Our Galleries

Our Galleries

Our galleries are open for wonder and wander! MCBA raises the visibility of artists by presenting an average of 10–12 exhibitions annually in two separate galleries.

Main Gallery

MCBA presents 5–6 exhibitions annually in our Main Gallery, located on the ground floor of the Open Book building in Downtown Minneapolis. Exhibitions feature work by artists working across the creative spectrum of book arts, celebrating both its rich history and diverse contemporary approaches. All exhibitions are free and open to the public, and seek to expand awareness and understanding of this dynamic art form.

MCBA does not take proposals for Main Gallery exhibitions.

Upcoming Main Gallery Shows

Shift-Lab Collective
February 17–June 1, 2024

MCBA Artist Collective
June 13–August 10, 2024

MCBA Prize
August 16–October 15, 2024

Jerome Residency
October 31, 2024–January 5, 2025

The 2022 & 2023 McKnight Book Artist Fellows
January 16–March 29, 2025


Outlook Gallery

The Outlook Gallery at MCBA is a unique window gallery space at the front of the Open Book building, designed to engage and inspire pedestrians, commuters, and cyclists along Washington Avenue. It is visible day and night to hundreds of passersby in a vibrant area of Downtown Minneapolis, close to the Stone Arch Bridge, Guthrie Theater, Mill City Museum, the University of Minnesota, Light Rail Station, and US Bank Stadium. The space is also accessible through the Shop at MCBA, which offers an inspirational collection of handmade artists’ books, prints, cards, and art supplies. The Outlook Gallery fosters community engagement through artwork to inspire an appreciation for creativity, curiosity, and place.

Would your work be a good fit for the Outlook Gallery? We’re seeking proposals! Submit your book-related installation art from January 31–March 29, 2024 via the Submittable link on our Exhibition Proposals page.

Upcoming Outlook Gallery Shows

Caitlin Skaalrud
February 3–April 28, 2024

Nicole Simpkins
April 27–August 3, 2024

Yuka Petz
August 10–October 30, 2024