Celebrating 20 Years: A Legacy in Motion
In 2026, MOCAD celebrates its 20th anniversary, marking two decades of contemporary art, artist-centered programming, and community connection in Detroit.
The annual Gala + Art Auction brings together artists, patrons, cultural partners, and friends of the Museum for an evening of art, food, music, and celebration. Proceeds support MOCAD’s exhibitions, artist projects, public programs, and educational initiatives.
The 2026 Gala celebrates MOCAD’s 20-year history while looking ahead to the artists, ideas, and communities that will shape its future.
Held at the Museum, the evening will bring together artists, patrons, civic leaders, cultural partners, and friends of MOCAD for dinner, performances, music, and a curated art auction. Guests will enjoy a special dining experience by Chef Javier Bardauil, chef and owner of Detroit’s acclaimed BARDA, known for his distinctive live-fire cooking and nationally recognized culinary approach.
Proceeds support the exhibitions, artist projects, public programs, and educational initiatives at the heart of MOCAD’s work.
MOCAD’s Gala Host Committee is composed of the Museum’s Board of Directors, whose leadership, generosity, and advocacy support the Museum’s exhibitions, public programs, and community engagement throughout the year.
Marsha Miro
Marsha Miro is MOCAD’s Founding Director, former Board President, and current Chair Emeritus. She helped guide the Museum from an idea into an internationally recognized platform for contemporary art.
Before founding MOCAD, Marsha spent more than two decades as an art critic for the Detroit Free Press, documenting and championing Detroit artists, including those associated with the Cass Corridor movement. Her career has been defined by a lasting commitment to artists, audiences, and Detroit’s creative community.
Susanne Hilberry
Susanne Feld Hilberry was a gallerist, arts advocate, and co-founder of MOCAD. For nearly four decades, the Susanne Hilberry Gallery introduced Detroit audiences to important contemporary artists from the region and around the world.
Susanne was a trusted advisor and supporter of MOCAD throughout its development. Her commitment to artists and creative risk continues through the Museum’s curatorial position named in her honor.
Julia Reyes Taubman
Julia Reyes Taubman was a photographer, patron, and co-founder of MOCAD. Her vision helped establish the Museum as an experimental platform for contemporary art in Detroit.
Julia also served as Chair of MOCAD’s Board of Directors and held leadership roles with several cultural organizations. Her photographic book, Detroit: 138 Square Miles, documented the city’s landscape, architecture, and communities with extraordinary depth and care.
Why Sponsor MOCAD’s Gala?
Gala sponsorship offers companies, foundations, and individuals a meaningful way to take part in MOCAD’s 20th anniversary while supporting the Museum’s work throughout the year. Sponsorships begin at $3,000 and include a range of recognition opportunities and event benefits.
Explore the full sponsorship levels and benefits in the 2026 Sponsorship Deck.
For questions, contact Mark Sleeman at [email protected] or Natalie Johnson at [email protected].
Join us in celebrating 20 years of MOCAD
Be a part of MOCAD’s next chapter as we celebrate 20 years of groundbreaking art, bold ideas, and community impact. Your sponsorship directly fuels the exhibitions, performances, and programs that make Detroit a global destination for contemporary art.
Photo by Sean Cook.
Catalyst Sponsors
Howard + Nancy Marks
Visionary Sponsors
Lisa Applebaum
Jennifer Gilbert
Luminary Sponsor
Charles Boyd, MD
Art Star Sponsor
Sonia + Keith Pomeroy
Super Star Sponsors
Christine + David Colman
Marc Schwartz + Emily Camiener
