The Institute of Contemporary Art San Francisco opened in 2022 with a unique promise to keep admission free for their galleries. The ICA is a non-collecting museum featuring works from around the world, open to public view. Now, just two short years after opening its space in Dogpatch, the institute has made a major move to a historic downtown structure called The Cube.
The art museum moved to the new space through a partnership with Vornado Realty Trust. The Cube, accurately named for its striking appearance, was first built in 1971 as Bank of America’s flagship location. Now, the ICA can put the space to good use by covering its unique spaces with contemporary art.
Current exhibitions at the ICA are expansive in their explorations. The Poetics of Dimensions is on display through February, with a curated exhibition of works made from unconventional materials like durags, shoelaces, single-use plastic, and more. A site-specific installation by artist Maryam Yousif features ceramics and mixed media in the exhibition titled Riverbend. Finally, the museum is hosting a spotlight on Kathleen Ryan’s striking sculptures through February 2025.
The ICA has a packed calendar full of community events, with film screenings, performances, and more. Later this December, you can look forward to a holiday market and party that will feature local makers such as Adobe Books, Cherub Dream records & cassettes, and many more. Live music, printmaking, and a photo booth will also be featured at the festive celebration from 4 to 7 pm on December 19.
Inspired by The Poetics of Dimensions, the Makers Studio is an interactive creative space for kids of all ages. Available during all open hours, the space provides paper and weaving materials for kids to create their own unique work.
The Institute of Contemporary Art SF is located at 345 Montgomery Street and is open 11 am to 5 pm Wednesdays through Sundays and until 7 pm on Thursdays. Admission to the museum is always free, so it’s the perfect activity for a rainy day when you’re on a budget.