Institute of Contemporary Art (ICA) North

Our curatorial team works closely with exhibiting artists to present works they may not have the opportunity to show in more traditional spaces. Our community events bring artists together with thinkers across disciplines for lively discussions about of-the-moment topics and their impact on future generations. And our outreach programs guide students through our exhibitions, where our Teaching Artists encourage them to look closely, question, and share their perspectives about what they see.

Open Doors

Admission to our exhibitions and events at Central (Balboa Park) and North (Encinitas) are always complimentary. We offer a safe space for artists to take risks. And our outreach programs bring art directly to students and seniors.

Connect the Dots

Our team of volunteer Engagement Guides are available to chat about whatever elements of our exhibitions interest you the most—whether it’s the artist’s history, how an artwork makes you feel, or a particular detail (a shape, a color, texture). Whatever you’re drawn to! This approach is rooted in Visual Thinking Strategies, an inquiry-based method that encourages individual interpretation of the exhibition. This is the same approach we use when giving school group tours, and when we bring art into classrooms across San Diego County as part of our Valise Program.

Land Acknowledgement

The Institute of Contemporary Art San Diego acknowledges that our Central campus sits on the ancestral homeland of the Kumeyaay Peoples, and our North campus is located on the ancestral land of the Rincon Band of the Lúiseno. We wish to pay our respects to the ancestors, elders, and relatives of the Kumeyaay Nation and Rincon Band of the Lúiseno who have cared for the land on which ICA San Diego resides. As visitors we recognize that their pain and suffering has made it possible for us to be here. We are committed to standing in solidarity by respecting the lands and its people.