The Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego is gearing up for its biennial Art Auction, and if you’ve been looking for a way to grow your collection while supporting the museum’s mission, this is it.

About 60 carefully curated works – photographs, sculptures, paintings – will be up for bid, featuring artists ranging from early-career talents to renowned names like John Baldessari, Ed Ruscha, and Niki de Saint Phalle.

The whole thing goes down at MCASD’s La Jolla location, and it’s one of those nights where art, community, and fundraising come together in a way that feels meaningful.

A Reflection of MCASD’s Artist Network

Associate Curator Amy Crum put it well: “What is special about the auction for me is that it is a reflection of the incredible relationships that the museum has fostered with a wide-reaching network of artists, collectors and galleries.”

The lineup includes Amy Adler, Math Bass, Karla Diaz, Matt Digiacomo, Max Frintrop, Carlos Garaicoa, Luis González Palma, Lavaughan Jenkins, Perry Vásquez, Cecilia Vicuña, and more.

It’s a mix of local talent, emerging artists, and late-career established names – the kind of curation that makes the auction feel like more than just a fundraiser.

Preview the Works Starting in February

All the auction artworks will be on view in the galleries from February 5 through March 8, so you can preview everything before the big night. If you grab a Gold Circle ticket, you can book a private curatorial tour by appointment to get expert insight on the works and advice on growing your collection.

MCASD curators will also be on hand throughout the auction evening to consult with you, which is a pretty valuable resource if you’re serious about bidding.

Cocktails, Live Auction, and a Christie’s Auctioneer

The evening kicks off with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres while silent auction bidding opens. The live auction starts at 8 PM, led by an auctioneer from Christie’s Auction House, which brings a certain level of professionalism and energy to the proceedings.

Gold Circle ticket holders get preferred seating, a special-edition paddle featuring the work of artist Karla Diaz (limited quantity), and complimentary valet parking. General ticket holders get access to the reception, standing tickets to the live auction, and valet parking.

Supporting Contemporary Art in San Diego

Crum sees the auction as “an invitation to join us in the important work of exhibiting, collecting, and preserving the ever-changing world of contemporary art.”

Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting to build your collection, this is a chance to take home something special while directly supporting MCASD’s exhibitions and programs.

The conversations between artworks in the installation mirror the dialogues MCASD has with its community of supporters – it’s not just about buying art, it’s about being part of something bigger.

See you there!

Sixty curated works, a Christie’s auctioneer, and a night that supports one of San Diego’s most important cultural institutions.

📆 Friday, March 6, 2026, at 6 PM (Live auction starts at 8 PM)
🎟️ Get your tickets here
ℹ️ More info here

See you there, San Diego!