The Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) in Los Angeles has once again reaffirmed its role as a leader in the contemporary art world with the announcement of its 2024 acquisitions. This year, MOCA has added ninety-seven works by fifty-four artists, strengthening its already impressive collection and introducing twenty-eight new artists and collectives for the first time. The newly acquired works reflect the museum’s dedication to diversity, artistic innovation, and its deep connection to the Los Angeles arts scene.
Among the significant artists included in this year’s acquisitions are Gilbert “Magu” Luján, Silke Otto-Knapp, Guadalupe Rosales, and Henry Taylor, along with Eddie Rodolfo Aparicio, Olafur Eliasson, Josh Kline, Paul Pfeiffer, and Ana Segovia, all of whom have had recent exhibitions or commissions at MOCA. These acquisitions not only enhance the museum’s permanent collection but also solidify its commitment to supporting contemporary artists and providing a platform for diverse artistic voices.
A Year of Transformative Acquisitions
MOCA’s 2024 acquisitions represent a dynamic mix of artistic styles and mediums, ranging from painting and sculpture to photography and video installations. Some key highlights include:
- Silke Otto-Knapp’s breathtaking five-panel watercolor painting Schattentheater (Chalk Circles) (2017), a piece that showcases her signature ethereal and layered approach to abstraction.
- Henry Taylor’s powerful paintings, which were previously featured in a major retrospective at MOCA in 2022.
- Eddie Rodolfo Aparicio’s La Tecleña (Olympic Blvd. and Burlington Ave., Los Angeles, CA) (2022), a monumental sculpture made of painted fabric and rubber cast from a ficus tree.
- Guadalupe Rosales’ striking multimedia sculpture 12211996 (2023), featuring cascading mirrors, LED lights, and historical ephemera.
These acquisitions highlight MOCA’s ongoing mission to reflect the complexity of contemporary artistic practices while elevating both established and emerging voices in the art world.
Why These Acquisitions Matter
MOCA’s collection now includes nearly 8,000 works, an incredible resource for art lovers, scholars, and future generations. This year’s acquisitions align with the museum’s core mission of preserving, promoting, and redefining contemporary art. As Johanna Burton, MOCA’s Maurice Marciano Director, stated:
“MOCA’s dedication to expanding and redefining contemporary art through the collection reflects the museum’s commitment to the vibrant artistic communities of Los Angeles as well as globally, and our goals of supporting diverse artists and artistic practices.”
By investing in the artists of today, MOCA ensures a future where contemporary art continues to challenge, inspire, and reflect the world we live in.
A Community Effort: The Role of Donors and Supporters
Many of the acquisitions were made possible through generous donations from patrons, collectors, and supporters. Contributions came from a wide range of individuals and foundations, reinforcing the strong community backing that MOCA enjoys. Notable gifts include:
- William J. and Maria Bell, who gifted eight works by Urs Fischer and Andreas Gursky.
- The Maurice Marciano Family Foundation, which donated a work by Cyprien Gaillard.
- Deborah Irmas, who contributed a film installation by Jennifer West.
- Heather Podesta, who donated pieces by Vik Muniz, Thomas Demand, and Amy Cutler.
These acquisitions demonstrate the collective effort behind MOCA’s continued growth and highlight the essential role of private donors and institutional supporters in sustaining the arts.
Join MOCA in Supporting Contemporary Art
MOCA’s 2024 acquisitions underscore the museum’s role as a beacon for artistic excellence and inclusivity. Through these new additions, MOCA continues to expand access to contemporary art, support innovative artists, and engage diverse communities.
Now, more than ever, is the perfect time to support MOCA. Whether through membership, donations, or simply visiting the museum, every contribution helps ensure that contemporary art remains accessible to all.
Report Lela Christine
