Through its ever-changing exhibitions, the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego brings to light the vibrancy of the city’s residents. The museum is the downtown branch of a larger museum by the same name located in La Jolla. Set within the lofty rooms of the former railway station baggage building, the gallery presents the chance to appreciate first-rate art in an historic environment.
Exhibitions at the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego draw from a catalogue of over 4,700 pieces, which span six decades from the 1950s. They provide a platform for world-famous and emerging artists from the United States and Latin America. Discover installations dedicated to everything from painting and sculpture to photography, video and 3-D works. Delight in a strong focus on conceptualism, minimalism and Pop Art, among other international movements.
Of the many works on display, one of the most striking is Richard Serra’s site-specific Santa Fe Depot. It features six steel blocks of differing sizes that resemble luggage containers lined up beneath the arches of the adjoining station concourse. Admire contributions by recognized artists such as Lewis deSoto, Richard Allen Morris and Rita McBride.
Ask museum staff about current temporary exhibitions. A previous example is Mexico quiero conocerte, in which Graciela Iturbide and Manuel Álvarez Bravo captured the essence of Mexico’s indigenous groups through photography. Bound to the Earth: Art, Materiality, and the Natural World examined the way artists from the 1960s onward portray the natural landscapes around them.
The museum stands at the western edge of the Columbia business district of Downtown San Diego. Get here by catching the trolley to either the America Plaza or Santa Fe Depot stations. Discounted parking is available at One America Plaza get your ticket validated at the museum.
The Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego is open from Thursday to Tuesday and there’s an admission fee. Tickets are valid for unlimited admission for seven days from the day of purchase. Free guided tours take place on weekends.
