Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art

This was such a nice little contemporary arts museum! I know many people were saying how they thought this was really small, but I personally think it’s perfect that it is. Sometimes when you don’t want to spend hours in a museum, at least there’s this option and if you really enjoy art and love reading about each one, that alone takes time and adds more to the museum. The contemporary arts exhibits were sooo good! I really enjoyed seeing this one installation with lights and a symphony of music playing in waves with them, and that the current exhibits had some southwestern feel to it. They change it up every few months or so, of course. Workers were extremely nice and loved explaining some artwork in depth, if you want it. There’s also a little gift shop. Thursdays is a good day to come if you want to do the “Pay as you wish”.

When we visited, two halls were being reinstalled, so we only saw a reduced exhibit. That was good enough, though the outdoor one was disappointing: it is to be seen during sunset or sunrise, not an obvious time to visit a museum.

It's a small venue with 4 or 5 exhibits going at the same time. Walked through will take about an 1 hr depending on how much time you spend at each peice. It is a nice indoor retreat from the summer heat. I suggest checking for their free times or if you are part of your local library. See if you can snag a culture pass for free entrance for the adults.

I thoroughly enjoyed my visit to this museum! Despite its intimate size, the art collection is impressive and thoughtfully curated. The museum's prime location in the heart of Old Town makes it easily accessible and a great addition to any day spent exploring the area. I visited on a Sunday and was pleased to find that it wasn't overly crowded, allowing me to navigate the exhibits at my own pace and take in the artwork without feeling rushed. The relaxed atmosphere and manageable crowds made for a truly enjoyable experience. I highly recommend a visit to this hidden gem, especially if you're looking for a cultural escape in the midst of Old Town's charm.

Exhibits were not especially strong and museum was small. Tiny gift shop with some nice items. Go on Thursdays when it's free.

I love this museum! While on the smaller side there are always wonderful exhibits, especially the interactive ones.I enjoy the attached patio with the mural, plants and natural light sky opening. Very relaxing!

Visited a couple times now, I like how the exhibits change every few months. Interactive rooms, friendly staff, lots to see! Parking structure next door, lots of restaurants and shops nearby. Would recommend a visit.

Very impressed with what was on display here. I only wish there was more to see. Definitely recommend visiting on Thursdays as admission is free but be sure to book online.

Smoca has really interesting contemporary art exhibits , that can be interactive and visual. Admission is not that expensive but they do have free days. It's in the Scottsdale mall in Oldtown Scottsdale across the theater. Their gift shop has some interesting items, along some touristy items. They change their exhibits regularly.

We visited the SMoCA on a Thursday afternoon in early January. We didn't really know anything about it prior to visiting so we didn't have any idea what to expect. The selection and genres of contemporary art on display were both thought-provoking and tantalizing. We are both very artistic and share many likes and dislikes. I think the biggest disappointment was the limited museum space. The gallery consisted of a half dozen exhibit rooms, then included many typical contemporary art forms, and some more fringe forms of art. One area that was mostly enclosed, had a parental advisory. I took a quick look and and immediately recognized it as a well known filmed exhibit from the middle of last century. Our whole visit lasted a little less than an hour, and had we paid full price. I would have been disappointed however we had received passes from the Mesa library. They offer a limited number of passes to various museums and venues throughout the valley to cardholders. What passes we would definitely visit again in the future to see any new exhibits, but I do not feel the exhibits warrant the current ticket prices. I love art and definitely support local artists, but I feel there should've been more.

They have some interesting exhibits, but it was pretty small. If you're already in the neighborhood, it's probably a good option to stop by. I came from one of the resorts further away, and I didn't really feel like it was worth the trip.

Nice museum that is small and offers a unique art scene. We were able to get through the 4 rooms they had in under an hour. It made for an easy afternoon trip.

A delightful celebration applauding the creative minds at the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art, marking 25 years of artistic brilliance. As an avid art lover and fellow creator, I'm captivated by how art effortlessly transcends language, weaving meaningful connections among us. The hors-devours were delicious, the bartenders were engaging, and DJ J-Me Lee did her thing on the 1s and 2s! Here's to you, SMoCA --cheers for skillfully fostering community through the enchanting tapestry of art!

