10 Things About Kathryn Kanjo & Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego

I try to look at setbacks as an opportunity for refinement.

With two locations, Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego (MCASD) is devoted to the exploration and presentation of the art of our time, presenting works across all media created since 1950. At MCASD Downtown, you can experience contemporary art in a historic setting – the Jacobs Building, formerly the Santa Fe Depot baggage building. MCASD La Jolla is currently closed for a major renovation and expansion of the current gallery space to better showcase the Museum’s world-renowned 4,700 piece collection. Executive Director Kathryn Kanjo ensures that the MCASD’s internationally recognized collection and exhibition spaces provide a variety of experiences and public programs for our entire community.

10 Things About Kathryn Kanjo & Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego

#1 While I’ve lived in various places, I am absolutely Californian-born and I grew up in Redlands.

#2 The one quality that I think everyone should have is empathy.

#3 MCASD offers its patrons exquisite travel adventures – from Brazil to Belgium. Last year we had unique experiences in artists’ studios and collectors’ homes throughout Portugal. Next stop? Hong Kong!

#4 Finishing the La Jolla expansion is at the top of my bucket list! The design, by architect Annabelle Selldorf, quadruples our gallery spaces and adds two new terraces and an art park with ocean views.

#5 Honey the Cat is an avid hunter of moths and a big daytime sleeper at my home. Her greatest skill, however, is identifying people who are allergic, to cats. Follow her on Instagram @honeyocicat.

#6 People may not know that I worked at MCASD early in my career as a curator. Then, I took jobs in Portland, San Antonio and Santa Barbara before coming “home” to La Jolla.

#7 Just as I looked to my elders for guidance when I was young, I believe it is also important to listen to the upcoming generation in order to stay relevant.

#8 Art, itself, is uplifting, and at MCASD we find meaningful ways to connect its powers to people in need, from students to soldiers. ArtOASIS is an ongoing program that uses art to assist active military members who suffer the effects of PTSD. Extended School Partnerships help students link artistic ideas to their classroom curriculum.

#9 We are incredibly proud that our $95 million expansion is funded entirely through private sources for the public good. It is a true point of San Diego pride.

#10 Monte Carlo is our largest annual fundraiser and its impact is tremendous. Proceeds support our core mission of educating through the prism of contemporary art.