Andalusian Center of Contemporary Art

The Andalusian Center of Contemporary Art (CAAC) is one of the most important cultural institutions in Spain, located in the Monastery of La Cartuja in Seville. This complex, founded in 1400 by Don Gonzalo de Mena, bishop of Seville, has a rich and varied history spanning centuries of transformations. Originally a Carthusian monastery, the building underwent numerous changes of use over the centuries, serving as a ceramic factory in the 19th century and eventually transforming into the modern center of contemporary art that we know today. The history of the CAAC is closely linked to the site it occupies. The Monastery of La Cartuja, with its Gothic and Renaissance architecture, was an important religious center until its secularization in the 19th century. During the Spanish War of Independence, the monastery was abandoned and later sold to Charles Pickman, a British entrepreneur who converted it into a ceramics factory, the famous Fábrica de loza de la Cartuja. This industrial period left an indelible mark on the structure, with the construction of new buildings and the adaptation of existing spaces for ceramic production. In 1989, in preparation for the Universal Exposition of 1992, the Andalusian government decided to restore the La Cartuja complex and establish the Andalusian Center of Contemporary Art. The official inauguration took place in 1997, with the aim of promoting the knowledge and dissemination of contemporary art, as well as preserving and enhancing the historical and artistic heritage of the site. The CAAC is an exceptional example of how contemporary art can dialogue with history. The exhibition spaces of the center are distributed among the ancient monastery buildings, creating a fascinating contrast between historic architecture and modern works of art. The permanent and temporary exhibitions at the CAAC include a wide range of artistic expressions, from paintings to installations, from photography to sculpture, offering a comprehensive overview of contemporary artistic trends. One of the most interesting aspects of the CAAC is its commitment to promoting local and international art. The center regularly hosts exhibitions by Andalusian and Spanish artists, as well as prominent figures from the international art scene. This inclusive and global approach reflects the CAAC’s mission to be a meeting point and cultural exchange, where different artistic visions can confront and enrich each other. The CAAC’s exhibition program is enriched by a series of educational and cultural activities that actively engage the public. Workshops, lectures, film screenings, and guided tours are just some of the initiatives that the center organizes to bring contemporary art closer to an increasingly broad and diverse audience. These activities not only promote understanding and appreciation of contemporary art, but also contribute to creating a sense of community and participation around the CAAC. The CAAC’s permanent collection is another strength of the center. It includes significant works by Spanish and international artists, including names like Luis Gordillo, Candida Höfer, and Zush. The collection reflects the evolution of contemporary art from the 1950s to today, with a particular focus on the most innovative and experimental trends. The dialogue between the collection’s works and the historic spaces of the monastery creates a unique visiting experience, where past and present intertwine harmoniously. One fascinating aspect of the CAAC is its location within the La Cartuja Park, a green oasis that offers an ideal setting for art and culture. The park, with its gardens, lakes, and pedestrian paths, is a place of great natural beauty that invites reflection and contemplation. The outdoor spaces of the CAAC are used for artistic installations and cultural events, creating a close connection between art and the surrounding environment.