MoCA CT

Exhibition Hours
2024-09-07 12:00 - 16:00, 2024-09-08 12:00 - 16:00, 2024-09-12 12:00 - 16:00, 2024-09-13 12:00 - 16:00 (America/New_York) | MoCACT, 19 Newtown Turnpike, Westport, 06880, United States
Visit the exhibition, ColleCTomania between 12-4 PM.
Register Here.
About ColleCTomania:
This exhilarating exhibition displaying over 140 Swiss posters from the renowned collector Tom Strong. Strong is a New Haven, Connecticut-based graphic designer, photographer and collector who has spent sixty years amassing, displaying, sharing, and living amongst his archive. The exhibition, curated by Pamela Hovland and Karen Salsgiver, includes a widely diverse range of posters from the 1930s to the present.

Switzerland’s design culture has had a significant influence on the discipline of graphic design. Swiss posters in particular, especially those designed during the 1950s and 60s, have attained iconic status and are part of design education in schools across the globe. Created at uniform scale to be displayed in the streets of Zurich, Lucerne and Basel, these posters are now highly collectible, preserved in the archives of major museums and reproduced in art and design books.
Yale University’s graphic design program, the first in this country, was critical in disseminating the work and ideas of Swiss designers. Several influential practitioners were invited to New Haven to teach courses and workshops to students, including Tom Strong, eager to experiment with typography, form and craft. When Yale’s design graduates scattered around Connecticut and the country as both practicing and teaching designers, the visual language and ideology of the ‘Swiss International Style’ spread far and wide.

The poster as a large, public, graphic form has held its prominent place throughout the history of design. Tom Strong’s vast collection of Swiss posters, accumulated over six decades, spans the mid-century to today. His archive includes diverse and boundary-breaking visual strategies employed through inventive uses of type and typography, image-making, layering and collage. The posters illustrate myriad expressions in style, subject matter and ever-evolving technologies. Strong’s posters showcase both the outsized influence of Swiss design as well as the contemporary experimentation that builds on that legacy. Seeing the posters fill the gallery walls is pure visual delight.
ColleCTomania invites the viewer to interact with the posters in a way that correlates to the way we interact with social content; The fast pace consumption of images and text and managing to remember the most impactful or relating subjects. The idea of swiping as we see content is no different from how we view art in any institution. We tend to stand for the works that render us speechless and with ColleCTomania, the wide number of posters that are being displayed serves as a compelling contrast to this belief.
“Why do I continue to collect Swiss posters? I guess you like Beethoven and then Stravinsky comes along with different principles, blows your head off. And then you go further, and you find more composers who you never knew anything about. The body and the brain and the ear are accustomed to surprise and difference and beauty. Other than that, I can’t defend it or describe it. These posters have power. You can’t deny it.”- Tom Strong

Docent-Led Exhibition Tour
2024-09-07 13:00 - 14:30, 2024-09-14 13:00 - 14:30, 2024-09-21 13:00 - 14:30 | MoCACT, 19 Newtown Turnpike, Westport, 06880, United States
Learn more about the current exhibition from an expert docent. No advance registration required; all tours included in Museum admission. Remember, gallery admission is FREE for MoCA Members.

Artisan Marketplace Summer Series
2024-09-08 12:00 - 16:00 | MoCA Westport, 19 Newtown Turnpike, Westport, CT, 06880, United States
Announcing our Artisan Marketplace Summer Series, outdoor events that celebrate local artisans and their creations.
Outdoor Artisan Marketplaces will take place on select Sundays throughout the summer from 12p-4p:

June 16
June 30
July 14
July 28
August 4
August 18
September 8

This year’s Artisan Marketplace will be held outdoors, providing a beautiful and spacious setting for visitors to explore a wide variety of unique, handcrafted items. From jewelry and pottery to textiles and artwork, there will be something for everyone to enjoy and appreciate. The galleries inside will also be open to enjoy our latest exhibition.
The Artisan Marketplace Summer Series is a perfect opportunity for families and friends to spend a leisurely afternoon supporting and discovering the talent and creativity of local artisans. We continue to accept vendor applications – click here to apply!

