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The Institute of Contemporary Art, located right on the Boston Harbor in the Seaport District, is a place to appreciate the imagination of and reflect on the creative process of talented artists. Founded in 1936, the ICA is a sister institution to the MoMA in New York. The museum displays thought-provoking pieces of contemporary art ranging from tiny closet-like rooms resembling a spider web to velvet, water-color stained rugs to unique chairs just outside their entrance that you can sit on. You will be amused by the bewildered stares from visitors who are unaware that guests are encouraged to sit! The general admission price of $15 dollars is a wonderful value because there is so much artwork to cover and it includes a free water shuttle ride to Watershed (open through September 2nd); this new venue in East Boston offers a historical gallery as well as video installations. For those looking to save, on Thursday nights from 5pm to 9pm, admission is free for everyone!
Current exhibits offer a variety of artwork and contemporary perspectives. Entangled in the Everyday provokes self-reflection through use of common materials. Pattern and decoration emphasize maximalism in the exhibit Less is a Bore. Nina Chanel Abney displays her pieces including a mural about social tensions. And this fall, there are five upcoming exhibits. Be sure to check out Yayoi Kusama's infinity mirror room presentation using glow-in-the-dark tentacles to create psychedelia.
If these exhibits aren't catching your interest, there are plenty of other options for you! The ICA offers free summer tours of local architecture as well as free workshops. On some nights there are live musicians by the water; you can grab a cocktail or beer and enjoy a seaside show. Kids can participate in art making for free as well. There's truly something for everyone and to view all of their events, please visit their website.
