Fall 2017 MMoCA Newsletter

fall 2017

EXHIBITIONS
CHELE ISAAC:
the understory
State Street Gallery
Sep 2–Nov 12
T
he understory is an immersive, multichannel video
installation projected within a freestanding, cylindrical
structure nearly 30 feet in diameter. The massive structure is
reminiscent of the late 19th century cyclorama, a specialized
gallery that housed monumental panoramic paintings. From
a viewing platform at the center of the drama, spectators
could get lost within the depicted scene—often a sublime
landscape or distant city—and imagine themselves beyond
their immediate surroundings. Chele Isaac’s contemporary
rendition of the cyclorama eschews this singular, unified
approach to image-making, and instead presents seven distinct
yet enigmatically synchronized videos. This non-linear
narrative captures interstitial moments, tenuous connections,
and overlooked details found within the everyday.
Isaac’s installation is as much a subjective exploration of
her own subconscious as it is a poetic vision of twenty-firstcentury
existence—a restless torrent of images, information,
and fleeting moments that challenge the limits of our perception.
Each of the seven channels is simultaneously selfcontained
and in conversation with the others. They cycle
through formal and conceptual relationships, never offering
a beginning or an end, only a disorienting and all-consuming
collage of relentless circling energy and complex visual
interactions. The score for the work—composed by Isaac’s
lifelong friend and collaborator Jack Kellogg—interweaves
sound and music to both disrupt and direct our emotional
connection to the visual language. As one image zooms in
to capture the microscopic, another expands outward, illuminating
the infinite. Tiny white particles from a table-top
snow-globe transform into intergalactic dust swirling in the
cosmos. Planets orbiting in outer space become ice cubes
floating in water, or are they icebergs melting into the sea?
Water becomes sky, sky becomes smoke, smoke becomes
breath, breath becomes ice. Tympanic drums echo slow exaggerated
heartbeats then shift almost imperceptibly to the
magnified percussion of a bee’s mating dance. Ecosystems
intersect, overlap, and trade places with each other as we
discover fluid connections among disparate pictures, which
then fall apart as quickly as they congeal.
Fractured, repeated, doubled, mirrored, slowed down,
or sped up, the videos parallel the nature and structure of
our ever-changing, image-based world of fast flowing information
and faster flowing time. Attention and perception is
both heightened and dispersed. An observation that might
ordinarily flash by, such as the flickering of a candle flame,
now becomes the subject of an extended meditation. But
before long, the next flutter of movement occupies the space.
The structure of the work and its interconnectedness to the
sound creates a succession of vignettes during which our
focus shifts, thoughts get lost, and time unhinges. Indeed,
the understory takes its place within the larger context of
multimedia, time-based installations by artists such as Doug
Aitkin and Pierre Huyghe, whose works also avoid singular
storylines in favor of a multiplicity (in screens, images, and
meanings) that demands viewers’ active participation.
Well versed in the history of video-based art, Isaac
takes her cue from experimental artists whose encompassing
audio-visual environments interrogate conditions of
perception, observation, and spectatorship. With multiple
screens, shifting perspectives, sonic dislocations, and juxtaposed
camera movements, these installations shift the role
of the audience from passive viewers to active participants
by requiring them to make decisions about where to look
and how to assimilate information. Similarly, Isaac’s work
engulfs us in multiple simultaneous moments. In reminding
us of our inability to decipher a conclusive narrative, the
understory draws attention to the physical act of observing—the
condition of spectatorship.
If the nineteenth-century cyclorama encouraged viewers
to project themselves into the depicted scene, then the
understory achieves the opposite by making us aware that
we are external from the encircling imagery. This insistent
disconnection seems to be at the heart of Isaac’s artistic
interest: she places us in the middle of her work and gives
us the agency to decide what to watch and what to ignore, but
she refuses to let us consume the work in full. The duality of
this experience unfolds as a metaphor for the challenge we
face in comprehending our role within a world that extends
beyond ourselves. It suggests that our state of separateness—from
our everyday surroundings, from nature, from
each other—prevents us from understanding our actions are
not isolated; they ripple outward. Even as we may perceive
ourselves to be at the center of the universe, we are, indeed,
part of an interconnected ecosystem that feels, absorbs, and
responds to every ripple.
Generous funding for Chele Isaac: the understory has
been provided by the David and Paula Kraemer Fund; Ellen
Rosner and Paul J. Reckwerdt; Darcy Kind and Marc Vitale;
Bell Laboratories; University Research Park; Diane Seder
and Bruce Rosen; Gabriele Haberland and Willy Haeberli;
Thysse; a grant from the Wisconsin Arts Board with funds
from the State of Wisconsin and National Endowment for
the Arts; and MMoCA Volunteers.