ColleCTomania: Christopher Pullman, collector and designer
2024-09-08 16:30 - 17:30 | MoCACT, 19 Newtown Turnpike, Westport, 06880, United States
Register Now
Christopher Pullman is a Cambridge-based designer and artist who has received highest honors from the American Institute of Graphic Arts. For 35 years, Chris shaped design and branding at Boston public broadcasting network, WGBH. A widely-published design leader and lecturer, Chris earned his MFA from Yale, where he served for decades as a Senior Critic in Design.
This exhibition was curated and designed by Pamela Hovland and Karen Salsgiver. Pamela is a Wilton-based designer, writer, visual activist and Senior Critic at Yale, where she earned her MFA. Karen is a Westport-based designer, writer, and strategist who earned her MFA at Yale. She is a visiting critic in the Yale School of Art’s graphic design program.
Free for MoCA Members; $10 General Admission

Masterpiece Makers: Crafting Confidence for Boys
2024-09-13 13:00 - 14:00, 2024-09-20 13:00 - 14:00, 2024-09-27 13:00 - 14:00 | MoCACT, 19 Newtown Turnpike, Westport, 06880, United States
Register here.
For ages 8-11.
It can be hard to find confidence as a young boy in today’s complicated world. This group will focus on boosting self esteem and coping skills through art, mindfulness, and friendship. Over the span of 6 weekly sessions, the boys will complete projects to help them build confidence and emotional awareness, while fostering the bond of friendship through a shared experience with one another. There will be several take home items to serve as long term reinforcement for the concepts taught.
Fostering self-esteem and confidence through mindfulness, friendship, and art.
Led by Kimberly Shapiro, MS, NCC, School Counselor/SEL Coach.
**No class on 10/11 for Yom Kippur
About the Instructor:
Kimberly Laiso Shapiro is a compassionate and experienced counselor and coach, specializing in helping children with reserved or mild-moderately anxious temperaments. With a Master of Science degree and certification as a National Certified Counselor, Kimberly offers a unique, empathetic approach that empowers clients to focus on the present and build a future they can be proud of.
With 10 years of school counseling experience under my belt, I have learned a lot about the troubles that children are currently facing. While difficult behaviors, self-harm, and very strong emotions are beyond my current scope, I am happy to work with children struggling with self-esteem, mild anxiety, and low confidence.
https://www.newtownbee.com/02072020/snapshot-kimberly-shapiro/
https://www.kindmindscoach.com/

EmpowerHer: Building Confidence Through Art
2024-09-13 14:00 - 15:00, 2024-09-20 14:00 - 15:00, 2024-09-27 14:00 - 15:00 | MoCACT, 19 Newtown Turnpike, Westport, 06880, United States
Register here.
Ages 8-11
It can be hard to find confidence as a young girl in today’s complicated world. This group will focus on boosting self esteem, self love, and confidence through art, mindfulness, and friendship. Over the span of 6 weekly sessions, the girls will complete projects to help them to find their inner light, while fostering the bond of friendship through a shared experience with one another. There will be several take home items to serve as long term reinforcement for the concepts taught.
Fostering self-esteem and confidence through mindfulness, friendship and art. Led by Kimberly Shapiro, MS, NCC, School Counselor/SEL Coach
** No class on 10/11 for Yom Kippur
About the Instructor:
Valerie Delp of Two Roads Learning:
As a dedicated educator with over 25 years of experience, I’ve had the privilege of nurturing the minds of diverse learners and crafting engaging learning journeys. Currently pursuing a Masters in Science in Learning Experience Design and Educational Technology, I’m constantly seeking innovative ways to shape the future of education and to touch the lives of my students.
My current role involves creating vibrant and tailored curricula for homeschooling students. I am incredibly invested in finding opportunities for my students, especially those who are neurodivergent learners. My classroom is a place where I am committed to providing a supportive and inclusive environment where every individual’s unique strengths are celebrated. My classroom is not just a place of learning; it’s a space where laughter, exploration, and growth intersect.
I firmly believe that learning extends beyond textbooks and exams. It’s about nurturing a lifelong thirst for knowledge, and I instill this philosophy in my students. With my students, I champion the process of trying new things, making mistakes, and confronting challenges. Through these experiences, we cultivate resilience and develop a genuine love for learning.
https://www.facebook.com/TwoRoadsLearning/?_rdr
https://www.lovetoknow.com/about/team/valorie-delp

Imagination in Motion: A Creative Drawing Adventure
2024-09-14 10:00 - 11:00, 2024-09-21 10:00 - 11:00 | MoCACT, 19 Newtown Turnpike, Westport, 06880, United States
Register Now.
Unlock your child’s creativity in our weekend drawing class, taught by an award-winning artist with a Master’s degree in the arts. This class is designed to give young learners a broad sampling of various art mediums, allowing them to grow and experiment in their unique artistic journey. Using MoCA CT’s grounds, garden, and gallery exhibitions as inspiration, students will explore various artistic mediums while developing their technical skills and discovering their own creative voice.
Students will explore the world of pen and ink, pencils, markers, illustration, and more. Through hands-on instruction, they’ll learn essential skills such as color theory, drawing techniques, value, shading, and scale. This class is perfect for budding artists eager to develop their skills and express their creativity.

