The Wattis is a nonprofit exhibition venue and research institute that holds temporary exhibitions, public events, and in-depth research. Beloved by Bay Area patrons and an international audience, the Institute plays an important role for CCA students, especially in the MA Curatorial Practice and MFA Fine Arts programs.
📍360 Kansas St.
CCA Wattis Institute for Contemporary Arts
Media Gallery
Maia Cruz Palileo at the CCA Wattis
Expansive exhibitions and in-depth research
Academic engagement
A gathering place
▪️ Expansive exhibitions and in-depth research
The Wattis programming reflects on the question, “What can we learn from artists today?” and shows support for artists who take risks. The Institute provides a public forum to established, emerging, and under-recognized practitioners from around the globe and close to home. Textiles Faculty Josh Faugh had a solo exhibition at this venue in 2022, drawing acclaim from students, the press, and the public. Its year-long research program uses the work of one artist, such as Lorraine O’Grady, as a lens to engage with the contemporary moment.
▪️ Academic engagement
As a graduate student, you’ll be a part of the Wattis Institute’s prominent exhibition schedule. Second-year MFA Fine Arts students have the privilege of exhibiting their artwork in the Wattis galleries as part of their capstone exhibition. You will also gain hands-on experience through fellowships or gallery assistant roles, which support general operations year round.
▪️ A gathering place
Tucked away behind the gallery walls is a newly renovated bar and library. During the day, it’s a place for conversations with your classmates or solo study time. In the evenings, it turns into a reception area for gallery events and artist talks, where you can meet a community of people who share the same interests as you. You can also purchase books published by the Wattis Institute.
