Museum of Contemporary Art, Tucson

The Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) in Tucson, Arizona, is a vibrant cultural gem nestled in the heart of the city. Founded in 1997 by Julia Latané, James Graham, and David Wright, MOCA has become a cornerstone of Tucson’s arts district, offering an engaging and dynamic space for contemporary art enthusiasts. Whether you're an art aficionado or a casual visitor, MOCA Tucson promises a unique and enriching experience.

The Early Days: Toole Shed Studios

MOCA’s origins can be traced back to the Toole Shed Studios, established in 1992 under the Tucson Arts Coalition. This collaborative art space laid the groundwork for what would become the Museum of Contemporary Art. By 1997, the artists of Toole Shed Studios decided to take the next step in their journey, incorporating as an independent cooperative and receiving 501(c)3 status by the end of the year. The museum was officially born, with James Graham as the Founding Director, Julia Latané as President, and David Wright as Secretary and Treasurer.

In August 1998, MOCA found its first home in a warehouse space on East Toole Avenue. Volunteers worked tirelessly to transform the abandoned warehouse into a vibrant museum, boasting over four thousand square feet of exhibition space. This location served as MOCA’s base until 2010, when a new opportunity arose.

A New Era: The Fire Station

In 2009, Tucson’s Fire Station #1 was decommissioned, and a request for proposals was issued for the building’s “highest and best use.” MOCA saw this as a chance to secure a permanent space while preserving a piece of Arizona’s modernist architectural history. By 2010, the museum had relocated to the former fire department building on Church Avenue.

The transformation of the fire station into a museum was nothing short of remarkable. The main hall, once home to fire trucks, became the museum’s main exhibition space. The first-floor offices were converted into white-box galleries, perfect for showcasing intimate works of art. The firefighters’ quarters were repurposed into artist-in-residence accommodations, while the second-floor offices were transformed into administrative offices and an education space.

Exhibitions and Programs

Since moving to the fire station, MOCA Tucson has presented between eight and twelve exhibitions per year, featuring the works of local, regional, national, and international artists. The museum’s diverse programming ensures that there is always something new and exciting to see. From thought-provoking installations to cutting-edge multimedia works, MOCA’s exhibitions push the boundaries of contemporary art.

In addition to its exhibitions, MOCA has established an Artist-in-Residence Program, offering artists private studio and housing space, production stipends, and the opportunity to present a public program, exhibition, or lecture at the museum. This program has become highly competitive, attracting hundreds of applications each year for just seven annual slots.

MOCA also launched a Curator-in-Residence Program in 2019, providing museum professionals with time, space, and resources to develop exhibitions, conduct research, and engage with MOCA’s artists-in-residence. This program further enriches the museum’s offerings and fosters a collaborative and innovative environment.

Fundraisers and Community Engagement

MOCA Tucson hosts two major fundraisers each year: an annual Gala and a Fall Fundraiser. These events are essential for supporting the museum’s operations and programming. Every two years, the Gala features the Local Genius Awards, honoring visionary Tucsonans whose activities have a global impact and whose talents have been internationally recognized.

Community engagement is at the heart of MOCA’s mission. The museum offers a variety of public events, including the ArtNow! series, artist talks, dance performances, music events, and other celebrations of the arts. MOCA’s youth programming is particularly noteworthy, providing creative opportunities for underserved populations and fostering the next generation of artists and art enthusiasts.

Visiting MOCA Tucson

A visit to MOCA Tucson is a must for anyone interested in contemporary art. The museum’s striking modernist architecture and thoughtfully curated exhibitions create an inspiring and immersive experience. Whether you’re exploring the main exhibition hall or the intimate white-box galleries, you’ll find yourself captivated by the innovative works on display.

Take some time to explore the museum’s artist-in-residence accommodations and education spaces, which offer a glimpse into the creative processes of the artists and curators who call MOCA home. And don’t forget to check out the museum’s schedule of events – there’s always something exciting happening at MOCA Tucson.

In conclusion, the Museum of Contemporary Art in Tucson is more than just a museum – it’s a vibrant cultural hub that celebrates creativity, innovation, and community. With its rich history, dynamic exhibitions, and engaging programs, MOCA Tucson is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of contemporary art in the Southwest.