Canvas and Color: Acrylic and Watercolor Adventures
2024-09-14 11:30 - 12:30, 2024-09-21 11:30 - 12:30 | MoCACT, 19 Newtown Turnpike, Westport, 06880, United States
Register Here.
In this engaging class, young artists will explore the world of acrylics and beginner watercolor painting. Drawing inspiration from MoCA CT’s grounds, garden, and gallery exhibitions, students will learn the technical approaches to these mediums while discovering their own creative voice.
Unlock your child’s creativity in our weekend painting class, led by an award-winning artist with a Master’s degree in the arts. Through specific exercises, students will enhance their painting skills, focusing on color mixing, composition, and technique. This class is perfect for young learners eager to develop their artistic abilities in a supportive and inspiring environment.

Poetry in Nature Class
2024-09-17 09:00 - 10:00, 2024-09-24 09:00 - 10:00 | MoCACT, 19 Newtown Turnpike, Westport, 06880, United States
Poetry in Nature: Where Words & Wild Things Meet!
Register here.
Ages 10-14
In this hands-on poetry workshop, we’ll explore MoCA’s stunning grounds, using nature’s wonders as our inspiration. We’ll write poems among the trees, discover hidden rhythms in flower petals, and let the birdsong spark our creativity. No poetry experience needed – just a willingness to be outside and have a whole lot of fun with words!
About the Instructor:
Valerie Delp of Two Roads Learning:
As a dedicated educator with over 25 years of experience, I’ve had the privilege of nurturing the minds of diverse learners and crafting engaging learning journeys. Currently pursuing a Masters in Science in Learning Experience Design and Educational Technology, I’m constantly seeking innovative ways to shape the future of education and to touch the lives of my students.
My current role involves creating vibrant and tailored curricula for homeschooling students. I am incredibly invested in finding opportunities for my students, especially those who are neurodivergent learners. My classroom is a place where I am committed to providing a supportive and inclusive environment where every individual’s unique strengths are celebrated. My classroom is not just a place of learning; it’s a space where laughter, exploration, and growth intersect.
I firmly believe that learning extends beyond textbooks and exams. It’s about nurturing a lifelong thirst for knowledge, and I instill this philosophy in my students. With my students, I champion the process of trying new things, making mistakes, and confronting challenges. Through these experiences, we cultivate resilience and develop a genuine love for learning.
https://www.facebook.com/TwoRoadsLearning/?_rdr
https://www.lovetoknow.com/about/team/valorie-delp

Advanced Creative Writing Class
2024-09-17 10:30 - 11:30, 2024-09-24 10:30 - 11:30 | MoCACT, 19 Newtown Turnpike, Westport, 06880, United States
Register Here.
For ages 12-18
Calling all passionate young writers! Step into the inspiring atmosphere of the art museum and take your writing to the next level. This advanced workshop is designed for dedicated middle and high school students who are eager to hone their skills and explore new creative territory.
Each session will begin with a challenging writing exercise or prompt designed to challenge students and their writing skills. We’ll delve into techniques for developing characters, constructing compelling plots, crafting vivid descriptions, and experimenting with different genres and styles. The second half of each class will be dedicated to your own writing projects. Whether you’re working on a short story, novel, play, or poems, you’ll have the opportunity to share your work, receive constructive feedback from your peers and instructor, and collaborate on new ideas. We’ll also explore how art can inspire our writing, drawing on the museum’s vast collection to spark our imaginations.
This is not your average writing class. It’s a supportive community of young writers, a space for experimentation and growth, and a chance to discover the full potential of your unique voice. Taught by Valorie Delp, founder of KVD Education & Two Roads Learning.
** MoCA CT has regular Open Mic events where you can share your work with an audience.
About the Instructor:
Kimberly Shapiro, MS, NCC:
Kimberly Laiso Shapiro is a compassionate and experienced counselor and coach, specializing in helping children with reserved or mild-moderately anxious temperaments. With a Master of Science degree and certification as a National Certified Counselor, Kimberly offers a unique, empathetic approach that empowers clients to focus on the present and build a future they can be proud of.
With 10 years of school counseling experience under my belt, I have learned a lot about the troubles that children are currently facing. While difficult behaviors, self-harm, and very strong emotions are beyond my current scope, I am happy to work with children struggling with self-esteem, mild anxiety, and low confidence.
https://www.newtownbee.com/02072020/snapshot-kimberly-shapiro/
https://www.kindmindscoach.com/

Bundle Dying with Laura Berkowitz Gilbert
2024-09-19 18:30 - 20:00 | MoCACT, 19 Newtown Turnpike, Westport, 06880, United States
Register Here.
Join fiber artist Laura Berkowitz Gilbert of Tocco Studio as she unveils the secrets of bundle dyeing—a technique that uses steam to infuse plant-based colors onto fibers. This eco-friendly method not only produces stunning results but also conserves water compared to traditional dye baths.
In this workshop, you’ll use a variety of flowers and extracts to create a unique botanical pattern on a lightweight cotton tote bag or fabric. Whether you’re a seasoned artisan or a curious beginner, come to MoCA CT to explore creativity and sustainability. Celebrate the last traces of summer and the flowers from Laura’s garden as you create your own piece of art.

