San Jose Institute of Contemporary Art

General information

The ICA was founded in 1980 by a group of local artists who wanted to present cutting-edge, innovative art and experimental work in a curated space. Their goal was to get out in front of traditional museum programming and to present the newest work being created in the region. Today, we remain dedicated to that vision. The mission of the ICA is to encourage creativity by presenting and interpreting thought-provoking contemporary art to a diverse audience. We are uniquely positioned between the area’s large museums and smaller galleries, which allows us to present the work of established regional artists, while also offering exhibition opportunities for emerging and under-recognized mid-career artists. Admission is free. Donations welcomed.

Each year the ICA presents 10 – 12 visual art exhibitions in our three galleries that feature drawing, painting, printmaking, sculpture, photography, and digital works addressing a range of subjects and themes.The ICA Lounge is a contemporary art library located at the entrance of the gallery that provides access to materials that directly complement our exhibitions and programs, including international art journals, exhibition catalogs, artists’ monographs, and multimedia education resources. The Lounge also features video interviews with exhibiting artists, as well as recorded footage of ICA workshops and discussions. Our educational programming includes Talking Art panel discussions, outstanding printed and web-based exhibition didactics, publications, free exhibition tours and excursions, as well as artist studio and gallery visits and field trips offered as exclusive membership benefits.