What does Cincinnati's Contemporary Arts Center (CAC) have in common with a thrill ride? That's not a joke. There's a real answer.

When the CAC, designed by Zaha Hadid, was under construction, the design for the stairs proved an issue for traditional contractors. So, the organization commissioned a company that builds roller coasters, which was familiar with the needs of a strangely sloping structure. It's one of many ways the CAC stands out.

More Than A Museum
Located on the corner of 6th and Walnut, the CAC is where contemporary art and community collide (unlike a roller coaster, where collisions are typically avoided). "The Contemporary Arts Center is more than just a museum," says Creativity Center Director Elizabeth Hardin-Klink. "It's a community center. It's a creative space for our local artists, for families, for teens, for adults interested in learning more."

Unlike many traditional museums, the CAC doesn't have a permanent collection, so it doesn't own most of the artwork on display. This means every visit offers something new, as exhibitions rotate regularly. What really makes the organization stand out, though, is its community engagement programs:

Co-Lab
The CAC describes Co-Lab as "an experiment in what's possible." It connects artists to the community through six collaboration sessions over three months and can include anything from roundtable discussions, short film screenings or deep dives into self-care to a guided walk in the park. Co-Lab adapts to whatever is important to the artist while ensuring community participation. It's a collaboration and a "laboratory" rolled into one.

Creative Café
Imagine a vibrant hub where local creatives from all disciplines come together to form a community while supporting each other's crafts. That's the sort of artist market you'll find at the Creative Café. Beyond physical meetups in the lobby, the Creative Café also extends to social media, with open mics and tiny desk-style concerts on Instagram.

Supporting Arts for Everyone
Programs at the CAC cater to everyone from toddlers to senior citizens, including specialized programs for adults with dementia. This inclusive approach is made possible through funding from ArtsWave, which creates a stable foundation so that the CAC can focus on creating meaningful artistic experiences rather than constantly worrying about financial support.

The next time you're downtown, you might find yourself lighting up a bench by sitting on it, seeing a local artist perform or marveling at roller coaster stairs. One thing's certain — the CAC offers a fresh perspective on how art and community can intertwine to create something truly special.

This blog post is based on content from "Better Know Cincy's Arts," featuring the Contemporary Arts Center.