MoCA CT

Docent-Led Exhibition Tour
2025-01-25 13:00 - 14:30, 2025-01-18 13:00 - 14:30, 2025-01-11 13:00 - 14:30, 2025-01-04 13:00 - 14:30, 2024-12-28 13:00 - 14:30, 2024-12-21 13:00 - 14:30, 2024-12-14 13:00 - 14:30, 2024-12-07 13:00 - 14:30 (America/New_York) and 3 more dates | 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.

"On Fire" Exhibition Tour
2025-01-23 17:00 - 18:00 | MoCA Westport, 19 Newtown Turnpike, Westport, CT, 06880, United States
Exhibition Tour: ON FIRE: Energy, Climate, Infrastructure
Thursday, January 23, 2025, from 5:00-6:00 PM
Explore the groundbreaking ON FIRE: Energy, Climate, Infrastructure exhibition with an exclusive tour led by curators Anne Boberski and Ive Covaci, co-chairs of the WestPAC Committee. This thought-provoking exhibition features over 75 works spanning the 1930s to today, highlighting the intricate connections between energy, infrastructure, and the environment.
Gain unique insights into the inspiration behind key pieces, including Ralph L. Boyer’s Evolution of Heat, and discover how artists have responded to themes of sustainability, community resilience, and environmental change.
Learn more about the exhibition at mocact.org/exhibitions.
RSVP Here. Free with Exhibition Admission.

MLK Jr. Day 1/20 Recess Art Camps
2025-01-20 09:30 - 14:30 | MoCACT, 19 Newtown Turnpike, Westport, 06880, United States
AM Session:
Looking for something creative for your child to do on MLK Jr. Day? Drop off your Nursery – 1st grader from 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM for two hours of artsy fun!
What to pack: A nut-free snack and a water bottle.
What to wear: Clothing that can get messy.
Your child will have a wonderful time while you enjoy a bit of free time!
**Participants must be FULLY potty trained**
Register here!
Full Day Session:
Looking for something creative for your child to do on Monday, January 20th for MLK Jr. Day? Drop off your Kindergartener – 5th grader from 9:30AM to 2:30 PM for a day of artsy fun!
What to pack: A nut-free lunch and snack, and a water bottle.
What to wear: Clothing that can get messy.
Drop-off location: Academy doors located at the back of the building.
Your child will have a fantastic time while you enjoy a productive day!
**Participants must be FULLY potty trained**
Register here!

WestPAC & High School Exhibitions Opening Reception
2025-01-09 18:00 - 20:00 | MoCACT, 19 Newtown Turnpike, Westport, 06880, United States
Join us on Thursday, January 9, from 6 to 8 PM for the opening reception of two impactful exhibitions at MoCA CT. The Westport Public Art Collection’s On Fire: Energy, Climate, Infrastructure explores the urgent themes of energy, climate change, and the infrastructure shaping our lives, featuring powerful works that challenge us to reflect on our relationship with the planet.
Alongside this, Humans and Nature: A Changing Relationship highlights the creative voices of high school students as they examine the evolving bond between humanity and the natural world.
This event is open to the public and promises an evening of thought-provoking art and meaningful conversations about our environment. Registration is required, reserve your spot today, and join us as we celebrate the power of creativity to inspire change!
Free admission for all. RSVP Here.

Music Together
2024-12-11 16:00 - 16:45, 2024-12-04 16:00 - 16:45, 2024-11-20 16:00 - 16:45, 2024-11-13 16:00 - 16:45 | MoCACT, 19 Newtown Turnpike, Westport, 06880, United States
Oct 16th-Dec 11th. (No class on Nov 27th) | 4:00 – 4:45pm
Ages 4-8. (4 year olds can attend with their parents if needed.)
Fee – $280, includes take home recordings of the music.
Families can purchase a djembe drum (optional) or start with the drums provided .
Instructor: Jackie Jacobs, Director of Music Together of Fairfield County. Jackie is a master teacher trainer for early childhood music teachers and worldwide, with 30 years of experience.
Come Drum, Dance and Sing in a Rhythm Kids class ! Your child will learn basic djembe drumming and learn authentic drumming patterns from around the world as they participate in musical songs, dances, activities and games. They get to take the lead, create, and conduct their peers, which builds on their self esteem and self confidence. This class is designed to meet children where they are and build on their musical and creative skills. Every participant receives a songbook and recordings of the music we use in class so they can practice at home. Drums will be provided; purchase of a Djembe drum is encouraged but not required. 45 minutes.
Questions? Text at (203) 256-1656.
Register Here

Holiday Special with Kristen Young, violin and Joe Bush, piano
2024-12-07 19:00 - 20:30 | MoCACT, 19 Newtown Turnpike, Westport, 06880, United States
Join Kristen Young, violin and Joe Bush, piano for a festive holiday concert that beautifully blends classical masterpieces with your favorite holiday pop tunes! They will perform innovative arrangements that challenge traditional boundaries, creating a refreshing take on seasonal favorites. From the intricate harmonies of classical pieces to the lively rhythms of contemporary hits, this concert promises a captivating blend of sound that will resonate with all.
Click here to purchase tickets.

