Museum of Contemporary Art

Brief Overview

 * "One of the nation's largest facilities devoted to art of our time"
 * Located in the heart of downtown Chicago
 * Has a gift store, bookstore, restaurant, 300-seat theatre, and a terraced sculpture garden

Mission Statement
"The mission of the MCA is to be an innovative and compelling center of contemporary art where the public can directly experience the work and ideas of living artists, and understand the historical, social, and cultural context of the art of our time.

The Museum boldly interweaves exhibitions, performances, collections, and educational programs to excite, challenge, and illuminate our visitors and to provide insight into the creative process.

The MCA aspires to engage a broad and diverse audience, create a sense of community and be a place for contemplation, stimulation, and discussion about contemporary art and culture."

History

 * The museum was originally a building that served as the corporate offices of the Playboy enterprises. In October 1967, the building was officially established as the Museum of Contemporary Art, Chicago.
 * The museum was given its first work “Six Women” by Venezuelan sculptor Marisol in 1968.


 * Roy Lichtenstein, Robert Rauschenberg, and Andy Warhol held solo exhibitions at the MCA in 1970.
 * Lewis Manilow became president in 1976.
 * The MCA reopened with four new galleries.
 * In 1991, the MCA appointed architect Josef Paul Kleihues of Berlin to design the new building for the institution, which was to be constructed in downtown Chicago. The construction was completed in 1996.


 * The new building launched itself in 1996 and the initial building situated in Ontario street was closed down.

Education Programs

 * "Teaching artists lead all school programs. Through interactive dialogue and artistic practice, students and artist guides explore, debate, and reflect upon the important ideas that lie at the heart of contemporary art."
 * Artist-led tours or self-guided tours
 * Creation Lab: a part of the artist-led tour that includes an interactive studio workshop component
 * Resources for educators

Organization
Visual art from 1945 to the present with a strong focus on surrealism, minimalism, conceptual photography, and work by Chicago-based artists. Arranged alphabetically by artist’s last name and range in media from painting, sculpture, and photography to installation and video. Each object is accompanied by an image and a short description.
 * Collections (2,500 permanent works)
 * 3,000 examples in its collection of artists’ books
 * Exhibitions (currently 7 different ones)

Contact Information

 * Closed Mondays, 10AM-8PM Tuesdays, 10AM-5PM Wednesdays-Sundays
 * $12 suggested admission, $7 students and senior citizens
 * Admission free for Illinois residents on Tuesdays
 * 220 East Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL, 60611
 * http://www2.mcachicago.org/