About the Museum
Since opening in 1994, the California Center for the Arts Museum has served as a vital hub for contemporary art in North San Diego County. As one of several venues on the 12-acre cultural campus of the California Center for the Arts, Escondido, including a concert hall, theater, and conference center, the Museum plays an integral role in the Center’s mission to serve the region with arts programming.
With a 9,000-square-foot gallery space, the Museum has presented work by internationally renowned artists alongside emerging voices and community-based practitioners. From immersive installations to socially engaged exhibitions, the Museum continues a long-standing civic commitment to the arts, bringing world-class contemporary art to the region while reflecting the diverse voices of its communities.
Mission Statement
The Museum’s mission is to foster meaningful engagement with contemporary art and visual culture from the Californias. Through the presentation of exhibitions and events, we invite communities of our region to explore the interconnections between disciplines, periods, and cultures, and to imagine the world in new ways.
Core Values
At the heart of our museum lies a set of core values that define our institutional culture, shaping our direction and guiding our operations. These values guide the decisions and actions of trustees and staff, informing our interactions with each other and with the public.
Cultural Relevance
We are committed to addressing contemporary issues through our programs and exhibitions, providing a space for the community to engage with and reflect upon the world around them.
Community Building through Accessibility and Inclusion
We strive to build a diverse and inclusive community by making art accessible to all, fostering collective engagement, and creating a welcoming environment for everyone, including staff, volunteers, and visitors.
Experimentation
We embrace the power of experimentation to spark curiosity and inspire questions, pushing boundaries and exploring new artistic frontiers.
Support for Artists
Art is central to our mission, and we are dedicated to nurturing artists by offering them opportunities to showcase their work and providing a supportive ecosystem to help cultivate their practices and careers.
Collaboration
We believe in the importance of collaboration and dialogue, both within our institution and with external partners, fostering connections with individuals, other museums, and community organizations to enrich our programming and reach a wider audience.
Contact us
Phone
(760) 839-4120 (Admission Desk)
museum@artcenter.org