Delaware Center of Contemporary Arts Reviews

Large space with rotating collection of local and regional artists. When I was there, they had a special exhibit of art done one a day (with varying degrees of quality) along with a cash bar and a crowd attending the late-night event. Some of the art was stupendous, including an oil painting and some etchings/collage I thought about long after I left. Some of the art was "less accessible," but not as much of the brow-scratching sort you often see in galleries designated as "contemporary." The art was also for sale, and at prices surprisingly within reach of a middle-class art fan, considering how excellent the quality. There are studio spaces on other levels which have been rented out to artists, some of whom have been there for years. When I attended, it was open house so you could see the artists at work. I believe some of the spaces are still available for rent.

Great gender-neutral public restrooms but only open 3 days a week

Followed throughout the gallery by security. Two generations of my family looking at the art with security tracking our every move. Very disrespectful. I will not be back.

---Update
I spoke with Dr. Gonzales and it was a meaningful discussion on what transpired. He explained the situation in further detail and told me how he has already discussed it with his staff. My family and I will take Dr. Gonzales invitation to attend the gallery again in the future.

Not really having to do with the art but went to a wedding reception there Saturday and when I went home I noticed my credit card had been stolen with fraudulent purchases already on it. I had noticed my wallet had been moved from the table to a chair but had just assumed it was moved to clear the table off. Nope. Stole my credit card. So if you re looking for a venue don t have it there!
The exhibits I saw were very nice though.

EDIT: so helpful in going through the footage of the night to help me find the individual. Went from 1 to 5 because the actions of one wrong individual shouldn t mar the image of the facility. The venue was lovely and like I said the art exhibits were fascinating. Looking forward to going back.

Absolutely amazing little museum. I was there for a special event. Its interesting and its free!!! If you're lucky you may run into some of the very talented artists who have a space there.

Contemporary art at it's finest, always interesting and thought provoking.

We've only been one time for a Twin Poets event -- it was amazing. Super talented, good people to their soul. The Delaware Contemporary Arts center itself is an interesting place to visit. They seem to have things for all ages.

Interesting exhibits, changing periodically which is refreshing. I always look forward to seeing something new and innovative. Thanks to all artists.

We attended a wedding here yesterday and the atmosphere and paintings were absolutely beautiful. Hoping to do my next Art Show there.

I'm so sorry. I never intended to leave that first review. It must've been a slip of my finger on this phone. I've actually never been here, but I'm sure it's lovely. I atleast know the owner and customer service is great. Thanks for being so kind in your response and willingness to address a negative review (albeit left in error)

Most of all we enjoyed talking with and learning about the artists in the upstairs studios. Daniel Jackson by his work.

Loved the exhibitions. View Samara Weavers exhibit!

Always good to see local artist and they're work. Great venue.

Neat place to have a party. Just be careful who they bring in for food services

Fun location conveniently located next to the Westin.

Attended a 6yr old bday party... Art was nice, staff was a little weird... Hosts of party (Mom&Dad) did a good job keeping us busy...

Quite enjoyed the current dark installation, I fixed the input on the bottom left television for you

Fine teaching and exhibiting visual arts institution. Quality of Art is inconsistent and frequently average. Lay out is easy to view with separate galleries.

The art expo is quite interesting and definitely requires a special taste.

perfect place to explore some unique and knowledgeable stuff!!

As the Delaware Contemporary matures in age it also matures in what it offers to the community. There is something going on at any point that contributes to the community at large and to the growth of arts in the area.

They continually provide new displays of creative and artistic works for our enjoyment. The staff provide friendly and informative information. Great experience.

Such a neat place, and staff is great! Looking forward to coming back!

With exhibits that change on a regular basis, I like that I get to see something different every time I visit. Most works are surreal in nature and that is what I enjoy most, as well as the potential inspiration.

Beautiful art .
Great gift shop

ITs hard to dislike a small contemporary museum in a small not contemporary city... It tries but with Philly and NYC not that far away it almost seems unnecessary.

This place really deserves more action then it gets.

DCCA is an incredible facility. However it will only ever be as beautiful as the work that furnishes it. Let's show the art community how talented us DE artists are!

My first time there. I went to see the Twin Poets. A super venue. Very convenient with plenty of parking. I plan to attend more concerts there.

I love that this museum is FREE. Interesting art. Thought provoking

This museum is pretty small, so it's best to visit on First Friday, when you can visit the artists in their open studios, browse crafts for sale, and check out the galleries.

Wonderful art center. Delaware is lucky to have it.

Small but interesting displays of art. Good place to stop off, especially on a rainy day! Free!

Very clean and detailed artwork. Selection wasnt as big as I thought, but dont let that deter you. Very nice place.

There are only about 6 galleries total and they feature such impressive works as: 'Pile of Amazon Boxes' and 'Mac OSX Crash Dialogue'. Complete trash. Don't waste your time. Very nice restroom facilities for your inevitable nausea induced colon blockage. This place is a joke. At least you don't have to pay to get in.

