Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego

I am pleased to share with the MCASD community that on November 19, 2024, the San Diego City Council approved the transfer of property ownership for 1100 Kettner Boulevard in downtown San Diego from the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego (MCASD) to University of California San Diego, marking a key milestone in a collaboration that envisions a major cultural center in downtown San Diego. Our agreement with the city clearly states that any new owner must use the space for cultural purposes and the University has agreed to do just that.

As caretakers of art, all large-scale artworks sited downtown will remain on view as part of MCASD’s collection, and the Museum will ensure that they will be preserved and maintained appropriately. UCSD will assume the ownership, repair and operation of the lighted Jenny Holzer sculpture which is permanently affixed to the exterior of the building. Both parties prioritize making these important works of the Museum’s collection accessible as part of Downtown’s cultural offerings.

We remain committed to being an integral part of San Diego's cultural fabric. The Museum has proven its ability to meet organizations on-site, as well as virtually, without having to maintain multiple operations. From our long-standing school partnerships to the more recent program, Reflections, for older adults, MCASD will continue to partner with organizations across the region, off-site as well as in La Jolla.

We are excited to continue our focus on providing enriching art experiences at our expanded coastal location in La Jolla. This shift allows us to better serve our community and fulfill our mission to invite all audiences to experience our world, our region, and ourselves through the prism of contemporary art.

We appreciate all your support as we navigate this newest turning point in our long history of serving our community.