Argus Gallery
The Argus Gallery is home to a variety of temporary exhibits and offers an ever evolving home for art, history, natural science, and photography.
Current Exhibits
When Camelot Came to the Desert: President Kennedy's Visit to China Lake
This exhibit features original newspaper covers and rare photographs capturing President John F. Kennedy’s 1963 visit to Ridgecrest and the Naval Ordnance Test Station at China Lake. The images document a remarkable day when the President’s motorcade drew thousands of excited residents, local officials, and Navy personnel—transforming the quiet desert community into a scene of national attention.
From newspaper headlines proclaiming “Thousands Welcome President Kennedy” to vivid shots of the President greeting crowds and thanking test pilots for an air show demonstration, these pieces preserve a defining moment in both local and Cold War history. Kennedy’s visit highlighted China Lake’s vital role in U.S. defense innovation and left an enduring mark on the people who witnessed it.
Previous Exhibits
Out of the Past
WILD LIFE IN MY BACKYARD
Photographer Michael Walsten highlights local animals seen in his backyard with his stunning close-ups of various wildlife that lives in this desert environment. From insects to mammals, Walsten has patiently captured these animals as they move about on their daily routine for survival. By looking at these photographs, one can see the variety of feather patterns on the California quail, the details of the head of a dragonfly and the scales on the face of an iguana lizard. This exhibit is definitely well worth a close-up look!
Faces of Southeast Asia
In 2019, local photographer Dave Kurdeka exhibited photographs from his many travels to Southeast Asia. Dave is drawn to the region’s extraordinary scenery and the colorful culture. Dave captures the region’s remarkable cultural richness showing ethnic people wearing unique and colorful clothing. His photographs are quite intriguing and draw you in to study the faces, the clothing and scenes of this region.
Women’s Auxiliary of the Commissioned Officers Mess (WACOM)
WACOM, a local social and service organization was founded in 1945 by Mrs. Sherman E. (Kay) Burroughs. The women of the “Auxiliary” as it was called in the early days, wanted to create an organization for both military wives and wives of scientists and researchers working at China Lake. This organization took the place of the “Officers’ Wives’ Club” usually found on Navy installations and the “Faculty Wives Club”, a club for wives for male faculty members. In this case, the “Faculty Wives Club” was for women whose college educated husbands came to China Lake to carry on the research mission. The women felt that the organization provided a way for civilian and military wives to get to know each other and work together for the good of the community. They took their community service seriously and provided many opportunities for social gatherings and community service. Over 70 years later, WACOM still provides camaraderie, community service, and raises money to support the Navy Relief Fund, local charities, and non-profits.
