Contemporary Arts Center, New Orleans

The 23 Best Things to Do in New Orleans

"The Contemporary Arts Center, housed in a large redbrick building that stands out in the relatively muted Central Business District, is one of the city’s most prestigious spaces for the full gamut of contemporary arts, including painting, film, theater, and music. Exhibits, which rotate every four to eight weeks, can include any visual art form, from photography to sculpture and painting. The featured works are well-curated—sometimes around themes, sometimes around individual contemporary artists. Pieces are often installed in a creative way that makes use of the interior architecture." - Paul Oswell

Contemporary Arts Center

"Start from the top. What's this place all about?The Contemporary Arts Center, housed in a large redbrick building that stands out in the relatively muted Central Business District, is one of the city’s most prestigious spaces for the full gamut of contemporary arts, including painting, film, theater, and music. It aims to reach as wide a spectrum of the public as possible. Admission is $10 for adults. What's the space itself like?The space has an industrial warehouse aesthetic, with lots of natural light. Exhibits take over four galleries on three floors, all of which are visible from the lobby. It feels uncrowded; despite the exposed brickwork, the acoustics are intimate. And how about the art?Exhibits, which rotate every four to eight weeks, can include any visual art form, from photography to sculpture and painting. The featured works are well-curated—sometimes around themes, sometimes around individual contemporary artists. Pieces are often installed in a creative way that makes use of the interior architecture. Will the staff members help us navigate the space?Staff is young and enthusiastic, but will leave you to roam on your own. Who do you think will get the most out of this gallery?Traditionalists may not take to all of the work here, but CAC will appeal to fans of cutting-edge and avant-garde art." - Paul Oswell

"Cutting edge art exhibits not to be missed Art enthusiasts visiting New Orleans should consider a stop at the Contemporary Arts Center (CAC) in the Warehouse Arts District, just a short walk from the Ogden Museum of Southern Art and "Gallery Row" on Julia Street. Started in 1976 as an artist run community organization, the CAC now hosts contemporary art exhibits, visual arts performances and concerts. The building interior, inside a renovated warehouse, is as visually interesting as the cutting-edge art on display in the galleries. The galleries are open from 11 am to 5 pm, Wednesday through Monday. The cafe and art and design bookstore are open every day."