This is a very very small museum. I'm glad this was a free visit and I didn't have to pay money for it. I was in and out in about 20-30 minutes. There were more interesting things at the Civic Center outside. To tip: get a library card and get free tickets to go

I have been going to this wonderful, small, modern art museum for over a decade now. Admitly, I liked it more when they had some of the more visually exciting exhibits. Several of the more interesting works of art found their way to Wonderspaces at the nearby Fashion Square Mall when that opened. Outside the buildings architecture itself, there are no permanent exhibits. So, my enjoyment of this museum varies based on the modern art exhibits they have on display at the times I have gone. That being said, the last exhibit that I felt was a must-see was the light&sound balls that was a tie-in to the one at Canal Convergence in the Fall of 2019. I enjoy the art exhibited here every time I have gone, but would enjoy if they chose to bring in at least one visually exciting, must see exhibits a year.

Super awesome contemporary art museum with a focus on social issues and social justice! It was well worth it for the $7 admission price (this is for student discount, the general admission price for adults is $10). I would recommend purchasing tickets online beforehand as it costs $2 extra to purchase tickets in person. There is a parking structure next to the museum that you can park at for free. They have about 3-4 exhibits here all focused on shedding light on social problems and human rights. Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed the experience and would definitely come back next time they have new exhibits.

Very intimate museum and I enjoyed celebrating the 25 year anniversary. I love the local artists and exhibitions.

Summer is our museum expeditions time of the year. In Arizona, especially the Valley of the Sun, el sol gets pretty darn hot so one scampers towards activities that are mostly indoors and undercover, so Museums, Art Exhibits, Galleries and other indoor events are the natural solution to our annual dilemma. This week we decided on a museum, especially one we had not had the opportunity of previously visiting, the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art (fondly known as SMoCa). I was fascinated with its mission to show design, modern works of art as well as architecture within the spacious confines of its four galleries. Although a relatively small museum is set up and layout is nicely created. We were glad we could experience the art and styles of Carolina Anibar-Fernadez: Oleaje and Dorothy Fratt's: Color Mirage exciting and poignant exhibits during our visit. The Roelof Knol: the space in between and his paper shape optical and visual art was fanciful and intriguing. Before we left, we stopped off at their shop. Their gift shop, although not huge, has some very interesting and unique items to offer, we obviously purchased an artistic yet functional and decorative art set. SMoCa is not only a great place to come in and cool off, but it will enlighten the senses, open your curiosity and inspire you to seek more, more art, and spur the imagination. Kudos to the staff and volunteers.

Great small museum. I will say extremely hard to find parking the day we went at least and place is right next to the performing arts building so make sure you don't accidentally walk into the performing arts building instead of the contemporary arts.

If it has a gallery that looks interesting check it out, it's only $10 and the area has some nice stuff and looks like it could be a great spot. It is very small, maybe :30 to see it all. Todays exhibit had my interest "art of miscommunication" but it ended up just being a pretty political, left leaning, but certainly lots of miscommunication? ‍ Looks like they have some cool stuff at times so I won't never go but not a quick go to. If you do go, go on one of their free days. I do think the area has a ton of potential and I'd call it a laid back old town.

Went their to get out of the heat and had a great time! Favorite exhibit was Dorothy Fratt: Color Mirage: This exhibition features works by the prolific yet underrecognized American painter Dorothy Fratt (1923-2017). It's the first major U.S. museum exhibition dedicated to her art. We are lucky to be the initial showing! Other exhibits are worthwhile also. The gift shop is small, but you can find some fun things. Also don't miss the additional gift shop next door at the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts building. Super fun and definitely worth a look. Parking is really convenient and free.

We really enjoyed our visit to SMoCA. The museum is small but mighty and had an incredible and diverse showing. We were particularly amused by the current exhibit, Mimi O Chun: It's all cake. Her soft sculptures are insanely impressive and the works' descriptions are equal parts hilarious and disturbing as they reflect the reality of our society right now. It was also really great to see the Forever Becoming: Young Phoenix Artists exhibition. I liked the variety of artwork mediums and was especially drawn to the ASMR by Steffi Faircloth. The spaces were easy to navigate, and the docents were all lovely and excited to share in the love of the art. All in all, SMoCA made for a very pleasant afternoon date activity.

