(Detroit, Michigan – September 12, 2024) – The Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit (MOCAD) is proud to announce its highly anticipated Annual Gala and Art Auction, taking place on Saturday, October 26th. The event, one of Detroit’s most prestigious and vibrant cultural fundraisers, is set to honor some of the city’s most influential arts and cultural figures, while celebrating the creative spirit that makes Detroit a global beacon for contemporary art and innovation. Proceeds from the event directly support MOCAD’s mission to connect Detroit with the international art world while fostering inclusive, forward-thinking cultural spaces within the city.

Marie Patton, MOCAD’s Co-Director and Chief Operating Officer, shares: “For 18 years, MOCAD has served as a hub for contemporary art, building and fostering meaningful relationships across the city and around the globe. As we continue to grow, we’re paving the way toward a bright and inclusive future where art and community come together.” 

This year, the museum is thrilled to pay tribute to three extraordinary honorees who have each played pivotal roles in shaping Detroit’s cultural landscape:

• Esteemed artist, cultural organizer, curator and the founder of MBAD African Bead Museum, Olayami Dabls.
• Award-winning interior designer and longtime champion of MOCAD’s mission, Founding Board Member Linda Powers.
• Executive Director of CultureSource in Detroit and former Chair of the State of Michigan Arts and Culture Council, Omari Rush.

Our honorees are partners in building vibrant, inclusive spaces where artists and audiences connect, experiment, and inspire each other. They embody the passion and resilience that define both MOCAD and Detroit, making art accessible and impactful for all.

Jova Lynne, MOCAD’s Co-Director and Artistic Director, notes, “I am thrilled for MOCAD’s Gala and the incredible opportunity it presents to celebrate the brilliant individuals who make Detroit’s contemporary art landscape shine. Olayami Dabls, Linda Powers, and Omari Rush are people who are doing the work to elevate Detroit’s artistic communities. I am thrilled to celebrate them as a true reflection of MOCAD’s mission to support creativity, innovation, and the dynamic voices that shape our community.”

AN EVENING OF SURREAL SPLENDOR

The evening will bring together an illustrious gathering of artists, patrons, and supporters of the arts. Hosted by a distinguished committee that includes Charles Boyd, MD – Chair, Lisa Applebaum, dream hampton, Roz and Scott Jacobson, Eileen and Matt Kiriluk, Brian McKinney, Marsha Miro, Lauren Rakolta, and Nate Wallace, the 2024 Gala promises to be one of the most memorable events in Detroit’s cultural calendar.

The Gala will celebrate these placemakers in a world of surreal wonder, where performers emerge from hidden architectural installations, and every moment is sure to surprise. The event will feature an art auction hosted by Artsy, a five-star dinner featuring surreal and sumptuous ingredients by local culinary experts, live musical performances by the experimental-pop duo CC Nobody and choreographer Leah O’Donnell, and a rare opportunity to meet and mingle with current and upcoming exhibiting artists.

AUCTION HIGHLIGHTS

Whether you’re a seasoned art collector or a first-time attendee, the MOCAD Art Auction offers something for everyone—a night of inspiration, discovery, and connection. This year, we’re teaming up with Artsy for our annual auction in support of our mission. For those attending in person, you’ll experience the thrill of a live auction on select artwork.

Online bidding will open Monday, October 14th and close Monday, October 28th. Gala attendees will enjoy a preview of select pieces and the opportunity to talk about the works with MOCAD curators. VISIT ARTSY TO REGISTER TODAY!

This year’s Art Auction highlights include work from LaKela Brown, Olayami Dabls, Conrad Egyir, Sol LeWitt, Danielle Dean, Chris Schanck, Jackie Ferrara, Sam Moyer and many more.

JOIN US

Tickets for the MOCAD 2024 Gala + Art Auction are priced at $1,000 each. Exclusive sponsorship packages that provide unique branding opportunities, VIP experiences, and special recognition throughout the event are also available.

For more information about the evening, including ticket purchases and sponsorship opportunities, please visit our 2024 Gala + Art Auction page or contact Development Officer Emily Durnen-Weiss at [email protected].

ABOUT MOCAD

The Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit (MOCAD) is a non-profit institution located in the heart of Detroit, dedicated to presenting art at the forefront of contemporary culture. MOCAD explores cultural and sociopolitical issues through diverse and dynamic exhibitions and programs, connecting Detroit with the global art world. The museum focuses on art as a means to nurture social change and human understanding, reflecting the community it serves. MOCAD encourages innovative experimentation by artists, musicians, makers, cultural producers, and scholars, enriching all who participate and educating visitors of all ages on the power of art. Welcoming creative voices from Detroit and around the world, MOCAD aims to guide us toward an equitable and inclusive future. The Museum believes that art can change us and is committed to holding a space where challenge, acceptance, hope, and beauty can coexist.

2024 GALA HOST COMMITTEE

Charles Boyd, MD — Chair
Lisa Applebaum
dream hampton
Roz + Scott Jacobson
Eileen + Matt Kiriluk
Brian McKinney
Marsha Miro
Lauren Rakolta
Nate Wallace

CONTACT

Carolina Adams
Sutton Communications
[email protected]