MOCA TUCSON INSPIRES NEW WAYS OF THINKING THROUGH THE CULTIVATION, EXHIBITION, AND INTERPRETATION OF CONTEMPORARY ART.
History
Established by artists in 1997, MOCA is Tucson’s only museum devoted exclusively to contemporary art from around the globe. Housed in a repurposed firehouse in Downtown Tucson, MOCA Tucson applies creative solutions to the problems of today and tomorrow through the vehicle of contemporary art. We create programming that is ambitious, innovative, and that is responsive to the wants and needs of our community. A pioneering museum of its kind in the community, MOCA Tucson currently hosts rotating exhibitions by locally, nationally, and internationally renowned contemporary artists—critical exhibitions that spur dialogue and that foster empathy between artists and audiences. Our bold programming is highly engaging for diverse audiences and creates a welcoming, inviting space for visitors to learn more about the changing world we live in. MOCA Tucson is an important incubator and connector for contemporary art across the Southwest region and beyond.
MOCA Tucson resides on the ancestral lands of the Tohono O’odham people.
Board of Directors
Kira Dixon Weinstein, President
Danny Vinik, Vice President
Luis Soto, Secretary
Justin Martinez, Treasurer
Michael Bradford
John Burcher
Anthony J. Canchola
Samuel Ireland
Courtney Johnson
Pablo Kyriakis
Lauren Pew
Evie Stefenson-Marquart
David Taylor
Randi Dorman, Emeritus
Terri Kessler, Emeritus
Joanne Stuhr, Emeritus
AMBASSADORS
Carolyn Bass
Burak Bekat
Annamaria Biagini
Karen Christensen
Darbi Davis
Logan Havens
Hope Hennessey
Liz Hernandez
Claudia Kappl Joy
Rick Joy
Angela Kapp
Kristopher Kerry
Terri Kessler
Lisa Lovallo
Edward Marquart
Olivia Miller
Mary Okoye
Ana Perez-Arrieta
Jane Poynter
Anne Ranek
Stacey Richter
Jerusha Schmalzel
Judith Sensibar
Yu Yu Shiratori
Daphne Srinivasan
Kerry Winkelman
Amy Zuckerman
Elizabeth Cherry, Emeritus
John Hudak, Emeritus
Olivier Mosset, Emeritus
STAFF
Laura Copelin
Curator-at-Large
Carrie Hess
Finance Director
What do you do at MOCA?
I manage the numbers!
Why work at MOCA?
I believe contemporary art is an important part of our culture, especially as Tucson continues to grow. The conversations it inspires us to have and the inspiration it instills in me to continue to think outside of the box, are truly rewarding reasons to work at MOCA.
What do you do when you’re not at MOCA?
I enjoy getting lost in the mountains for days, drinking good beer, and eating good food.
Kevin Burns
Development Manager
Dominic Valencia
Exhibition Manager & Registrar
What do you do at MOCA?
Realize and maintain exhibitions. I work directly with artists, install and care for artwork, source materials, etc. The fun stuff 🙂
Why work at MOCA?
As someone born and raised in Tucson, I’ve always appreciated the unique role MOCA plays in our community. MOCA provides an inviting and accessible environment for engaging in the global conversation of contemporary art, while still embodying the diverse and beautiful spirit of Tucson. It is a privilege to be a part of this institution- there’s nowhere I’d rather be!
What do you do when you’re not at MOCA?
When I’m not at MOCA, I’m traveling, I’m recording electronic music, I’m working in my studio, and I’m loving the sunshine, but still hoping for some rain! A perfect day probably involves a hike through our beautiful desert, a great cup of coffee, and my field recorder.
Alexis Wilkinson
Assistant Curator
What do you do at MOCA?
I conceptualize and realize exhibitions and public programming.
Why work at MOCA?
Art can cultivate expansive thinking, engage many communities, and help us better understand one another and the world through a different lens. MOCA creates and supports an environment where all of these possibilities can flourish.
What do you do when you’re not at MOCA?
Learning more about all that Tucson has to offer!
Harrison Orr
Education Manager
What do you do at MOCA?
I develop and manage education programs for people of all ages and walks of life. I also teach some of our programs. I enjoy making connections in the Tucson community and hope everyone gets the opportunity to experience everything MOCA has to offer.
Why work at MOCA?
MOCA is a museum for the people. I am dedicated to MOCA’s mission not only as a place to view art, but also where meaningful learning and community-building occurs.
What do you do when you’re not at MOCA?
I am a practicing artist and currently work with linocut prints. I love to spend time with my furry studio assistants, Bonney and Wallie the Chihuahua-mixes and Minnie the Australian Labradoodle. I love to play board games with my family and see movies with my friends. Late night dance parties with the puppies are a must!
Annual Report
MOCA Tucson’s 2020 story is exceptional. Despite a global crisis it was a year of extraordinary growth—MOCA raised funds, spent less, opened exhibitions, took camps and public programs online, and grew its staff. Check out MOCA Tucson’s 2020 Annual Report.
Employment
MOCA Tucson is not currently hiring.
Volunteering + Internships
MOCA offers a variety of volunteer opportunities for individuals looking to build skills and community in the exciting context of a contemporary art museum. Greet and orient visitors MOCAshop, support our weekly/monthly museum programs and special events, and much more. If you’re interested in volunteering, contact MOCA at info@moca-tucson.org.
Internships are available in various departments at MOCA, including Public Programs, Exhibitions, Visitor Services, and Education. Applicants must be currently enrolled at a university or college and be eligible to receive credit hours as approved by their institution. Applications are accept three times a year (December, May, and July) for the Spring, Summer, and Fall semesters. To apply, please send your CV and cover letter expressing your department of interest to MOCA at info@moca-tucson.org.
Facility Rentals
Please fill out the questionnaire below if you are interested in renting space at MOCA for an event.
Contact
Questions? Comments? Contact us using the form below.