MMoCA OPENING
FRIDAY, SEP 22 • 6–9 PM
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BIG
Main galleries • Nov 4–May 6
BIG presents over thirty large-scale, modern and contemporary
artworks from MMoCA’s permanent collection,
including works by Sam Gilliam, Ellsworth Kelly, Robert
Rauschenberg, and Jennifer Steinkamp. Historically, largescale
art was reserved for mural paintings in the narrative
tradition, but soon artists adopted large canvases to capture
new and big ideas—particularly the Abstract Expressionists
in the 1950s. This shift to a larger scale required galleries and
museums to adjust their spaces and for viewers to alter their
way of engaging with the work. Through these large works,
artists created a physical experience that demanded the viewer’s
unwavering attention in the gallery.
In her painting, You Worry About Its Success, Hollis
Sigler sets the stage for the viewer through a clearing in the
trees. A backyard looms in the distance where a table set for
two is illuminated by string lights and the moon. The intimate
scene unfolds with no actors, yet it is infused with intense
emotion. The large scale of the work alongside her sophisticated
neo-naïve style—evident by her saturated color palette
and childlike draftsmanship—amplifies the drama. What
secrets will we overhear as we edge closer?
Also on display in BIG is Rob and Christian Clayton’s
visual and auditory sanctuary Tim House. Step inside and
have a seat on the bench while you take in the nearly 100
drawings and paintings that cover the interior walls and ceiling.
In the background, a haunting soundtrack fills the space
creating a unique experience that evokes the past as if one is
hearing all their dreams and memories as
fragments once remembered, but now
lost.
More than other formal elements
in the visual arts—such as color, line,
or shape—scale directs attention
towards the capacity of the artwork
to respond to a specific location and
call into play the role of the viewer.
Above all, the large-scale works
of art in this exhibition have
the ability to astonish.
Generous funding,
to date, for
BIG has been provided
by Nancy
Mohs; the Theda
and Tamblin Clark
Smith Family
Foundation;
Bell Laboratories;
a grant from the
Wisconsin Arts Board
with funds from the
State of Wisconsin
and the National
Endowment for the Arts;
and MMoCA Volunteers.
COVER AND OPPOSITE: Chele Isaac, the understory (video still), 2017. Seven-channel video with sound. Courtesy the artist.
THIS PAGE: Hollis Sigler, You Worry About Its Success, 1987. Oil on canvas, 65 1/2 x 89 1/2 inches. Collection of Madison Museum of
Contemporary Art. Purchase, through funds bequested by Elizabeth Harris. © Estate of Hollis Sigler. • Rob and Christian Clayton, Tim House
(in Green Pastures) from the series Green Pastures, 2001. Mixed media on wood panel with electrical and sound, 129 1/4 x 60 1/4 x 71 1/2 inches.
Collection of the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art. Gift of Howard and Judith Tullman.
3

EXHIBITIONS
RASHAAD NEWSOME: ICON
Imprint Gallery • Aug 12–Dec 3
New York–based artist Rashaad Newsome engages in a
multi-disciplinary practice that combines collage, video,
music, computer programming, and dance into exuberant
expressions of cultural agency. Rashaad Newsome: ICON
presents four of the artist’s performative videos that honor
and celebrate the origins and continued dynamism of Vogue,
a dance phenomenon that emerged from Harlem’s queer ballroom
scene.
A spectacular four minutes of sensorial fury, Stop Playing
in My Face! (2016) features a stiletto-clad Leiomy Maldonado
performing Vogue Femme atop a columned tower floating in
space. Paired with an original musical score Newsome created
in collaboration with Hitmakerchinx, the
video also includes voiceover clips from
feminist intellectual bell hooks, transgender
activist Janet Mock, and YouTube
celebrity Samantha James Revlon, among
others. With this work, the artist provides
a stage for discussion—a platform where
different voices offer distinct perspectives
on the practical and theoretical issues surrounding
sexual (self)-commodification.
Newsome ultimately questions the ways in
which race, class, gender, and sexuality are
manipulated and co-opted within popular
culture to perpetuate systems of oppression.
By reframing those same images and
cultural practices, he reclaims a space to
consider the politics of difference, the complexities
of appropriation, and the power
of agency.