It looks small on the outside, but inside the exhibits are laid out beautifully. It was my first time at a contemporary art museum. The staff are friendly & knowledgeable. The restroom was very clean. They have a cute gift shop. There was also an "interactive" section where you could create your own self portrait. Very cute. I can't wait to go back to see the next exhibit.

Pay what you want day! Wonderful time with my twenty something adult kids! Always Interesting and as you much to think about. Don't forget the courtyard spin chairs and egg shape sky room

This 'museum' really should be more transparent. Only one exhibit was open in January. I thought January was peak season in Scottsdale. Anyways good thing entry is by donation only.

I really enjoyed this! Less spendy than most museums in the area, and we ended up going on pay what you will Thursday. The exhibits are varied and they space out the art very well. The descriptions were enough for anyone to grasp and enjoy. Very cool place, would come again and again.

Small but mighty. We made reservations (early December 2021, Covid times, they recommended timed reservations be made via their website) for a mid-day in the middle of the week. Conveniently, we chose a day that is cost-free/pay-what-you-wish for visitors, so I left a small donation in their wall collection. Normal admission is $10 for non-members ($12 for walk-ups). I must be honest and say if I had needed to pay that much for this particular museum...I might have been cranky about it. We were there for less than an hour, and we liked what we saw, but I think $5 would have been my top pleased-to-be-here price for the exhibits that were currently on display. I quite enjoy modern and contemporary art and you best believe this is a place you can find it. It turns out we were actually running a bit early from our previous engagement, so we called and asked if it was possible to come before our allotted time and thankfully, they were able to allow this. Again, we had a lovely time. And if you can go on a pay-what-you-want day and drop 'em $5 each....do that. Otherwise, certainly see what their exhibits are and if they happen to be worth it.

Beverly McIver's wonderful exhibit of contemporary art portraying her authentic self . Best known for he self portraits that reflect various aspects of the artist life. McIver's: Full Circle is a look at the human condition running the gamut of emotions it is a triumph to behold and uplifting. Please support the Arts in the Valley.

A small but enjoyable Modern Art Museum in downtown Scottsdale. I am visiting family in town from Los Angeles and had missed seeing this museum before for some reason. I'm very glad that I got a chance to stop in today and see the exhibits. Their feature artist currently is Beverly McIver, but they also have other exhibits with different artists. The staff was also polite and attentive and parking is easy and plentiful with a parking garage right next to it. I give 4 stars only due to the size and selection not the quality. I would recommend to any fan of museums or Modern Art.

Great little museum in Old Town Scottsdale. I've been here a number of times and they always have interesting exhibits. The museum is four gallery spaces but it seems like they usually have three exhibits up at any time and the fourth room is usually setup with a cash bar during events. The Turrell skyspace (immediate left through the doors and all the way back once you walk in the entrance) is always a great spot to sit and contemplate for a few minutes.

Stopped by on Saturday evening for a small date night. We had both never been in so we were excited to see what it was all about. We were quickly greeted as we signed in. The front desk girl was really friendly and gave us the 411. We had about an hour to roam around since they did close at 8pm. We quickly noticed how small it was. On this night there were only three exhibits. Most of them were really cool and a bunch of them you can interact with which was also cool. We finished in 30 minutes and then walked to the gift shop. The gift shop had slot of cute items. Overall we enjoyed looking around but I don't see myself coming back anytime soon... The employees were friendly and very informative.

Luckily we went on a Thursday which meant free admission. We spent less than 30 minutes wandering through the exhibits and the gift shop. Unfortunately, not one exhibit was even remotely interesting to us. I did not realize that this museum does not have a permanent collection of art. The docents were very friendly and helpful and the adjacent parking garage was free. Maybe better exhibits are coming?

Recommendation: go on Thursdays when it's free (or second Saturday's)! It's hard to spend significant time at SMoCA because there are only about five relatively small rooms; i.e. not worth the $10 admission fee. When I visited, they hosted the Infinity Room (3 minutes per visit, mirrors all around with a light show), Wobbly Chairs (that didn't fall over), Metal Bar Art, String-ish Art, and 3D art. Great exhibits, but not worth the cost on Tu-W, F-Su.

