Turbulence of 2020 is at the heart of new world peace art exhibit at Westport MoCA
Local artist and Representative Town Meeting member Amy Kaplan tours the gallery at the opening reception for the "World Peace" show at MoCA Westport on Wednesday, Oct. 7, 2020, in Westport, Conn.
The opening reception was held Wednesday night, with MoCA members getting an early look at striking statements and commentary by dozens of artists—both local and international—expressing ideas, angst and messages of hope through a range of mediums.
Artist Jackie Thaw points out a fact about her work at the opening reception for the "World Peace" show at MoCA Westport on Wednesday, Oct. 7, 2020, in Westport, Conn.
“We didn’t create the dialogue,” explained Ruth Mannes, executive director, noting that while some people might view the collection as leaning to the political left, it’s more accurately a reflection of topical concerns and controversies captured in photos, paintings, sculpture, video and more.
Bill Felton, board chair, checks out a piece featuring a former New York City mayor at the opening reception for the "World Peace" show at MoCA Westport on Wednesday, Oct. 7, 2020, in Westport, Conn.
“It’s the full gamut,” she said.
Ironically, Mannes and Liz Leggett, head of exhibitions, were contemplating the idea for the show well before 2020 brought a slew of social, political and cultural questions to the front burner.
Visitors get a first look at the opening reception for the "World Peace" show at MoCA Westport on Wednesday, Oct. 7, 2020, in Westport, Conn.
“It was important for me to have this,” she said, speaking to the power of group shows in particular as conveying the mood and tone of the times.
“The staff worked very hard to put this together,” said Bill Felton, board chair, adding they try to do timely exhibits.
Artist Jackie Thaw of New York City and the Class Action Collective arrives at the opening reception for the "World Peace" show at MoCA Westport on Wednesday, Oct. 7, 2020, in Westport, Conn.