In 2016, ICA LA embarked on a $5 million campaign to build a new home in the burgeoning downtown LA Arts District. One year later, ICA LA opened its doors at 1717 East 7th Street to support art that challenges the way we see and experience the world.
ICA LA’s founding patrons have brought the museum to life and made significant contributions to its longevity.
ICA LA’s thirty-year history as the Santa Monica Museum of Art has played a singular role on the global stage. Championing the museum’s distinguished exhibition record, a number of important artists have donated their work in support of the museum’s new building and inaugural programming.
In May 2017, ICA LA held its inaugural Gala Bruncheon honoring acclaimed artist Carrie Mae Weems for her extraordinary accomplishments, including her dual commitment to contemporary art and social justice, which echo the museum’s mission and values.
The event also previewed the museum’s not-yet-opened exhibition space in downtown Los Angeles and toasted our founding patrons and artists. The bruncheon program included a welcome by ICA LA Executive Director, Elsa Longhauser. Ann Temkin, The Marie-Josée and Henry Kravis Chief Curator of Painting and Sculpture at The Museum of Modern Art, New York, will introduce Carrie Mae Weems. A video tribute created by artist Nikita Gale accompanied the presentation.