About

The MCA is one of the world’s largest museums dedicated to contemporary art. Here, the public can experience the work and ideas of living artists and understand the historical, social, and cultural context of the art of our time.
The front of a modern grey building neon lights spelling on MCA at the two ends. A wide staircase leads up to four floors of windows.

A museum of contemporary art is different from the general art museum where the values of the past are enshrined. Instead it is a place where new ideas are shown and tested.

—Essay by MCA founders, “From Dream to Reality,” 1966

Since our inception in 1967, it has been our mission to exhibit new and experimental work in all media, paired with ambitious learning programs. In 1974, the MCA expanded its mission to include collecting and preserving contemporary art for future generations with the inauguration of a collection that has grown to include more than 2,000 works.

The MCA engages audiences of today and tomorrow, working closely with our community to create space for dialogue, learning, and growth. Learn more about who we are, the museum’s commitments, and our Community Partnerships and Engagement program.

Vision Statement

Guided by artists, the MCA brings people together with the profound art of our time. We present and collect contemporary art to cultivate new ways of seeing, ignite transformative experiences, and forge human connections. Our museum amplifies art as a call to action.

Mission Statement

The MCA is an innovative and compelling center of contemporary art where the public can 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 offer insight into the creative process.

The MCA engages diverse audiences and creates a sense of community by providing a place to contemplate and discuss contemporary art and culture and issues of our day.

Current Exhibitions

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Funding

The Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago is a nonprofit, tax-exempt organization accredited by the American Alliance of Museums. The museum is generously supported by its Board of Trustees; individual and corporate members; private and corporate foundations; and government agencies. The MCA acknowledges support from the Illinois Arts Council.

Free admission for anyone 18 and under is generously provided by the Lefkofsky Free 18 & Under Fund.

The MCA is a proud member of Museums in the Park and receives major support from the Chicago Park District.