The Kensington Goes Out: Boston’s Institute of Contemporary Art
You need only glance around the Kensington to know how deeply we care about the arts. We’re so grateful to share our neighborhood with the Institute of Contemporary Art/Boston (ICA). And the ICA is about much, much more than art.
Five things to do at the ICA, besides just enjoy the exhibits:
1) Soak up the architecture. With Boston Harbor as its backdrop, the ICA’s design will leave you breathless. The New York Times‘ review fawned over architects Diller Scofidio and Renfro for features like the folding ribbon design and cantilever reaching out toward sea. The floor-to-ceiling glass panels present a mesmerizing view of Boston Harbor.
2) Hit the raw bar. What’s a waterfront without shellfish? On select summer Fridays, the ICA hosts a pop-up raw bar with Island Creek Oysters. Enjoy your art and music with a side of Island Creeks, Moon Shoals and Wellfleets. Upcoming dates and musical accompaniments are August 1 and 29, and September 5.
3) End the week on a high note. It’s no wonder the ICA’s First Friday events always sell out. Just $15 buys you admission to a remarkable evening of museum talks, music and more. Enjoy live performances on the steps with small plates and a full bar, including signature drinks inspired by museum exhibits.
4) Take a holiday. When one door closes, another one opens. The ICA opens its doors on the following half-dozen holidays so you can spend your day off indulging in the arts: Martin Luther King, Jr. Day; Presidents’ Day; Patriots’ Day; Memorial Day; Labor Day; and Columbus Day.
5) Maximize your free time. Members always get in free, and the same goes for young people 17 and under, but Thursdays from 5-9 p.m. are free for everyone. On Play Dates for Kids Saturdays, adults accompanying kids get in free. And the ICA thanks active duty military personnel and their families with free admission Memorial Day through Labor Day.
There’s so much happening at the ICA — don’t make the mistake of waiting for a visit from out-of-town guests to check it out. Summer is a great time to make the most of it. We’ll see you over there!
