MOCA Jacksonville

Happy International Museum Day. Museums create space for curiosity, conversation, and new ways of seeing the world around us. At MOCA Jacksonville, we’re proud to champion the art, artists, and ideas of our time through exhibitions and experiences that connect people with contemporary art in meaningful ways. Observed around the world each year, International Museum Day celebrates the role museums play in cultural exchange, learning, reflection, and community connection. Today, we’re celebrating the artists, communities, and cultural spaces that inspire discovery every day. Visit MOCA this week to explore exhibitions, discover new perspectives, and experience contemporary art with us.

On March 25, MOCA Jacksonville welcomed guests for The Collector’s Closet, a special fundraising event supporting the museum’s exhibitions and programs. The afternoon brought together style, creativity, and community through a lively auction experience centered on unique, thoughtfully contributed pieces. Thanks to the generosity of everyone who participated, we are proud to share that we not only reached our fundraising goal, but exceeded it. We extend our sincere thanks to our event committee, co-chaired by Lauren Baker and Melanie Busby, and committee members Sallie Ball, Ginny Becker, Inger Geraghty, Anne Joseph, Kristen Surface, and Ashley Wotiz for their thoughtful leadership in bringing this event to life. We are also grateful to our sponsors for their generous support. Special thanks to Presenting Sponsor Inger Geraghty; Muse Sponsors Lauren Baker, Ginny Becker, Melanie Busby, Shanna Khan, Brooke Stein, and Susannah Williams; Tastemaker Sponsors Cornelia Baker, Sallie Ball, Jennifer Brown, Anne Joseph, Ali Korman Shelton, Kristen Surface, and Ashley Wotiz; and In-Kind Sponsors Cara Cara New York, DannijoPro, Flamingo Magazine, Funk and Fleur Floral Designs, and U BEAUTY. Take a look back at moments from an afternoon that celebrated creativity, connection, and support for MOCA Jacksonville. Photos by Lily Larson Photography.

The Stars have landed in downtown Jacksonville ⭐ “Jacksonville Stacked Stars” by artist Frank Stella is now on view outside MOCA Jacksonville, transforming our entrance with a bold, public-facing work of contemporary art and a new landmark for the city. This monumental sculpture, Stella’s final work of public art, invites our community to pause, look up, and experience art beyond the gallery walls. Its installation marks an exciting moment not only for MOCA, but for the continued growth of public art in Jacksonville. We’re honored to see this milestone featured on the front page of The Florida Times-Union I Jacksonville.com. Read more here: https://lnkd.in/e573ygvJ Special thanks to Marianne Boesky Gallery for their support. We are also deeply grateful to our local community of amazing sponsors for making this acquisition possible.

Today is UNF Giving Day 💙 Arts UNF helps create meaningful experiential learning opportunities that connect students with art, ideas, and real-world practice. From collaborating with internationally recognized artists like Nari Ward at MOCA Jacksonville, to interdisciplinary projects that bring together art, science, and storytelling, to internships, classes, and the Student Artist-in-Residence program, your support helps make these opportunities possible. Every gift helps expand access to the arts and strengthens the student experience across the University of North Florida. Make your gift today and support Arts UNF: https://lnkd.in/e2A8mHUY

Discover iconic photographs that made history at MOCA Jacksonville 📸 The new exhibition, "Moments in Time: Defining Moments in the History of Photography," traces the evolution of photography as a contemporary art form—from the early 20th century to today’s digital age—highlighting pivotal moments that have shaped the medium. Featuring legendary photographers such as André Kertész, Edward Weston, Imogen Cunningham, Robert Mapplethorpe, Vik Muniz and Andres Serrano, it offers a compelling journey through the images and artists that defined photography across generations.

Become a MOCA Member today to secure your invite to our annual Member Mixer, an exclusive event that is only open to MOCA Members taking place on Wed, Jan 21! This event features an exclusive look at the upcoming season of exhibitions and an exclusive talk with collector Charles Gilman. This social event, with light bites, beer, and wine, is an opportunity to connect with other passionate supporters of art and culture as you meet other members, museum staff, and local artists. Plus, local photographer Kat Tarbet will curate a one-of-a-kind photo booth experience just for our members! So dress for the occasion and get a digital photo keepsake with your group, on your own, or with new friends to enjoy long after the party is over! See her work @ Visit our website or email le.milford@unf.edu to become a member and RSVP!

We might be biased, but who doesn't love exclusive museum merch? Become a MOCA Member today and receive a tote bag with artwork from Project Atrium: " Muralists in Action" by local artists Shaun Thurston and Dustin Harewood. You can join, renew, gift, or extend any level of membership to gain access to this hyperlocal merch. Please note that this exclusive deal can not be combined with any other membership discounts. Get yours now, while supplies last!

MOCA's ceramics workshops are expanding! Learn handbuilding in Seize the Clay or check out our new workshop, Mud in Motion, which takes place over two days and dives into wheel throwing for beginners. Both workshops are taught by local artist Reed Harper, who believes ceramics is about more than just objects—it’s about process, connection, and community. Visit our website for all the details and to register now🏺

Museum Nights @ MOCA continue in 2026! Thanks to the support floridablue, the Museum of Contemporary Art Jacksonville offers free admission and activities during extended hours every first and third Wednesday of the month! Tonight, during Downtown Vision Inc. Art Walk, the MOCA Bar will be open and the community can explore the museum for free from 5-9 pm. We'll be offering a variety of free activities, including art making, tabling artists, and gallery tours.

MOCA's Autism Creates workshop now takes place twice monthly! Join us at the Museum of Contemporary Art Jacksonville every second and third Saturday at 11 am for this free art education initiative designed for children, ages 6 and older, and families with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and other differences. Each workshop includes art making and sensory activities. There is no cost to attend but space is limited and registration is required. Please only register once per family. If you can not make it to the event, please cancel your registration to open the spot up to another family. Thank you. For questions or special accommodations, please contact mocaeducation@unf.edu. Visit our website to learn more and apply now! Thank you to the Edna Sproull Williams Foundation for supporting this program.