Institute of Contemporary Art, Miami

Since its inception, ICA Miami has prioritized engagement with the local community with the aim to contribute to the proliferation of visual and cultural literacy in the South Florida region.

ICA Miami's School Initiatives Program engages 200 elementary and middle school students in a multi-session education program that fosters critical thinking skills, visual literacy and self-esteem, while also helping students utilize art as a tool to make connections with core subjects in school and improve academic achievement. Museum educators work closely with each classroom teacher to select artworks, themes, and activities that relate to and enhance core curriculum, including Florida State Core Standards.

Through its Community Engagement Initiative, ICA Miami partners with local community and government organizations to provide under-resourced and at-risk youth and adults with project-based, art-making workshops that aim to increase self-esteem and critical thinking skills by empowering the social and cultural identities of participants. By partnering with non-arts organizations that serve specific audiences from marginalized or under-resourced communities, we are able to reach individuals who otherwise would not engage with the arts.

Immersive Tours engage local private schools, organizations, Miami-Dade Public Schools and educators with contemporary art through interactive learning designed to spark interest in content while building empathy and critical thinking skills. Student groups engage in an age-appropriate, comprehensive museum experience, which includes curriculum that incorporates Florida state and STEAM standards.

Young Artists Initiative is an immersive two-year program for local student artists in grades 9-12. Through 80 contact hours per year, the program allows participants to learn about the methods contemporary artists use in their practice, exchange ideas about art, and build practical skills that will prepare them for careers in art.