An awesome space to experience the work of contemporary artists working in numerous mediums. Highly recommend

There are always new things to see here. Parking is easy. Also, they offer things for a variety of financial levels including many free programs. I recommend checking it out both during an event (like a first Friday or an artist's lecture) and on a quiet day (like a Sunday afternoon). You will have two very different experiences.

HBCU Experience sponsored by the City of Wilmington and Founder/ Introduced by Earl Cooper & Ashlee Christopher should be recognized as paramount. They gave and created a platform that engages our youth to participate, prepare, and be ready for higher education at HBCUs along with local colleges and universities. I wish this event was introduced to me as a minor. Keep up the great work and special thanks to the City of Wilmington Mayor, Earl Cooper, and Ashley Christopher. In addition, I would like to acknowledge all others who participated in making this event AMAZING

Edit: After seeing the gallery owner's message below, I am changing my rating from 1 star to 3 stars. Also, my husband had a conversation with the gallery owner who was apologetic. We will visit again in the future and I look forward to giving a higher rating at that time .
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Awful experience! Doing some site seeing with out of town family and decided to stop by on a whim. Apparently, the gallery was setting up for a wedding during REGULAR business hours; tables of food already set out.
My family was followed throughout the gallery by security. Was interested in buying some art from gift shop, but when asking about the price of a clock was flippantly told "$100, maybe $200". Who says that to a paying customer? Will never set foot in that gallery again!

I wish i took pictures! This museum is cozy and houses some amazing local art. There is no true admisdion costs but they do ask that the patrons donate each time they visit. This would be a great pre-date destination to satisfy artistic appetite before going to dinner.

Very nice place for events. The exhibits are not usually my thing.

Like the selection of art presented. Great mixture of art work presented.

Great museum with a lot of interesting art pieces. Parking is easy and free. Also an incredible venue for events like company parties.

Small museum with small galleries. Interesting if they have an exhibit you like. Be aware that even if an exhibit is still running, they may close the gallery for an event. Unfortunately, we drove 45 minutes for a specific exhibit that was off limits due to an event. Recommend calling in advance.

The Delaware Contemporary is a non-collecting museum that gives established and up and coming contemporary artists an opportunity to exhibit their works. Large spacious galleries feature artworks that please and challenge the eye. A great spot to include in your 1st Friday Art Loop! Lots of events and artists galleries that are open to visitors during the Art Loop. A small but complete gallery shop is a great place to pick up an affordable gift for yourself or someone special.

I would like give this place 5 star for their amazing collection and way they present them. The ambiance was calm and many people come here to explore some unique stuff . The place was very neat and clean. according to me it;s a must visit place

Go to the Other One... I feel so bad saying this, because I'm an artist. If you've seen a show advertised at the Contemporary Museum, by all means, go. However, if you are looking for rooms of beautifully done contemporary paintings and sculpture, either go to the regular Art Museum in Wilmington, or head up to Philly. Every time I have been there, I have been disappointed by experimental stuff or constructions. In my most recent visit, there was a room with huge paintings by a old painter. Her paintings were well~done, painted carefully and skillfully. Almost all the rest were confusing: Why was it here? There? Or why those two together?
There is a big parking lot, once your GPS gets you there. Paying is voluntary. There is no food, so keep that in mind.

Visited for the first time during an exhibition and auction and was VERY impressed with their selection and presentation. Their artwork comes from many local artists and is of a high caliber, while they also feature many rotating pieces. The event itself was planned and executed extremely well, so much so that our party ended up buying several pieces, though we had no solid plans to do so.

Loved this museum. Went on a Friday afternoon and had a lovely time. The staff was super nice and the installations were amazing. Love colorful contemporary art and this was perfect. Must see if you are in the area.

The Delaware Contemporary has become an important part of the Wilmington art family. Many fabulous artists show their work here and there are also artists in residence. The beautiful venue can be rented for weddings and parties for an evening. They also have a family friendly art studio for you and the kids! Easy access to I-95.

such talented artists! our first trip there. we'll be back

Friendly staff, love that is free. Always organizing events for the community

Consistently good exhibits and First Friday is always a great time!

Small museum but well laid out with interesting art.

Went there for a First Friday night. What a great event!

Excellent, and free (option for donation), truly contemporary museum with a constantly rotating selection of art by mostly local and experimental artists. They also occasionally have artists come to talk about their work in the auditorium. The museum is not very large but they fit in a good amount of varied content which keeps you interested and engaged. Parking is usually not an issue as they have their own lot and location is right next to all the waterfront restaurants and the children's museum .

Great gem in the city of wilimington's culture crown

The contemporary art on display changes often. Art classes are offered. I recommend visiting this interesting venue near the water front.