Established:
Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) Chicago was established in 1967.
The art museum exhibits contemporary art and hosts special events such as spoken word, dance performances, music performances, and Friday night cocktail hours.
History:
Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) officially opened in 1967 in a "renovated one-story building at 237 East Ontario Street that had been built as a bakery."
MCA has acquired over 2,500 artworks for its permanent collection.
Mission:
"The mission of the MCA is to be an innovative and compelling center of contemporary art where the public can directly 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 to provide insight into the creative process."
"The MCA aspires to engage a broad and diverse audience, create a sense of community and be a place for contemplation, stimulation, and discussion about contemporary art and culture."
Location:
The Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) Chicago is located in Chicago's Gold Coast neighborhood, one block east of Michigan Avenue. It is easy to access via rail, bus, car, and taxi.
Museum's Conservation Department:
Art conservation is the practice of restoring artworks to their original condition. Often this requires scientific analysis and research by trained specialists to determine the condition of the works and to help prevent further damage to artworks.
When a museum does not have its own art conservation department, it will typically use outside art conservation services.
Famed Artworks in Collection:
The Museum's collection focuses on art made from 1945 to the present and with a special emphasis on Surrealism, Minimalism, and conceptual photography. Also, Chicago-based artists are well-represented in the collection.
"These highlights from the 2,500 objects in the collection are arranged alphabetically by artist’s last name and range in media from painting, sculpture, and photography to installation and video. Each object is accompanied by an image and a short description. Although not represented here, the MCA also has over 3,000 examples in its collection of artists’ books."
"Only a small percentage of collection works are on view at any given time and may be found in any of the museum spaces. These works are often used to create rotating thematic exhibitions."
Noteworthy Facts:
MCA's website contains provocative videos and audios with artists, and other creative spirits.
Art Historical Facts
For his first building wrap in the US, in 1969, Christo wrapped the MCA’s building and galleries with 8,000 square feet of tarpaulin.
Frida Kahlo’s first solo museum exhibition in the United States took place at MCA from January 13 to March 5, 1978.
Also in 1978, Gordon Matta-Clark sawed through the walls and floors of the annex to create the first “exstallation” of the museum's adjacent townhouse.
Employment Information:
Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) Chicago posts job openings on their website, so be sure to check regularly.
Their website says: "Job opportunities will remain posted until positions are filled. Candidates may be contacted for interviews. However, due to the high level of interest in positions, the MCA contacts only a small percentage of applicants."
How to Apply for a Job:
The Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) Chicago advises job applicants to apply online on their website.
How to Apply
To apply for a position send a cover letter and resume in one of the following three ways:
- By mail: Human Resources, Application for (Job Title) Position, Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 East Chicago Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611
- By fax: 312.397.4095
- By email: jobs@mcachicago.org
Museum's Contact Info:
Visitor information:
Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA), 220 E Chicago Avenue, Chicago IL 60611, Tel: 312.280.2660
Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) Chicago website
Museum Hours:
- Monday closed
- Tuesday 10:00–8:00
- Wednesday 10:00–5:00
- Thursday 10:00–5:00
- Friday 10:00–5:00
- Saturday 10:00–5:00
- Sunday 10:00–5:00
