COMING THIS FALL: The MexiCali Biennial is pleased to introduce the MXCL BNL LAB, a resource for research through multimedia arts programs and events. With outposts in Calexico, CA and Whittier, CA this special initiative will focus on the borderlands through the cultural production of the Californias.
The lab invites artists, culture bearers, humanities experts and local participants to engage in conversations through a series of exhibitions, salon style gatherings, oral histories, and community workshops, with the aim to collect a better understanding of our “borders” both real and metaphorical.
The MXCL BNL LAB embarks on a two-year special initiative, the PARA/normal Borders Lab, which will allow a deep dive into concepts surrounding the upcoming 2026 MexiCali Biennial exhibition titled PARA/normal Borders that will take place in Calexico (Steppling Art Gallery and casa la linea arte contemporáneo), Mexicali and Riverside (Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art and Culture). Please check EVENTS page for upcoming events.
Locations:
MXCL BNL LAB – Whittier (Opening this Fall)
6545 Greenleaf Ave
Whittier, CA 90601
Hours: Saturdays 11-5 or by appointment
MXCL BNL LAB at casa la linea arte contemporáneo – Calexico
By appointment or invite only
Contact: info[at]mexicalibiennial.org for appointment.
The MXCL BNL LAB is not currently accepting unsolicited proposals. An open call for artwork for PARA/normal Borders will be released in 2025.
MXCL BNL LAB is made possible with support from the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation. MXCL BNL LAB is a project of the MexiCali Biennial, Inc. All rights reserved.
Casa la linea arte contemporáneo is an artist-run space nestled in a suburban home in the city of Calexico,CA, just steps away from the international border between the U.S. and Mexico. The space is dedicated to the presentation of cutting-edge artistic projects and experimental exhibitions, and to fostering dialogue and cultural exchange between the two countries. The ambiance here is intimate yet vibrant, with each corner of the house having the potential to be creatively explored and activated. From the interior spaces to be used for talks, performances, dinners and exhibitions, to the front and backyard to host open-air events, cook outs and happenings, and to present temporary outdoor art projects and installations.