Cute museum. We had culture passes from the library which means free admission for two. We parked in the garage next to here and walked in the gift shop entrance. The gal gave us timed admission passes for the Infinity Room (excellent exhibit by Refik Anadol) for 1pm, and my friend and I entered with two other gals. We had to wear shoe covers and got a brief rundown from one of the museum workers about what to expect. We laid down inside and it was all mirrors, so cool! The visuals changed and there was calming music playing. The whole experience lasted about 5-10 minutes maximum and it was a bit jarring when the door opened to let us out. I read that this particular exhibit could be a wait depending on how many folks are here so thankfully we came at a good time and didn't have to wait at all. We checked out the other exhibits including Wild Thing and Situations by Lydia Okumura. I loved the animal art, such a wide array of mediums and styles. It doesn't take too long to explore this small but worthwhile museum and it's a nice activity to add to a day in Old Town Scottsdale.

I typically don't write reviews for museums otherwise I'd find myself writing an essay. The museum is rather small compared to those of NYC and you'll find yourself done viewing it in about 30-45 minutes. I went in on a free day which was great because of only the 4 exhibits available only 2 were opened for viewing. I will add that the gift shop here was pretty nice and filled with gadgets and small items I haven't seen anywhere else. I'd recommend you visit this museum on one of its free/reduced days!

I never knew this existed. This is funny because I go to the theater next door and also drive on this street all the time, but I just never noticed it. Once you park in the garage, you walk through the alley like you are going to the theater, and then turn right and there's the museum. When I arrived, the person checking me in gave me a brief history/overview of the museum and its connections and then told me all the available exhibits and how it should be seen. Right now, the main exhibit is Beverly Mclver. Honestly, I'm not a huge fan of clowns and the whole "black face" made me think I wouldn't like this exhibit much, but I was pleasantly surprised. I liked the layout. I liked her story. I liked the colors. I enjoyed it much more than I thought and would recommend it. It is a very small museum so you will not get overwhelmed--easy in and out. They have bathrooms and water fountain though I didn't use it. There's also a gift shop. I'd definitely go again for a quick 30 minutes walk through when the exhibit changes.

Was really disappointed in what this museum had to offer. I really love supporting the arts but the art on display was all the same, one-sided, depressing message. I would have loved to see art from all different perspectives. And honestly, some more creativity as opposed to all just political rants. I hope there will be change in the future so I will want to return ‍

Contemporary is really my favorite kind of art to go see so the last time I was in Scottsdale, I really wanted to check out this museum. We didn't spend a lot of time there as it is a smaller museum, but were still able to see everything, There were some very interesting exhibits and they had some other things coming up that looked really good too. If I get back to the area, I will probably check it out again.

FREE! FREE! FREE! I came here this weekend and went there on a Saturday night, it is free after 5pm on Saturday! The parking structure is free for 3 hours too! The whole place was free, although pretty small. I would say it would take about 30 minutes to go through the whole place. There are 4 different galleries to check out and a theater with a spinny chair!

"Museum Day Live! is an annual celebration of boundless curiosity hosted by Smithsonian magazine. Participating museums and cultural institutions across the country provide entry to anyone presenting a Museum Day Live! ticket." We came here on Museum Day Live and had a great time here at this small museum. We managed to catch Squidsoup's "Ocean of Light: Submergence" one day before they were about to close the exhibit. Wow, what an experience! I think we stayed for three whole intervals to get the whole experience. We first stood around the outside for one interval, then we walked around the outer parts of the lights for the second, and lastly we stood at the very center of it. It's a really trippy experience. It was pretty overwhelming! We also got to view the "[dis]functional: Products of Conceptual Design" exhibit. There was a chair covered in gum, two rose plants syncing and falling out of sync while being dipped in water, a dollhouse, an empty box, et cetera. We enjoyed studying all the art pieces and drawing our own thoughts about it. There was another room off to the side where more great artwork was hung on display for you to gander, a lounge for you to sit and spin in cleverly designed chairs, and there was even a gift shop for you to purchase some items. Although this museum is definitely on the smaller side, it's a great place to spend an hour or two. Admission is $10 for adults and $7 for students. They also have days where admission is free. Don't bring your backpack or any beverages as you will have to leave them up front.

