The Contemporary Arts Center of New Orleans is a popular attraction in Downtown NOLA with multi-disciplinary programing presented year-round, including world-class visual arts exhibitions, cutting edge performing arts shows, and unique education programs.
The CAC was formed in the fall of 1976 by a passionate group of visual artists. It began as an artist-run, artist-driven community organization and helped in growing the Arts District in Downtown NOLA. Currently, the Downtown Arts District is home to several art galleries and museums including The National WWII Museum.
The CAC’s significance and role in the cultural community of New Orleans has and always will be cemented in its broad community-based programs and initiatives. Its education department engages over 10,000 children and adults annually.
Renovated in 1990, and donated to the CAC in 1999, the CAC’s building mixes the timelessness of New Orleans’ historic architecture with contemporary materials and usable open spaces.
In September 2017, the CAC completed a landmark capital project in partnership with The Domain Companies to develop The Shop, a creative co-working space on the third and fourth floors of the CAC’s 100,000 square-foot building (including two adjoining warehouses).
Louisiana residents can enjoy free admission to the CAC on Sundays and children and students under grade 12 can enter for free at any time thanks to The Helis Foundation. Guests with special needs should contact info@cacno.org or call 504 528-3805 in order to make arrangements for special seating.
About Discover Downtown NOLA
Downtown New Orleans is home to a collection of neighborhoods including the Historic Lafayette Square, Warehouse District, Canal Street, Central Business District, Arts District, Gravier-Common, South Market District, Picayune Place, Riverfront as well as several industries such as Tourism, Hospitality, Sports & Entertainment, Culture, BioMedical, Financial, and Legal. Discover Downtown is an opportunity to spotlight all that Downtown has to offer for shopping, living, working and visiting.
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