In our auditorium, you'll hear topical and thought-provoking presentations by preeminent artists, designers, architects, writers, critics, and scholars from around the globe.
Timken Lecture Hall
Media Gallery
Events and lectures
▪️ Events and lectures
Our San Francisco location means you’ll have access to visiting practitioners across art, design, and business communities. Graduate programs and divisions organize event series each semester, which range from public lectures and alumni panels to performances. Recent high-profile speakers include Judith Butler, Douglas Crimp, Trevor Paglen, and CCA alum Hank Willis Thomas.
Architecture Lecture Series
The Architecture Division Lecture Series features leading architects, designers, and scholars from across the Bay Area and around the world. Students learn from those who are forging new ways to configure, present, preserve, and critique architecture.
Design Lecture Series
The Design Lecture Series reflects CCA Design’s commitment to being a sanctuary for emerging voices and diverse practices. Each semester, the division brings a powerful slate of thinkers and practitioners who expand our idea of what design is and what design can do.
Visual & Critical Studies Forum
This series convenes regularly throughout the semester and opens dialogues on contemporary issues in the visual arena. Students and faculty have the opportunity to engage with leaders in creative and scholarly fields, including visual studies, literary criticism, cultural studies, journalism, film studies, design, architecture, and fine arts.
Voices in Moving Image Lecture Series
Each semester, CCA’s Film department hosts a powerful slate of thinkers and practitioners who expand the idea of what film is. Artists and filmmakers come in person for screenings and talks, sharing their strategies and stories.