18th Street Arts Center
Discover vibrant, emerging art in working studios at this unique cultural hub located at the Santa Monica Airport.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Experience vibrant art walks
18th Street Arts Center
Best Time
Experience vibrant art walks

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover vibrant, emerging art in working studios at this unique cultural hub located at the Santa Monica Airport.
"A place I highly recommend for a brief visit that can be completed in about 45-60 minutes."
Free Admission! 🎉
Enjoy incredible art without spending a dime. Perfect for a budget-friendly cultural outing.
Chat with Artists 🗣️
Don't hesitate to engage with the resident artists; they're happy to discuss their work and process.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Artist Studios
Various buildings on campus
Wander through studios, witness creativity firsthand, and connect with resident artists. A truly inspiring artistic journey.
Open House Art Walks
Throughout the campus
Experience the full vibrancy of the center during special events. Meet artists and see a diverse range of works.

Reconverted Warehouse Ambiance
Main building
Soak in the unique atmosphere of art thriving within a repurposed industrial space.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Discover Local Art
Check Event Schedules
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Things to do in Santa Monica?
Free Admission! 🎉
Enjoy incredible art without spending a dime. Perfect for a budget-friendly cultural outing.
Chat with Artists 🗣️
Don't hesitate to engage with the resident artists; they're happy to discuss their work and process.
Locals, what are your favorite/unique things to do in Santa Monica?
Hi! We are visiting Santa Monica next week? What should we do and go see? Where should we eat? Any cool bars we should be sure to visit? Thank you! ♡
Short & Sweet Visit ⏱️
Allocate about 45-60 minutes for a fulfilling exploration of the studios and grounds.
Check for Events 📅
Visit their website or social media for upcoming open houses and special exhibitions.
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Admission! 🎉
Enjoy incredible art without spending a dime. Perfect for a budget-friendly cultural outing.
Chat with Artists 🗣️
Don't hesitate to engage with the resident artists; they're happy to discuss their work and process.
Short & Sweet Visit ⏱️
Allocate about 45-60 minutes for a fulfilling exploration of the studios and grounds.
Check for Events 📅
Visit their website or social media for upcoming open houses and special exhibitions.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the 18th Street Arts Center for its vibrant local art scene and the unique opportunity to interact directly with resident artists in their studios. The free admission and inspiring atmosphere are frequently highlighted, though some prefer a more traditional gallery setting over intimate studio visits.
"Located in a reconverted warehouse at Santa Monica Airport, the artist studios at this cultural stop in Santa Monica are definitely worth exploring. With free entrance and the opportunity to meet emerging artists, interact with them, and discuss their art, this is a place I highly recommend for a brief visit that can be completed in about 45-60 minutes."
Guillaume Bourcy
"Very nice and interesting works of all kinds... Lots of creativity!!!
Personally I don't feel comfortable entering other artists studios... I prefer an open gallery... But, some intimacy sometimes work."
Jorge Vismara
"Such a beautiful place and very nice art"
Frank Chambers
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The 18th Street Arts Center is located at the Santa Monica Airport. Parking is available on-site. Public transportation options can also get you close to the airport area.
Yes, there is parking available at the 18th Street Arts Center, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
While not directly on a major bus line, you can reach the Santa Monica Airport area via public transport and then take a short walk or ride-share to the arts center.
The campus consists of several small buildings. It's best explored on foot, allowing you to discover each artist's studio.
Yes, biking is a great option, especially if you're exploring the Santa Monica area. There are bike paths nearby, and you can likely find bike racks on campus.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to the 18th Street Arts Center is free, making it an accessible cultural experience for everyone.
Operating hours can vary, especially for individual artist studios. It's best to check their official website or social media for the most current information, particularly if you're planning a visit outside of an event.
For general visits to see the studios, advance booking is typically not required as admission is free. However, for special ticketed events, booking ahead might be necessary.
While the campus is generally accessible, individual artist studio hours may vary. Visiting during an open house or scheduled event is the best way to ensure you can interact with artists.
While not always formally advertised, keep an eye out for special walking tours or events that might offer guided experiences of the campus and artist studios.
🎫 🎨 Onsite Experience
You'll find a diverse range of contemporary art, including painting, sculpture, mixed media, and more, created by emerging and established resident artists.
Many artists are open to discussing sales. If you're interested in purchasing a piece, you can inquire directly with the artist in their studio.
The center can be interesting for older children who appreciate art. However, some studio spaces might have delicate works, so supervision is recommended.
A typical visit can last between 45 minutes to an hour, allowing time to explore several studios and appreciate the art. You might stay longer if attending a special event.
The 'Artists in Residence' program hosts artists from around the world, providing them with studio space and a supportive environment to create new work.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary by artist. It's always best to ask the artist for permission before taking photos inside their studio.
The unique architecture of the reconverted warehouse and the diverse artwork provide many interesting visual opportunities for photographers.
Weekday afternoons might offer softer light and fewer crowds, while weekend events can provide dynamic scenes with people interacting with art.
Given its location at the Santa Monica Airport, drone usage is likely restricted. Always check local regulations and airport authority rules before flying a drone.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing both wide studio shots and details. A prime lens can be useful for low-light conditions within studios.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families:
* Focus on visual exploration: Let kids lead the way in exploring studios that catch their eye.
* Ask open-ended questions: 'What colors do you see?' or 'What do you think this is made of?' can encourage engagement.
* Be mindful of studio spaces: Some studios may contain delicate or mature artwork, so supervise children closely.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts & Collectors
Recommendations:
* Attend open house events: These are prime times to see a broad spectrum of work and meet artists.
* Engage with artists: Discuss their artistic journey and inquire about available pieces. Many artists are open to direct sales.
* Follow up: If you see something you love, get the artist's contact information to follow up later.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The 18th Street Arts Center Experience
This artist residency model fosters a vibrant community and supports artists from diverse backgrounds, both local and international. The center is known for nurturing emerging talent and providing a platform for experimentation. While the campus is spread across several buildings, the atmosphere is generally welcoming and conducive to exploration. It’s a place where art is not just displayed but actively made, offering a raw and authentic encounter with creativity.
Key takeaways for visitors include the free admission, the opportunity to meet artists, and the chance to see art in its nascent stages. It’s an ideal spot for those seeking an alternative to conventional museums and galleries, offering a more intimate and personal connection with the art and its creators. The unique setting within the airport grounds adds another layer of intrigue to the visit.
Navigating the Campus and Artist Interactions
When interacting with artists, remember that they are often in the midst of their creative work. A friendly greeting and a genuine question about their art can open up fascinating conversations. Many artists are happy to share their process, inspirations, and even the stories behind specific pieces. This direct engagement is a highlight for many visitors, offering insights that go beyond a typical gallery label.
Pro-tip: Keep an eye out for signage indicating open studios or specific events. While spontaneous visits are welcome, attending an open house art walk provides a more structured opportunity to see a wider range of work and meet more artists in a festive atmosphere.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit