic for art books and have an amazing art gallery to check out sometimes by special guests! This time it's Craig McCracken and his spectacular work over the years in the industry!
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June 2023 by Bart Mec
Great gallery to just walk around and check out art. In a great location that is on main Street with a lot of stores so if you're just in the area walking around you can just walk in and browse. Highly recommend going if you follow certain artists or unique art. Can go online on their website to see what galleries that are being showcased at the moment or in the future.Staff can be kind of quiet though. I asked them about their art prints and they just pointed in a certain direction didn't really feel like I was being helped. A good amount of merchandise to shop from keychains to pins, art books and art prints.
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May 2023 by Rose C.
It was a pleasure visiting Nucleus in Alhambra. I was blown away by the amazing display of art on their walls. The space is large and beautifully designed, and the rows of art pieces at eye level provide a unique and immersive experience for visitors. I was amazed by the incredible skills and creativity of the different arts on display, and I felt like I was transported to different realms of homage and imagination. The staff was friendly and knowledgeable, and they provided great insight into the pieces. I appreciate the effort Nucleus puts into promoting and supporting local artists, and I highly recommend a visit to anyone who appreciates great art. Nucleus is truly a gem in the art community and a must-visit destination for any art enthusiast.
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May 2023 by Minh Quang Đỗ
The first time I buy print by artist internationally is from Gallery Nucleus. There was some small issue happened. But the staffs are super friendly and they did everything they could to help me out. I don't have many experience of buying stuff from USA but Gallery Nucleus does supply excellent service to their customers. The packaging condition is also pretty good. I absolutely recommend people check out this gallery.
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March 2023 by Kyle K.
Awesome staff. Really beautiful artwork and great selection of merchandise. Please support this really spectacular spot!!!