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Announcing the “On The Art of Collecting” Series

+ + + + + May 9, 2025

Detail of work on paper, Liz Leggett MoCA \ CT presents On the Art of Collecting June 2 — November 17, 2025 MoCA\CT will be presenting a series of panel discussions and a field trip on collecting art, designed to appeal to a broad audience — from absolute newcomers to seasoned collectors. The structure of six offerings spanning six months provides a balance between theory and practical advice, and includes experiences that will help attendees gain confidence to engage with the art world firsthand. Our panel of experts includes curators, artists, archivists, gallerists, art advisors, lawyers, tax and financial planners, and more. Topics to be addressed include: – What it means to be an art collector today – How to define a collecting theme and set collecting goals – Finding affordable art in a variety of places; balancing passion with budget considerations – Caring for and documenting your art; appraising your art; insuring your art – Legal issues and tax implications related to art ownership, acquisition and sales Five programs will take place at MoCA\CT in Westport CT; one program will include a tour of galleries in NYC. Program Overview Session 101: Introduction to Collecting Art June 2, 2025 — 5:30pm Session 201: Building + […]

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2025 Black History Month

+ + + + + January 8, 2025

MoCA CT Celebrates Black History Month with Creative and Cultural Events This February, MoCA CT will host a series of events in honor of Black History Month, focusing on the rich cultural contributions and creativity of the African diaspora. The series will highlight emerging Black artists and provide a platform for their work, fostering greater visibility and professional growth. These events will also connect with local communities and align with current exhibitions, such as ON FIRE: Energy, Climate, Infrastructure and Human and Nature: A Changing Relationship. MoCA CT is dedicated to celebrating and integrating Black voices in the arts year-round. Event Lineup: Film Screening & Q&A – Thursday, February 13, 2025, at 7:00 PM Screening DELA: The Making of El Anatsui, a documentary on the Ghanaian sculptor El Anatsui. Film maker Oyiza Adaba from Africa Related Inc. will join for a post-screening Q&A, tying the film into MoCA CT’s exhibitions on the role of recycled materials in art and climate issues. Register Here. Soulful Expressions – Saturday, February 15, 2025, from 7:00–9:00 PM An evening of poetry by Sahmra Sawyer, music by pianist Joe Bush, dance by Jeffline Saint Louis, and food by Jamaican Chef Dré Sawyers of Food by […]

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MoCA CT Announces Departure of Executive Director Ruth Mannes

+ + + + + January 1, 2025

MoCA CT announces that after five years Ruth Mannes, who has served as Executive Director has stepped down from her position. During her tenure, Mannes has been instrumental in advancing MoCA’s mission and enhancing its reputation as a vital hub for the arts community. Under Mannes’ leadership, MoCA solidified its standing as a beacon for the arts, nurturing artistic expression and meaningful connections. Her contributions have amplified MoCA’s commitment to fostering innovation, learning, and community engagement through a diverse range of exhibitions, performing arts events, and educational initiatives. Ruth led the MoCA team to welcome 100,000 visitors for the past four years and 26 dynamic exhibitions by esteemed artists such as Helmet Lang, Anselm Reyle, and Ann Weiner. The team presented 60 unforgettable performances by emerging and accomplished musicians including Wynton Marsalis, Samara Joy, and the Danish String Quartet as well as establishing MoCA as the home of the Heida Hermanns International Music Competition. During her time at MoCA, the team created robust educational programs such as Camp MoCA and other programs that have brought in 4,000 learners of all ages. Board Chair William D. Felton expressed gratitude for Mannes’ contributions, stating, “We are grateful to Ruth for her many […]

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Now MoCA CT

+ + + + + June 25, 2024

While our roots are in Westport, our impact and reach extend across the entire state of Connecticut. The new name, MoCA CT, better represents our commitment to serving and engaging with communities throughout Connecticut. The name MoCA CT emphasizes our dedication to inclusivity and accessibility. It signals that we welcome artists, visitors, and participants from all corners of the state, fostering a sense of belonging and community. Our mission is to celebrate contemporary art and foster a creative, engaging environment for all. The new name aligns more closely with this mission by removing geographic limitations and highlighting our statewide aspirations.

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Janice Egan Appointed Senior Director of Philanthropy at MoCA

+ + + + + May 10, 2024

We are excited to welcome Janice Egan to our team as the Senior Director of Philanthropy. Janice arrives with a wealth of experience, bringing nearly two decades of expertise in philanthropic fundraising from the higher education sector. She has a deep passion for the arts and a commitment to community engagement. Her role signifies an important addition to MoCA, aiming to further our mission of enriching lives through art, education, and creative expression.  Janice has an impressive background in building and nurturing philanthropic relationships, managing significant programs, and identifying strategic growth opportunities. Her previous positions, including Director of Parent and Family Engagement and Philanthropy and Senior Development Officer at Lafayette College, have equipped her with the necessary skills to enhance MoCA’s philanthropic efforts and deepen our impact within the community.  As the Senior Director of Philanthropy, Janice will focus on strengthening MoCA’s engagement with individual donors and exploring new avenues for philanthropic support. “Janice’s addition to our team represents a pivotal moment for MoCA. Her rich experience in philanthropy and her passion for the arts will play a crucial role in driving our mission forward,” states Ruth Mannes, Executive Director. 

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