ColleCTomania Film Screening of 'Helvetica'
2024-12-05 17:00 - 18:30 | MoCACT, 19 Newtown Turnpike, Westport, 06880, United States
Upcoming Film Screening: Helvetica
December 5, from 5-6:30 PM

MoCA CT invites you to a special film screening on Thursday, December 5, at 5:00 PM. Dive into the fascinating world of typography with Gary Hustwit’s iconic documentary Helvetica.
In conjunction with our ColleCTomania exhibition, this event highlights the role of fonts in shaping design and culture. Following the screening, join curator Pamela Hovland for a discussion and Q&A session about the impact of type.
Reserve your spot today and be part of this creative exploration!
Doors open at 4:30 PM. Tickets available at the front door. Pre-register Here.

The 2024 Heida Hermanns International Music Competition
2024-11-23, 2024-11-22 | MoCACT, 19 Newtown Turnpike, Westport, 06880, United States
Join us for an exhilarating evening of music and artistry at the Heida Hermanns Piano Competition. Experience the brilliance of our three finalists as they perform captivating pieces, including a specially commissioned work by renowned American composer Lowell Liebermann. Click here for more information about the Heida.
Buy Tickets Here.
This two-day extravaganza is more than a competition—it’s a celebration of piano artistry featuring world-renowned judges, special events, and opportunities to immerse yourself in the vibrant world of classical music.
Friday, November 22

6:00 PM – 6:45 PM: Welcome Reception with Hors d’oeuvres

Begin the evening mingling with fellow enthusiasts and perhaps catch a glimpse of our esteemed jury and finalists.

7:00 PM – 9:45 PM: Finalists’ Performances

Experience the exceptional talent of our three finalists. Witness the future of classical music as they showcase their technical mastery and artistic expression.

7:00 PM – 7:45 PM: Performance by Finalist 1
8:00 PM – 8:45 PM: Performance by Finalist 2
9:00 PM – 9:45 PM: Performance by Finalist 3

Saturday, November 23

5:00 PM – 6:00 PM: Mini Recital and Book Talk by Inna Faliks

Join Heida Final Round Judge Inna Faliks for an intimate recital and insightful discussion about her new memoir, Weight in the Fingertips. Gain personal insights into her journey from Soviet Ukraine to the world stage, and how her experiences have shaped her illustrious career.

6:00 PM – 7:00 PM: Hors d’oeuvres and Cocktails

Enjoy delightful food and drinks while engaging in conversations with fellow guests, the jury, and the finalists. It’s a perfect opportunity to share your passion for music with other like-minded people.

7:00 PM – 9:00 PM: Judges’ Performance and Awards Announcement

Be captivated by exclusive performances from our prestigious jury members:

Frederic Chiu
Miki Aoki
Julia Siciliano
Alexei Tartakovsky

The 2024 Heida Hermanns International Music Competition, hosted by MoCA CT, is for talented pianists ages 18-35 worldwide to compete. We aim to showcase exceptional piano performances and promote music entrepreneurship in musicians. The competition includes an online preliminary round and an in-person final round where participants demonstrate their technical prowess, interpretive skills, and musical expression. It’s a platform for emerging artists to gain recognition and connect with the global music community.
The winner receives a cash prize of $10,000; second prize is $5,000, and third prize is $2,500. This year’s prizes are generously sponsored by Norman and Suzanne Sorensen. In addition to a cash prize, the Winner will receive an invitation to perform a solo recital at MoCA CT the following year. Finalists will be provided with transportation accommodations and lodging with a host family for the final round.

Celebrating Lowell Liebermann’s ‘Nocturne No. 12’ at the 2024 Heida Hermanns Competition

At once unabashedly romantic and modern, American composer Lowell Liebermann is internationally recognized as an artist of uncommon profundity and popularity. Time Magazine proclaimed: “Now brazen and glittering, now radiantly visionary…the work of a composer unafraid of grand gestures and openhearted lyricism.”The 2024 Heida Hermanns International Music Competition will feature Lowell Liebermann’s commissioned piece, “Nocturne No. 12,” marking the first time the Heida Competition has commissioned a work. This decision highlights our commitment to fostering creativity and showcasing contemporary talent. Liebermann’s distinctive style, characterized by rich harmonies and evocative melodies, resonates deeply with audiences, making his work both accessible and thought-provoking. “Nocturne No. 12” will be performed by all finalists, enriching our program and celebrating diverse musical voices. This inclusion not only underscores our dedication to innovation but also offers a fresh perspective on modern composition. We are most grateful to the Maurer Foundation for their gracious support of this endeavor.