Ceramic Multi-Bowls Workshop with Leah Corbett
2024-09-20 18:30 - 20:30, 2024-09-26 18:30 - 20:30 | MoCACT, 19 Newtown Turnpike, Westport, 06880, United States
Register here.

Make your own multi-bowl centerpiece with Fairfield-based ceramicist Leah Corbett. “Multi-bowls” are one of Leah’s most popular forms, and can be used for numerous things like snack boards, jewelry catchers, air plant displays, or general organizers for keys & miscellaneous items. In this two-hour workshop, Leah will guide you through easy steps to pinch & smooth multiple bowl forms out of clay, attach them, and manipulate their shapes to fit your own creative style. We provide the clay, tools & glaze options. You get your hands a little dirty, choose your glaze, and pick up your finished creation a few weeks later. This is a great intro to hand-building class to get some basic knowledge that will take you far in the world of pottery.

Performing Arts at MoCA: Steven Feifke Trio – Jazz at Lincoln Center Emerging Artist
2024-09-20 19:00 - 20:30 | MoCA Westport, 19 Newtown Turnpike, Westport, CT, 06880, United States
Register now!
Step into the electrifying world of jazz with GRAMMY-winning pianist and composer Steven Feifke. Celebrated by JAZZIZ and DownBeat magazine as one of today’s most exciting jazz artists, Feifke is set to deliver a performance that’s more than just music—it’s a powerful, immersive experience.
Feifke’s dynamic performances have captivated audiences on FOX, NBC, and CBS, and now he’s bringing his trio’s infectious rhythms to MoCA CT. This is your chance to witness a master at work, blending classic jazz with fresh, groundbreaking compositions that are redefining the genre.
Join us on September 20th for an unforgettable evening as Feifke and his trio transform MoCA into a vibrant musical haven. From soulful melodies to electrifying grooves, each moment promises to take you on a journey through the rich tapestry of modern jazz. Be sure to arrive early, starting at 6:30 PM, to explore our current exhibition, enjoy a drink, and soak in the buzzing atmosphere before the music begins. Don’t miss this chance to witness jazz at its finest.

Candle Making with Oh D'Luxe Candle Company
2024-09-25 18:00 - 20:00 | MoCACT, 19 Newtown Turnpike, Westport, 06880, United States
Learn candle making with expert instructor Oddette, from Oh D’Luxe Candle Company. Participants will learn about the different types of wax, wick selection, fragrances and how to blend those all together to customize one beautiful candle of your own. You’ll choose your favorite fragrance or blend a unique fragrance of your own, design your own label, and watch as your creations come to life. Oh D’Luxe candle company is a candle and home fragrance company located in Bridgeport Connecticut. All our products are eco-friendly, vegan, non-toxic, cruelty-free, sustainable, crafted with specially curated fragrances meticulously blended in-house, ensuring their uniqueness and handmade in small batches to ensure quality.
Register Here.

Paint, Sip and Enjoy: A Fall Evening of Glass Art and Aquila's Nest Wine
2024-09-26 18:00 - 20:00 | MoCACT, 19 Newtown Turnpike, Westport, 06880, United States
Join us for a delightful evening of glass painting and wine tasting. Connect with friends and create beautiful alcohol ink-painted wine glasses while enjoying a selection from Aquila’s Nest Vineyards. Known for its exceptional wines and recently recognized as the Best Winery in Connecticut for 2024, Aquila’s Nest Vineyards offers a climate-neutral certified, experience-focused setting.
Alcohol ink, a vibrant and fast-drying pigment mixed with alcohol, allows you to create abstract and watercolor-like effects on non-porous surfaces. This event combines creativity with fine wine, making for a memorable fall night of art and flavor.
Register here.

MoCA Some Noise: Open Mic Night
2024-09-27 18:30 - 20:00 | MoCACT, 19 Newtown Turnpike, Westport, 06880, United States
Register to participate or attend here.
Join us for an Open Mic night at MoCA CT featuring acoustic music, poetry, and slam poetry on Friday, September 27 from 6:30-8:30 PM. Everyone is invited to participate and attend.
Open Mic night is FREE for Members to watch; MoCA Member Participation is FREE; General Admission $10; Participation Fee $5
To give everyone their time to shine, we ask that all participants keep their set to 5 minutes max.
Contact Kristen at kristen@mocact.org with questions.