SMoCA's current special exhibition, Ocean of Light: Submergence is amazing! We came here Saturday evening a little before 5 and parked in the garage right behind Los Olivos on Wells Fargo Ave. The exhibit is interactive and consists of multiple strings of lights that change color and pattern for a total of 12 minutes before looping back to the original configuration. I love how your perception of the art at each moment is different depending on where you stand, and loved the 3D aspect of it. The different light patterns also challenge your notions of dimensions of space as some configurations make it seem like the lights go on forever, especially if you are standing or walking in the installation. The rest of the museum is smallish but has some intriguing art on display, including work from artists such as Grant Wood, Keith Haring, Alexander Calder, and William Wegman. There is also a James Turrell installation in a separate outdoor patio area. Everyone working here was very friendly and the gift shop has a lot of cool items for sale. Definitely check out the exhibit before it leaves the museum! Details: -Current exhibition is Ocean of Light: Submergence- A Squidsoup Project -On exhibit until Sept. 24, 2017 -SMoCA Free Admission all day Thursday, and after 5 P.M. Fridays and Saturdays -Regular admission $10 adults, $7 students -Closest parking garage is on Wells Fargo Ave. behind Los Olivos

I went to this "art museum" yesterday and was completely disappointed in what they consider to be "art". Taking a one-sided political viewpoint and trashing all other viewpoints is not art. That is called indoctrination, or demanding that a group accept a set of beliefs uncritically. Do not waste your money on this "art museum" but go next door to see the true works of art in the gallery within the performing arts center. They even allow you to select from a variety of cards that express your emotions about the art pieces to post right next to the piece.

Ugly, depressing rubbish claiming to be art. Of course, the vast majority of contemporary art is not exactly uplifting for humanity. In my view, the main purpose of art is to raise your spirits. If, instead, you see clumsy, inept dreck, I just don't think this is uplifting. I am an art lover, and love art museums just for being there. But they do have to provide something attractive to focus on. By and large, I think Art Nouveau was the last art style which strived to be uplifting, and certainly Symbolism, which just preceded it, was uplifting and wonderful. There is some great, uplifting contemporary art, e.g., Judy Chicago, or Jeff Koons. But most of it seems like stuff made by people who have no skills or talent. Or else they are irate about being oppressed. Well, your reality will track your frame of mind. If you moan about being oppressed, you will never crawl out and see sunshine. Not in my world, thank you. The only reason I am giving them 2 stars, instead of 1, is that it's a nice building and in a wonderful location. In the summer heat, it may be a place to pop into to cool off.

It's my favorite museum in the valley. Always memorable and fun. Gift shop is a go-to for the person who has everything...

Wasn't much to look at. Since it was free I can't complain much but it only took me 10 mins to view the art. Maybe they were revamping. The little shop had a ton of cute and cool retro stuff to buy. The outside sitting area was really cool. Overall it's ok but don't go out of your way to visit.

The museum exhibits are usually interesting. If you're lucky to take a docent tour it's quite helpful because the back story and thoughts behind the works of art help explain what you'll see. The building is small and one can easily spend between an hour or two here. Parking in the garage behind the building is easy, covered ( in Az sun, a big deal)and free. It is part of a plaza which is also worth the walk around to see outdoor sculptures. The gift shop contains some unique items. Thursday from noon - 9 pm is free and Friday nights 6-9.

SMoCA is free on Thursdays and after 5pm on Fridays and Saturdays. We got there 30 minutes before closing, and I definitely felt like I had seen it all (although I wouldn't have minded spending a little more time there, particularly in the ocean of lights. I mean WOW.) The staff was nice, helping us get the most out of the exhibits, and also patient and kind. The permanent exhibit Knight Rise was also super cool, with a hole to the sky. I am definitely looking forward to coming back another time at sunset or when there's more stars out, and excited for the next rotating exhibit.

SMoCA, kind of a modern art museum. Other than the exhibition (by paid or free admission depending on the schedule), the open area was also full or attractions. Photographers would come to the skyspace with an elliptical opening at the ceiling, casting a heightened awareness of light and blue sky. In May (2021.05.06 when we visited), the light was perfect between 2 PM - 4 PM. Other season or time may vary. Pay attention to open hours info. Or ask the reception for open event time.

