First Reflection!

I am working with DJ Hellerman (lead curator) and moCa, Museum of Contemporary Art in Cleveland. I have learned that everyone here at moCa is super invested in their work and extremely dedicated to helping artists in this community, and bettering the community in general through the arts. moCa is committed to creating a space where art is enjoyed and celebrated here in Cleveland. On my first day I shadowed DJ. We did a “vinyl walkthrough” which is where DJ, the graphic designer here Shannon, and Ray the installation specialist walkthrough the print that will go on the wall, the titles, and more for the next exhibition. This was super interesting to me because I had no idea so much time and effort went into something that seems as simple as the positioning and font of text next to the art. Obviously, the text itself is crucial, but I did not even think about the time that goes into the logistics of cutting the vinyl (which they do in house) for the text, shipping it off to get turned into a sticker, and then putting it up in the right spot. There are font choices, size choices, color choices, and of course balancing what the museum wants vs. what the artist envisions for the space. After the vinyl walkthrough, DJ and I talked about what I was curious about in the museum, any questions I have, and just an overview of his days that I’ll be shadowing. Overall, my first impressions are great. DJ gave me an article to read about public works, because next summer the museum is welcoming artist Jody Pinto, an 83 year old woman that has been creating art for what seems like forever. Her footprint on the environmental art world and public installations is wildly impressive and I cannot wait to learn more. On one of my final days here, I will meet her and do a walkthrough with a team about her show next summer. I found Jody super interesting (even before meeting her) because her work has an activist perspective and it is obvious she is passionate about certain social issues. I feel that her art truly conveys emotions in a way I had never seen before. Her use of environment, space, and composition is so impressive. Here are some works by Jody that I found especially interesting:

Where I'm working!




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