Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego

We at the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego are incredibly saddened to announce the passing of Carolyn Peck Farris. She was a steadfast champion of the arts and a longtime supporter of MCASD.

For nearly fifty years, Mrs. Farris’ dedicated involvement and gracious demeanor sustained and enhanced our Museum. Mrs. Farris embodied excellence, bringing discernment and integrity to all matters, from her art collecting to her philanthropy. She helped set the standard for MCASD’s Board of Trustees that she joined in 1978. Mrs. Farris led the Museum as President from 1993 to 1996; she was a Chair for the 21st Century Campaign and served on the Architectural Selection Committee for the 75th Anniversary Campaign. Her philanthropy was generous and discreet, thoughtfully arriving when most needed. The Carolyn P. Farris Wing in our recently remodeled La Jolla flagship location was named in honor of her generosity.

She recognized the wholeness of the Museum, quietly supporting operations while boldly defining the very identity of the Museum through gifts of art. Donations from Mrs. Farris include MCASD’s most celebrated paintings and sculptures by Ellsworth Kelly, Helen Frankenthaler, Robert Irwin, and Jasper Johns, among others.  

We share great sadness with the San Diego arts community and all who benefited from her spirit of philanthropy at the news of her loss. She will be deeply missed by us all.

Kathryn Kanjo
David C. Copley Director and CEO
Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego