The Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA), which was founded in 1979, is the only artist-founded museum in Los Angeles dedicated to collecting and exhibiting contemporary art. The MOCA Museum houses the most compelling collections of modern art in the world, containing about 7000 objects and diverse historical exhibitions. MOCA showcases the most significant and challenging art of our time as well as produces scholarships to support those who create new artworks.
The MOCA Museum, located near Little Tokyo, California, was renovated by California’s well-known architect, Frank Gehry. Normally, the MOCA Museum is free for visitors on Thursdays. However, on January 11, the MOCA Museum was open to visitors for free; it was a special day, giving people the chance to look at new exhibitions. I got the opportunity to visit this museum with my family and explored through the numerous exhibitions displayed throughout the museum. Artworks in the MOCA Museum are displayed in a distinct way; they are all on one floor of the building and relate to one another, making the whole experience feel like you’re walking through a movie.
There are many unique artworks in the MOCA Museum. One of the exhibits, which has been open since October 27 and will continue through May 18, is part of the theme: “With Pleasure: Pattern and Decoration in American Art.” This artwork examines patterns and decorations that embraced themes like feminine, domestic, ornamental, and craft-based. It states in MOCA’s website that the artists “gleaned motifs, color schemes, and materials from the decorative arts, freely appropriating floral, arabesque, and patchwork patterns, arranging them in intricate and gaudy designs.” This exhibit traces back to the postwar American art movement, which includes artists like Valerie Jaudon, Joyce Kozloff, and Robert Kushner.
Another part of the museum is called the “Seven Stations,” which are artworks that have been in MOCA’s permanent collection since the 1950s. Representing the distinct artists, artworks, and themes, these exhibitions are popular for having unique themes. Exhibitions with neon lights and ropes hanging from the ceiling are just two descriptions from the seven pieces of art in the museum. Even though these seven stations are permanent, other exhibits change every few months. Visitors have the opportunity to look at different types of artwork every time they visit the MOCA Museum. I hope there are many people who go to the Museum of Contemporary Art and become inspired and learn more about artists and their pieces.
Rachel Lee, 10th Grade
The Science Academy
