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 Shows

Craft and Conceptual Art
August 25–October 21, 2023
*traveling exhibition from Center for Book Arts in New York

New Editions
October 27 & 28, 2023

Jerome Mentorship Exhibition
November 22, 2023–January 27, 2024

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.

MCBA announces an open call for Outlook Gallery artists biannually as needed. We do not take proposals for Outlook Gallery exhibitions outside of this timeframe.

Upcoming Shows

Minneapolis College of Art & Design MFA Exhibition
July 29–September 30, 2023

Hilke Kurzke
October 9, 2023–January 14, 2024