Through his works on video, Newsome
pays homage to the creative and cultural productions of
LGBTQ and gender-nonconforming Black and Latino
Americans, bringing queer communities of color from the
Vogue scene into the museum. Giving prominence to individuals
who are underrepresented within the artistic canon,
his work fills a critical void and questions the dynamics of
institutional power and cultural appropriation, while simultaneously
using the gesture of collage to merge varied artistic
disciplines.
Generous support for Rashaad Newsome: ICON has been
provided by Nancy Gross and Dane Arts.
4
On December 2,
MMoCA opens
Talking Continents, an
exhibition of work by
the celebrated Spanish
artist Jaume Plensa.
Born in Barcelona in
1955, Plensa is internationally
known for
his large-scale public sculptures that draw upon literature,
psychology, language, and history to address the human
condition.
Talking Continents includes nineteen stainless steel elements
suspended in the State Street Gallery to create a floating
archipelago of cloud-like shapes. The biomorphic creations
are comprised of die-cut steel letters derived from nine different
languages. Metaphorically imagined as islands or continents,
the multi-lingual sculptures speak to the diversity of
language and culture, while simultaneously gesturing toward
JAUME PLENSA:
TALKING CONTINENTS
State Street Gallery
Dec 2, 2017–Apr 15, 2018
global interconnectedness as a path to tolerance and acceptance.
This notion of universal understanding is reinforced
by representations of human figures seated atop five of the
floating continents. The figures, similarly assembled from a
stell motif of alphabetic characters, encourages us to think
about the ways in which we are linked together as a collective
humanity. Through his installation, Plensa offers us a space to
meet, observe, and contemplate while engaging in a dialogue
that inspires inward reflection and outward generosity.
Generous funding, to date, for Talking Continents has
been provided by the David and Paula Kraemer Fund; Ellen
Rosner and Paul J. Reckwerdt; Peggy and Tom Pyle; Gina
and Michael Carter; National Guardian Life Insurance;
Charles and Lynda Clark; Dynee and Barney Sheafor; a grant
from the Wisconsin Arts Board with funds from the State of
Wisconsin and the National Endowment for the Arts; and
MMoCA Volunteers.
MMoCA OPENING
FRIDAY, DEC 1 • 6–9 PM
THIS PAGE: Rashaad Newsome, Stop Playing in My Face! (video still), 2016. Single-channel video with sound, 04:02 minutes. Courtesy of the artist
and De Buck Gallery, NY. • Jaume Plensa, Talking Continents (installation view), 2013. Stainless steel. Courtesy the artist and Galerie Lelong, New York.
OPPOSITE PAGE: Ed Ruscha, Sin, 1970. Screenprint, 19 1/8 x 26 1/2 inches. Madison Museum of Contemporary Art. Purchase, through a gift of Norman
Bassett. © Ed Ruscha 1970. • Meg Mitchell, Tenacious Numismatic Hops Exchange (TNHE): a hop garden for unyielding people, 2017. Photo: Nicholas
Sadowski. • Carl Corey, 2090–At Random, Milwaukee, from the series Tavern League, 2008. Pigment print, 35 x 35 inches. Collection of the Madison
Museum of Contemporary Art. Anonymous gift. • Warrington Colescott, The Hunt: First Dawn Stake Out, 1981. Etching and aquatint, 22 x 30 inches.
Collection of the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art. Museum Purchase Fund and by exchange.• Sonja Thomsen, in the space of elsewhere
(installation detail), 2017. Mixed-media, site-specific installation. Courtesy the artist.

ART/WORD/IMAGE
Henry Street Gallery
Opens Dec 2, 2017
In 1912, when Picasso and Braque glued newspaper clippings
onto their cubist still-lifes they unwittingly ushered in a new
era of wordplay into the history of modern art. The written word
was abstracted from the structure of language and introduced as
a graphic, artistic element. From the fragmented “word salads” of
the Dadaists to the speech balloons of mid-century Pop art, artists
have frequently used language, often ironic or enigmatic, to enhance the resonance of their work. In his screenprint Sin (1970),
Ed Ruscha transforms the word into a mountainous object that looms over a trompe l’oeil rendering of an olive. According to
Ruscha, “words are pattern-like, and in their horizontality they answer my investigation into landscape. They’re almost not
words—they are objects that become words.” Art/Word/Image examines the use of language in art through selections from
the permanent collection including works by Robert Cottingham, Bruce Nauman, Fred Stonehouse, and John Wilde.
Exhibitions in the Henry Street Gallery are generously funded through an endowment established by the
Pleasant T. Rowland Foundation.
