Institute of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles

The Institute of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles (ICA LA), formerly known as the Santa Monica Museum of Art (SMMoA), is a modern art museum. It operates independently and does not have a permanent collection; instead, it showcases the artworks of contemporary artists from the local, national, and international art scenes. Up until May 2015, the museum was situated at the Bergamot Station Arts Center in Santa Monica.

The Institute serves as a hub for artistic experimentation and the development of innovative ideas. Its renovated industrial building, spanning 12,700 square feet, was designed by the wHY Architecture team under the direction of Kulapat Yantrasast. This space provides ample room for exhibitions, public events, temporary retail shops, administrative offices, and special projects.

The mission of ICA LA is to support art that encourages a sense of discovery and challenges our perceptions and experiences of the world. The institution is dedicated to breaking down barriers related to race, class, gender, and culture, making contemporary art inclusive and accessible to all.

The museum is easy to spot, housed in a charming yellow building located in the somewhat less polished southern area of the Arts District. Unlike some newer museums, ICA LA offers a cozier and more laid-back atmosphere. When you enter, you'll find a welcoming desk on one side and an arts and crafts area on the other. The museum has one primary exhibition space and a smaller side exhibition area.

In addition to its outstanding contemporary art displays, the venue boasts a stylish interior, complete with eye-catching pink bathrooms. They also have an impressive bookstore stocked with a variety of interesting literature. Best of all, admission is free.