Kala Art Institute

Kala Art Institute stands as a beacon of artistic innovation and community engagement in the Bay Area. Founded in 1974 by Archana Horsting and Yuzo Nakano, Kala began as a small garage studio with a single etching press and an ambitious vision. Today, it thrives in a 15,200 square-foot facility located in the historic Heinz building in West Berkeley, providing a dynamic space for creative exploration and cultural exchange.

Dedicated to supporting artists at all stages of their careers, Kala offers residencies, professional development, and a vibrant studio environment where experimentation is encouraged and ideas flourish. Its expansive facility includes state-of-the-art printmaking, digital media, and photography studios, as well as project spaces and classrooms. The centerpiece of the institute is its 2,200-square-foot gallery—a light-filled venue that brings contemporary art directly into the public sphere through regular exhibitions and public events.

Kala is deeply rooted in its community and reaches far beyond its walls through education and outreach. Each year, it serves around 35,000 people through exhibitions, artist residencies, and a wide range of public programs. Its Artists-in-Schools initiative delivers engaging visual arts education to local public schools in Berkeley, Emeryville, and Oakland, enriching the lives of students and teachers alike.

With artists hailing from across the globe and from around the corner, Kala represents a truly diverse spectrum of perspectives and practices. About 85% of residency participants are Bay Area artists, ensuring a strong local presence alongside international voices. Kala remains committed to being a space where creative risk-taking is nurtured and where art serves as a vital connection between individuals, ideas, and community.