#27 The Institute of Contemporary Art (ICA)

The Institute of Contemporary Art

100 Northern AvenueBoston, MA 02210

Travel Time: MBTA Red L

ine to South Station, and a 10 Min walk, OR Silver Line to WTC

Cost: FREE (on Thursdays from 5-9) or $10 for students

So every Thursday, all year round, Target hosts"Target Free Thursdays" and this is the best option if you want to see the exhibits. I really believe that

this is not worth the $10 admission price, and was extremelyglad to not have paid anything. The Gallery is located on the 4th floor, which is the only place you are allowed without paying admission. Also, you are allowed to walk in and straight up to the 4th floor, without any tickets or waiting in line, unless of course you are waiting for the elevator. This is nice and provides a flowy and relaxed environment.

There were two main exhibits Charles Ledray and Dr. Lakra. You are not permitted to take photos inside the exhibits. These both were interesting in very different ways. Charles' exhibit was miniaturized clothing, and pottery. It was really amazing handiwork. Dr. Lakra, had various paintings, and prints with attractive pin up girls completely covered in tattoo's these were really cool and intriguing. Both exhibits will be around through 2011. My favorite portion of the exhibits was the one wall with about 20 Shep

ard Fairey prints. These are part of the permanent collection of the ICA. There was also a very interesting piece in the lobby by Francesca DiMattio.

The artwork is there for you to experience yourself, despite viewing it with hundreds of others.

The galleries are laid out in a very natural and organic way, and in between there is a viewing space, to watch the boats out in the harbor. This portion I really enjoyed, and it made me appreciate the architecture of the building as well. The 4th floor is also home to the MediaTech Lab, which is a great room, with stadium seating an

d iMacs where you can virtually interact with the exhibits and learn more. This room is protruding from the building at such an angle, where when you look out you see the bottom of the ocean. I am doing a terrible job at describing, but it is amazing, so take the time to experience it while there.

Outside facing the harbor there is a cafe, as well as bleachers and an outdoor bar. This is a local hang out for those that work in the area. There was live music playing, and it was a great location to relax, people watch, and watch the boats sail around.

Overall this is a great place to go, for free!

Don't Forget to Check Out Their Website at: http://www.icaboston.org/