Ceramic Multi-Bowls Workshop with Leah Corbett
2024-11-21 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.

Advanced Creative Writing Class
2024-11-19 10:30 - 11:30, 2024-11-12 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/

Art Unleashed: A creative Writing Adventure
2024-11-19 09:00 - 10:00, 2024-11-12 09:00 - 10:00 | MoCACT, 19 Newtown Turnpike, Westport, 06880, United States
Register here.
Ages 12-18
Ever wondered what a painting might say if it could talk? Or What secrets a sculpture might whisper? In this four-part workshop, we’ll dive into the world of art and storytelling, using the museum’s amazing collection to spark our own tales. We’ll uncover hidden stories in brushstrokes, imagine the lives of the people in portraits, and create new worlds inspired by abstract shapes and colors. No art or writing experience needed – just a curious mind and willingness to have 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

Holiday Marketplace
2024-11-16 12:00 - 16:00 | MoCACT, 19 Newtown Turnpike, Westport, 06880, United States
Shop Local & Find the Perfect Holiday Gift
November 15th and 16th, 2024 – Discover one-of-a-kind holiday gifts at MoCA CT’s Holiday Marketplace on Friday, November 15th and Saturday, November 16th from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM at 19 Newtown Turnpike, Westport, CT.
Shop a curated selection of local artisans, offering unique, items perfect for everyone on your list. Plus, your $10 ticket includes admission to MoCA CT’s current exhibitions, blending holiday shopping with a cultural experience.
Register Now

Holiday Marketplace
2024-11-15 12:00 - 16:00 | MoCACT, 19 Newtown Turnpike, Westport, 06880, United States
MoCA CT Presents the 2nd Annual Holiday Marketplace
November 15 & 16, 2024
Get a head start on your holiday shopping while supporting local artisans and vendors at MoCA CT’s 2nd Annual Indoor Holiday Marketplace! Join us on Friday, November 15th and Saturday, November 16th from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM, and discover an incredible array of unique, handcrafted gifts perfect for everyone on your list.
This festive event brings together some of the region’s best artisans, offering an eclectic selection of items including hand-poured candles, custom-made jewelry, artisanal pottery, handmade greeting cards, and much more. Whether you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind gift or a special treat for yourself, the Holiday Marketplace has something for everyone.
Not only is this the ideal opportunity to find meaningful, handcrafted gifts, but your purchases will also directly support local artists and makers, keeping your holiday shopping both thoughtful and community-focused.
On Saturday, November 16th, immerse yourself in the sounds of the season with a special musical performance from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM by Harbor Blues, the all-female a cappella group from Green’s Farms Academy. Their beautiful harmonies will add a festive spirit to your shopping experience.
Families are welcome! MoCA CT will host a Kids Art Drop-In activity, where children can explore their creativity while you shop. Our galleries will also be open, allowing you to enjoy contemporary art as part of this vibrant community event.
Admission is just $10, and MoCA CT members attend for free, making this the perfect opportunity to enjoy a day out while supporting local artisans, all in one place.

Event Details:
Friday, November 15th | 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Saturday, November 16th | 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Special Performance: Harbor Blues (Saturday) | 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM

Admission: $10 (Free MoCA members)
Don’t miss this chance to check off your holiday shopping list with unique, handcrafted treasures while supporting local vendors. MoCA CT’s Holiday Marketplace is a celebration of art, creativity, and community, and we can’t wait to share it with you!
Register Now
Vendors Include:

Wendy Harris Photos
KVO Collections
Robin Ann Jewelry
Bellakai Pearls
Emmy Starr Designs
Bead Free Forever
Sabina Furst Designs
Tocco Studio
Karma Knitted
Pina Bird Books
Oak And Vale
Kansha Kards
Komfort-Zone
Prepchester
Fletch
SantM
Pottery by Leah Corbett
Michaela Wales Art
Vivid Cottage
The PEHT Shop
goldno.8
Jackie Cicogna Millinery
Woodpecker Creations

Lunchtime Sound Bath Meditation
2024-11-13 12:30 - 13:30 | MoCACT, 19 Newtown Turnpike, Westport, 06880, United States
Register Here.
Take a break from your busy day and chill out with a lunchtime sound bath meditation with the Hummingbird Healing Center. Let the soothing, healing sacred sounds wash over you for a full hour while relaxing on a yoga mat or chair. Afterwards, peruse our current exhibit, CollectCTomania, of over 100 Swiss posters from collector Tom Strong. It’s a feast for your senses. Come join us! Hummingbird founder, and certified sound healer Lisa Pak, uses a wide palette of instruments including the Indian shruti box, Crystal bowls, Himalayan bowls, gongs, Native American Flute, vocals, percussion and more! Sound baths have been scientifically proven to reduce stress, strengthen the immune system, enhance creativity and just feel good! Join us for this special collaboration of art and sound!
