Andrew Utt, the Executive Director at ICA San Diego and ICA North in Encinitas, grew up in San Diego and moved away at 18 to explore the arts and culture of major cities worldwide. After producing art exhibitions on six continents and living in cities like San Francisco, Paris, Buenos Aires, and Bogotá, the unexpected trip back to San Diego has been transformative.
“There are two things that make a great city – proximity to the water, and a thriving arts and culture scene. Compared with other major cities, San Diego was lacking in the latter. But this is not a weakness – it’s an opportunity.”
Andrew plays a crucial role in bridging local and global art scenes. “It is exciting for our community to have an artist who is showing at the Venice Biennale exhibit at our space while we have a local artist positioned at the same level. It gives both value and inspiration to the local artists.”
While San Diego’s understanding of its place in the global arts landscape is evolving, many local audiences can be resistant to challenging works. “My philosophy is – if you didn’t like the art, then it has done its job. At least you’ve made an opinion about it.”
The current exhibitions—Melissa Walter: Plexus and Manuel Alejandro Rodriguez-Delgado: Futuros Itinerantes—explore the intersection of art and science, tackling themes like genetics and environmental issues. Next year, ICA North will focus on healing and wellness with local artists, encouraging the Encinitas community to engage with these critical topics.
Andrew believes that art is a vehicle to talk about the world around us. “ICA San Diego is here to generate conversations that inspire action, change, or a basic understanding of our place in the world.”
As an active board member of the Encinitas Chamber of Commerce, which is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year, Andrew recognizes the importance of integrating arts and culture into the local economy. He was inspired by cultural centers in São Paulo that were run by the local Chamber of Commerce. “Investment from the business community is vital for enhancing the arts’ role in improving quality of life.”
“The new tourism website, Visitencinitasca.com, is another exciting initiative to promote the vibrant arts culture of Encinitas.”
Perfect day in Encinitas?
A stroll through the art galleries at ICA, lunch at Blue Fin Sushi and dinner at Herb & Sea. Thank you, Encinitas, for bringing great food and culture to our community.
