The California Institute of the Arts, commonly known as CalArts, is a prestigious and innovative institution located in Valencia, California. Founded in 1961 by Walt Disney, CalArts has gained recognition as one of the top schools for the arts in the United States and worldwide. The institution was established with a unique vision to provide comprehensive and interdisciplinary arts education.
CalArts offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various artistic disciplines, including visual arts, performing arts, film, music, theater, and more. Students have the freedom to explore and experiment with different art forms, fostering a culture of creativity, collaboration, and innovation. This approach encourages students to push the boundaries of their chosen fields and explore new artistic territories.
One of CalArts’ most distinguishing features is its commitment to cross-disciplinary collaboration and experimentation. The “Open Program” allows students to take courses outside their major, promoting a holistic approach to artistic expression. This interdisciplinary ethos has resulted in groundbreaking work across the arts and has nurtured a diverse and inclusive artistic community.
The campus itself is designed to inspire creativity, with state-of-the-art facilities, including theaters, galleries, studios, and digital media labs. CalArts’ faculty is comprised of accomplished artists, filmmakers, musicians, and scholars who mentor and guide students on their artistic journeys.

California Institute of the Arts
It’s a good idea to look at these 33 interesting facts about California Institute of the Arts to know more about it.
- CalArts was founded by Walt Disney and his brother Roy Disney in 1961.
- The institute’s main campus is located in Valencia, California, within the Santa Clarita Valley.
- CalArts was established with the goal of providing a comprehensive and interdisciplinary education in the arts.
- The campus features a unique and modern architectural design that encourages artistic experimentation.
- The Walt Disney Modular Theater, located on campus, is named after Walt Disney, who played a pivotal role in founding the institute.
- CalArts offers undergraduate and graduate programs in various artistic disciplines, including visual arts, dance, theater, film, music, and more.
- The institute is known for its commitment to artistic freedom and encourages students to explore and experiment with different art forms.
- CalArts is home to the School of Art, School of Film/Video, School of Music, School of Dance, School of Theater, and the Sharon Disney Lund School of Dance.
- The REDCAT (Roy and Edna Disney/CalArts Theater) is an integral part of the CalArts campus and hosts various performing arts events, exhibitions, and screenings.
- The CalArts Community Arts Partnership (CAP) program provides arts education to underserved youth in the Los Angeles area.
- The Herb Alpert School of Music at CalArts offers programs in various music styles, including classical, jazz, world music, and experimental music.
- CalArts is known for its experimental and avant-garde approach to the arts, often pushing the boundaries of traditional artistic forms.
- The institute has a reputation for nurturing emerging talent, with many alumni becoming influential figures in the arts and entertainment industries.
- CalArts encourages cross-disciplinary collaboration, allowing students to take courses outside of their major.
- The Roy O. Disney Music Hall is a prominent venue on campus for musical performances and events.
- CalArts has a dedicated experimental animation program known for its innovative work in the field of animation.
- The CalArts Library is a valuable resource for students, offering an extensive collection of art-related materials and archives.
- The Character Animation program at CalArts has produced numerous animators who have worked on Disney and Pixar films.
- The Sharon Disney Lund School of Dance focuses on contemporary dance forms and has a strong emphasis on choreographic exploration.
- CalArts’ Experimental Sound Practices program encourages students to explore sound as an artistic medium.
- The Community Arts Partnership (CAP) Youth Theater Ensemble allows young actors to collaborate with professional theater artists.
- CalArts has a renowned Film Directing program that has produced many successful directors in the film industry.
- The institute is known for hosting events like the CalArts Halloween Party, which has become a popular tradition.
- CalArts is a hub for experimental and avant-garde theater, with a strong emphasis on original works and cutting-edge performances.
- The Character Animation program’s annual “Character Animation Producers’ Show” showcases student animations to industry professionals.
- CalArts offers opportunities for international study and exchange programs to provide students with global perspectives.
- The CalArts Community Arts Partnership (CAP) also extends its reach to the visual arts, offering art education programs to young artists.
- The institute’s alumni have won numerous awards, including Academy Awards (Oscars), Emmys, and Tonys.
- CalArts hosts visiting artists, performers, and filmmakers who interact with students through lectures, workshops, and collaborations.
- The Herb Alpert School of Music’s “Wild Beast” concert venue is known for its unique architecture and experimental music performances.
- CalArts is often recognized for its commitment to diversity and inclusion within its student body and faculty.
- The institute’s printmaking studio is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities for traditional and digital printmaking techniques.
- CalArts continues to play a vital role in shaping the contemporary art and entertainment landscape, fostering creativity and innovation among its students and alumni.
The California Institute of the Arts (CalArts) stands as a beacon of artistic freedom, innovation, and creative exploration. Founded by Walt Disney with a pioneering vision, it has nurtured generations of artists who have challenged conventions, pushed the boundaries of their chosen disciplines, and left an indelible mark on the world of arts and entertainment. With its commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration, avant-garde experimentation, and artistic diversity, CalArts has not only contributed to the growth of individual talent but has also shaped the trajectory of contemporary art and culture. As it continues to inspire, educate, and cultivate the next wave of artistic pioneers, CalArts remains an indispensable institution in the ever-evolving landscape of the arts.