For nearly 200 years, our name has evolved in response to the needs of its time while remaining rooted in making, innovation, and creative inquiry.

Founded in 1826 as the Maryland Institute for the Promotion of the Mechanic Arts (1826), the institution emerged from a belief that knowledge should be applied, shared, and useful to society. As the Industrial Revolution reshaped cities and labor, the Institute became a focal point for exhibitions, education, and public engagement, earning recognition simply as the Maryland Institute (mid-late 1800s).

By the 20th century, as art and design education became more formalized and degree-granting, the name Maryland Institute, College of Art (early-mid 1900s) affirmed both academic rigor and creative focus. In time, Maryland Institute College of Art (late 1900s-present), known globally as MICA, came to represent a nationally recognized leader in art and design education.

Vicky Pass, chair of History of Art, Design, and Visual Culture, sees that the history unfolding every day in the classroom. “MICA is alive with conversation between the past, the present, and the future,” she says, “energized by faculty, staff, alumni, and students whose curiosity keeps history vital and will sustain this community for the next 200 years.”

Across two centuries, MICA’s name has reflected its expanding vision, growing impact, and an enduring commitment to creativity as a force for progress.