Our Mission Statement: Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara advances creativity and inspires critical thinking through meaningful engagement with the art of our time.

Founded as Santa Barbara Contemporary Arts Forum (CAF) in 1976 by artists and supporters seeking a venue dedicated solely to contemporary art, these initial organizers envisioned a “forum” for the display of and discussion of artwork being made today both locally and in the larger national and international art community.

What once began as a grassroots, artist-run organization now serves as the leading contemporary arts venue in Central California. MCASB offers its innovative education and exhibition programming to the region primarily free of charge. There is no admission fee because MCASB believes that the arts should be accessible to all audiences.