CultureShift: MOCAD to honor community icons at annual Gala and Art Auction

The Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit is hosting its 17th annual Gala and Art Auction in support of the museum this Friday, Oct. 13.

The event, which helps provide free community access to exhibits and programs at the museum, will also honor three women this year for their contributions to arts and culture in the region:

• Trailblazing nonprofit leader Melanca Clark, former CEO of Detroit’s Hudson-Webber Foundation.  
• Fashion icon and MOCAD Board Member Linda Dresner, who has dressed trendsetters from former First Lady Jackie Kennedy through today. 
• American photographer and Detroit legend Leni Sinclair, whose works capture some of the most iconic pop culture moments of the ’60s and ’70s. 

“Now is the perfect moment to recognize and uplift the voices and contributions of women in the arts,” said MOCAD Chief Operating Officer Marie Patton. “This year’s Gala will not only celebrate art and culture in Detroit but will shine a spotlight on the remarkable women who have shaped it.” 

The Gala will feature an online art auction hosted by Artsy, a world music premiere by Detroit-based musician and artist KESSWA, appearances by legendary local drag performers and much more.

Listen: MOCAD’s first artistic director joins CultureShift to discuss the future of the organization

Funds raised by past MOCAD Galas have helped the museum present over 200 art exhibitions and 1,000 public programs to metro Detroit residents for free. This year’s event, presented by the A. Alfred Taubman Foundation, will also mark MOCAD’s first with its new co-leadership team of Patton and Artistic Director Jova Lynne.

“To stand at the helm of an institution that recognizes and celebrates the essence of art and culture, especially in Detroit, is truly an honor,” Lynne said. “This year’s Gala is a testament to the unyielding spirit of our community.” 

Lynne, MOCAD’s first artistic director, joined CultureShift this week to talk about the future of the organization, especially now that it’s run by two Black women.

Listen to ‘CultureShift’ weekdays from noon to 2 p.m. ET on 101.9 FM and streaming on-demand.