Museum of Contemporary Art Hot Springs - MOCA - Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas

MOCA FAQ

What is MOCA?

MOCA is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to the acquisition and display of works of the top 500 living artists in the world. MOCA has chosen the Ozark Bathhouse as its home in hopes of preserving an historical icon of Hot Springs while embracing the exciting promise of the new, the contemporary arts.

What pieces will be displayed or collected?

MOCA will attempt to place the finest works by the world's top artists, which are most representative of their talents. MOCA will collect art in all mediums and forms. A selection committee will determine who should be included in the list of top 500 artists and what pieces are to be displayed.

Will there be a collection for Arkansas artists?

Presently, MOCA wishes to focus its efforts predominantly on the top 500 living contemporary artists in the world. However, there is a possibility that another bathhouse may be acquired specifically to collect artwork by Arkansas and/or regional artists for display and acquisition. Inasmuch as Arkansas artists may be in the top 500 contemporary artists in the world, their work will certainly be pursued and collected.

Where will MOCA obtain funding?

MOCA will seek out grants wherever possible and also look towards fundraising efforts and events. Once enough capital is generated, the Board is confident that cash flow generated from visitation and patronage will more than sustain operations. MOCA does not intend to rely solely on charitable contributions or grant monies to sustain its operations over the coming years.

What other activities will MOCA have?

MOCA intends to offer leasable space for receptions or after hours fundraisers. MOCA will also house a café/coffee shop along with a gift shop. MOCA hopes to partner with other entities such as the Clinton Cultural Center to offer art education for patrons of all ages. MOCA may consider the addition of performance art or jazz concerts. MOCA would also be receptive to providing a venue for performances during the Hot Springs Music Festival, Documentary Film Festival, or other cultural festivals that enrich the arts in Hot Springs.

Who "owns" MOCA?

You do! MOCA is operated by a board of directors as a non-profit corporation. However, it is the intent of MOCA to incorporate the talent of the entire Hot Springs artistic community in obtaining its stated goals of bringing world class art to Hot Springs.

When will MOCA open?

MOCA intends to open in fall of 2005. In the interim, MOCA will be actively identifying the world's top artists and their works and soliciting them for placement in the museum. MOCA will also be engaging in fundraising activities to finance the construction cost and other administrative costs. The National Park Service must first finish their stabilization work, which will not be finished until Fall 2004 after which MOCA will start interior renovation.

How can I donate art to MOCA?

Although MOCA's predominate goal is to obtain works by the top 500 living artists, "no Picasso will be turned away" so to speak. One may contact Richard Gipe, president of MOCA or any other board member. Currently, works are being collected in order to raise capital.

How can I help MOCA?

MOCA's most pressing needs at present are capital and artwork. If you would like to volunteer for a position on either the art selection committee or capital acquisition committee please feel free to contact us.

What is the Art Selection Committee?

This is the committee which helps acquire art and determines what pieces should be added to the permanent collection. One need not be an artist to serve on the committee, but a knowledgeable background in art is necessary. The committee then gives its recommendations to the Board of Directors who ultimately approve of what will be collected or displayed.

What is the Capital Acquisition Committee?

This is the fundraising arm of MOCA. A nationally known and published grant writer has been retained; Bev Browing, and grant applications are already submitted for consideration. MOCA will also be engaging in membership campaigns and other fundraising activities.