The Contemporary Art Society (CAS) is a support organization for Modern and Contemporary Art at the Tucson Museum of Art. Established in 1999, CAS's mission is to foster a greater community awareness of the role contemporary art plays in our area's cultural identity. CAS sponsors lectures, studio visits, tours and social events that promote the study, discussion, and appreciation of contemporary art. The objectives also include furthering the goals of the Tucson Museum of Art by actively acquiring contemporary art for the permanent collection.
Provides opportunities for artists, curators, scholars, and the community to examine current issues in the visual arts and explore newer forms of art that chanllenge the art world's status quo.
Invites members to tour collectors' homes and gain a unique perspective on the passion of art collecting. A real highlight every season!
Followed by wine receptions and dinners, features locally and internationally prominent artists, curators, critics, gallery owners, museum directors, and other arts professionals who give fascinating insight into the workings of the art world. Past distinguished speakers include Audrey Flack, Ivan Karp, Jane Hammond, Terence LaNoue, Gaylen Hansen, and Marilu Knode.
Involve CAS members in yearly visits to local artists' studios, tours of regional art sites, and trips to other art venues across the USA.
Sine 1999, in consultation with the curatorial staff, CAS has contributed more than $100,000 in artwork to the Tucson Museum of Art including a notable mixed media work by James Havard, an important sculpture by John Chamberlain, a woodcut by renowned artist Chuck Close, and a mixed media work by Vernon Fisher.
