New on View at MCASD: “Celestial and Terrestrial Worlds” and “Land and Sea”

New on View at MCASD brings fresh perspectives to the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego’s renowned collection with two thematic exhibitions—”Celestial and Terrestrial Worlds” and “Land and Sea”.

These new presentations explore the intersection of nature, history, and identity through a powerful selection of contemporary works.

Celestial and Terrestrial Worlds

Curated by Kathryn Kanjo, this exhibition connects the earth and sky through works by Robert Rauschenberg, Maya Lin, Byron Kim, and more. As part of the global Rauschenberg Centennial, MCASD joins museums worldwide in celebrating the artist’s legacy, exploring how he redefined artistic expression and activism.

From the cosmic to the everyday, the exhibition highlights works that move between precision and abstraction—whether through Mary Weatherford’s luminous neon paintings, Trevor Paglen’s futuristic drone imagery, or Sara Genn’s layered skyscapes.

Rauschenberg’s prints, inspired by the Apollo 11 launch, and Byron Kim’s striking representation of the Panama Canal further connect the terrestrial and celestial.

📍 On view in the Richard D. Marshall Gallery and Marcia Foster Hazan View Gallery

Land and Sea: Exploring Landscape Through Contemporary Art

Opening March 20, Land and Sea highlights how artists use landscapes to explore personal and cultural histories. Featuring work by Fox Maxy, Jeanne Dunn, Gail Werner, and Margaret Noble, this exhibition reflects on San Diego’s coastal and desert environments.

• Fox Maxy’s immersive film installation, Blood Materials, blends archival and contemporary footage of San Diego’s coastline and deserts, incorporating Indigenous storytelling.
• Gail Werner’s monotypes capture Native traditions through delicate depictions of cactus seeds and seashells.
• Margaret Noble’s Horizon creates a stunning sunset illusion, raising questions about technology’s role in shaping perception.

📍 On view in the Parker Gallery and Fayman Gallery starting March 20

See you there!

📍 700 Prospect St, La Jolla
ℹ️ More info here

Whether looking to the stars or grounding in the landscape, New on View at MCASD offers a thought-provoking look at how contemporary artists interpret the world around us. Don’t miss these dynamic thematic exhibitions at MCASD La Jolla.

See you there, San Diego!