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New Orleans, Orleans Parish / Museums

Contemporary Arts Center New Orleans

A multidisciplinary arts complex in downtown New Orleans that challenges convention through bold experiments in visual arts and cutting-edge performances.

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Contemporary Arts Center New Orleans
www.cacno.org, website_hero_img_www.cacno.org

What is the Contemporary Arts Center New Orleans known for?

It is a multidisciplinary arts center and arts complex in historic downtown New Orleans that focuses on visual arts and cutting-edge performances. Its mission is to present art that challenges convention and expands the definition of contemporary practice.

What are the hours?

The center is open Wednesday through Monday from 11 to 5.

Is it free?

General gallery admission is free for Louisiana residents. Additionally, the center is part of The Helis Foundation's Art for All program, which underwrites free admission for Louisiana residents on Sundays.

Where is it located and how do I get there?

It is located at 900 Camp Street in historic downtown New Orleans. The center is serviced by NORTA Bus Route 11 Magazine.

What is inside the facility?

The four-story facility contains four galleries, a dance studio, a board room, administrative offices, and a 150-seat proscenium theatre.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

The Contemporary Arts Center New Orleans, known as CACNO, is a multidisciplinary arts complex located in historic downtown New Orleans. Officially beginning its operations in 1977, though some say its spirit was active as early as 1976, the center serves as a welcoming home for contemporary art in the city. Its mission is to cultivate and present art that challenges convention and expands the definition of contemporary practice. The institution is housed in a four-story facility at 900 Camp Street, which was gifted by Sidney Bestoff in 1999. The building's architecture provides a versatile space for creativity, featuring four galleries, a 150-seat proscenium theatre, a dance studio, and administrative offices. This layout allows the center to host a diverse array of events, ranging from visual arts exhibitions to concert performances and lectures. As a place of learning, CACNO focuses on bold experiments in visual arts and cutting-edge performances. By providing a a welcoming environment, the center ensures that contemporary art remains accessible to the community. The facility's multidisciplinary approach ensures that the visitor experience is not limited to a visual gallery, but extends to the performing arts.

Visitor tips

  • Louisiana residents can enjoy free general gallery admission.
  • The center is open Wednesday through Monday from 11 AM to 5 PM.
  • If you are using public transit, the center is served by NORTA Bus Route 11 Magazine.
  • Check the schedule for special events, as concerts and performances may have different hours and ticket arrangements.

Nearby context

Located in the heart of historic downtown New Orleans, CACNO is a central hub for contemporary art, contributing to the Warehouse District's reputation as an arts-centric neighborhood.

Sources

Evidence and links