If you haven't been to SMOCA lately, go right now! The museum is small but always hosts some pretty incredible artists. I went last week on a free Culture Pass (compliments of my local library). Here is what was showing: Wild Thing: Adventures with the Permanent Collection - I love all things animals and especially dogs. This is a great collection. Lydia Okumura: Situations - Her works spans from 1971 through today and had mesh sculptures and string installments. Refik Anadol: Infinity Room - WOW, just wow. To quote "The work is as experiential as it is thought provoking; the resulting experiment invites viewers to question their own perception of place and self." (see my pictures, this installation was so cool I went multiple times). Pro Tip - Thursday's are free!

Love a pit stop here. Check their website for free days and discounted days for students. Exhibits change more often than Phx art museum so it's always something fresh to see and hands on exhibitions as well. Budget friendly, small worth an hour or two trip! And check back if if you aren't feeling the current exhibit, don't forget that part themes vary a lot between them.

So....my daughter was in town and we were looking for something unique to do. This museum only housed three exhibits while we were there, however, it was the perfect amount of time to spend looking at unique installations. We were impressed with the staff and the attention to the safety of the exhibit pieces (lots of 3D and walk through art which is delicate). By the way parking in the city garage (right next door) - FREE Entrance late on Thursdays - FREE Laughter in the spinning exhibit - FREE Great asset to the Scottsdale Scene!

5 Star Light Show, 3 Star Art Show The Light Room is really cool. Light ambient sounds combined with a changing show of lights ranging from rain dropping and light waves shooting around the dark room. Definitely the reason to visit here. I get confused about the definition of art when I look at squares of Velveeta Cheese on a piece of plywood, gum all over a chair or hats hanging on a wall. Other than that, this is an hour or so stop and then off to new things.

My second time coming here! It's free on Thursday's and free after 5pm on Fridays and Saturdays. So you can spend as much time as you want or little time. It is a bit smaller than the other museums in Phoenix. A lot of hipsters always taking pictures including myself hehehehe. Just kidding. But they have really cool contemporary art. The current exhibit they have now is the Ocean of Lights. Warning: since it's free all day on Thursday's, the museum might be packed..

SMoCA's special exhibition caught my attention. The Light Room has lights hanging from the ceiling that change colors wit the music. Great for photos, a bit difficult to get good lighting. But its definitely worth checking out. Free admission all day Thursday. I'm sure it would be really packed, unless you like that kind of crowd. There was another room with a whole bunch of different colors and other exhibits to check out.

I love this tiny little museum. First of all, let me say it's a shame I rarely come by because apparently it's only about once a year. Last year at about this time, they had Phoenix street artists deck the whole place out with local graff. The artists had a Q&A about graffiti and how they got into it and how it's received. I geeked out a bit. Okay, so I geeked out a lot. This year, I visited for Ocean of Light: Submergence. An exhibit of light and sound; it's gorgeous. My 3 year old absolutely loved walking through the strings upon strings of hanging lights. If you're pinching pennies, but need a dose of art, come by for free on Thursdays to experience the constantly changing exhibits. Fridays and Saturdays are also free after 5pm. But if you come by for free, I still encourage you to make even a small donation. Support the arts!

Went here today for their FREE Thursdays and really enjoyed myself! They had 3 exhibits: Mutual Reality, Shizu Saldamando, and Divergent Materiality (contemporary glass art). I really enjoyed Divergent as I have always taken an interest in glass blowing and the Mutual Reality was very cool! It didn't take us long to walk through and anyone is welcome to stay as long as they want. Everyone was extremely nice and knowledgeable and they have a GREAT gift shop!

I came here a year ago for the sea of light exhibit and had a great experience, and hoped this year would be the same. The infinity mirror exhibit by Refik Anadol was great. You're only in there for four minutes but it is super trippy and a cool experience! You have to wear covers on your feet that they give you because you're standing on glass the whole time. They also have another exhibit called where the wild things are right now that has art involving paintings of animals. There was a nice man working in the museum when we were there who volunteered to help us take pictures which was nice. The museum is small but worth while as there are interesting pieces. I definitely recommend coming here for sure !