MEG MITCHELL: TNHE
T
enacious Numismatic Hops Exchange (TNHE): a hop
garden for unyielding people is a site-specific, living
artwork that combines the visual language of industrial
construction with an ethic of social engagement. Artist Meg
Mitchell conceived of her sculptural installation, familiarly
referred to as the Hops Exchange, as a creative platform to
address the socio-economic history of the hop plant and, by
extension, the history of labor and material exchange—the
intersection of power and commerce. Hops Exchange was
funded by Kathryn Howarth Ryan.
Join us on October 6 for an MMoCA Opening to celebrate
this new addition to the museum’s rooftop, and to kick off
our now-annual hops harvest. See page 9 for more details.
MMoCA OPENING
FRIDAY, OCT 6 • 6–9 PM
RECONFIGURED REALITY:
CONTEMPORARY PHOTOGRAPHY FROM
THE PERMANENT COLLECTION
on view through Nov 12 in the Henry Street Gallery.
TAKING SIDES:
SOCIAL CRITIQUE IN MODERN AND CONTEMPORARY ART
on view through Oct 15 in the main galleries.
SONJA THOMSEN:
in the space of elsewhere
See page 6 for a list of events related to
this installation.
5

TALKS & PERFORMANCES
A LUSSIER FAMILY LECTURE
FRIDAY, SEP 22, 6:30–7:15 PM
ARTIST TALK: CHELE ISAAC
Chele Isaac: the understory re-imagines the enveloping experience
of a 19th century cyclorama in contemporary terms by
employing a seven-channel video projection. Isaac will discuss
the visual and conceptual underpinnings of this new work on
view in the State Street Gallery.
This talk is part of an MMoCA Opening, which is free for members
and $10 for non-members. Lecture hall seating is limited.
THURSDAY, SEP 28, 1–1:30 PM
POETRY AND POLITICS:
MAKING SILENCE SPEAK
What does it mean for poetry to be political? One answer is
that it breaks historical silences, giving voice to stories and
experiences that have yet to be heard. But what if poetry
has already deemed your voice to be a silent one? Offered
in conjunction with the exhibition Taking Sides, Professor
Timothy Yu will discuss American poetry’s stereotypes of
the “silence” associated with Asian cultures and the potential
of techniques like parody and rewriting to respond to them.
Timothy Yu is Professor of English and Asian American
Studies and Director of the Asian American Studies Program
at UW-Madison.
FRIDAYS, SEP 29 & OCT 13, 6:30–7 PM
PERFORMANCE: TANGIBLE SPACE
Choreographer Maria Gillespie will present the movement
installation Tangible Space in response to Sonja Thomsen:
in the space of elsewhere. Thomsen’s work will be activated by
dance performances by Gillespie and Joelle Worm within the
installation’s multiple levels, calling attention to the materiality
of touch, the rootedness of presence, and the movement of
light. Chicago artist Mike Rea created the platform sculptures
on which the dancers will perform.
Generous funding for MMoCA Gallery
Talks is provided by Bell Laboratories.
FRIDAY, OCT 13, 7–7:30 PM
ARTIST TALK: SONJA THOMSEN
In her installation, in the space of elsewhere, Sonja Thomsen
uses the architectural details and light-filled spaces of
MMoCA’s lobby to engage viewers in noticing the interaction
of light, space, time, and movement. Thomsen has explained
that her artistic interests are in “creating spaces that highlight
the inaccessible.” In this gallery talk, she will discuss
her methods and intentions for this site-responsive work.
FRIDAY, NOV 3, 6:30–7 PM
GALLERY TALK: FINDING MEANING
IN COLOR
Assistant Professor Karen Schloss will discuss human perceptions
and experiences of color in response to the installation
Sonja Thomsen: in the space of elsewhere. Typically, colors
are understood in terms of their perceptual qualities, however,
evidence suggests that people have myriad associations with
colors that influence the way they interpret the world.
Karen Schloss is an Assistant Professor at UW-Madison in
the Department of Psychology and Wisconsin Institute for
Discovery. She leads the Visual Perception and Cognition Lab,
which studies color cognition, information visualization, and
navigation in immersive virtual environments. The talk is
presented in conjunction with the Wisconsin Science Festival.
FRIDAY, DEC 1, 6:30–7:30 PM
ARTIST TALK: JAUME PLENSA
Internationally renowned artist Jaume Plensa will discuss
his immersive installation, Talking Continents, on view in
MMoCA’s State Street Gallery. Plensa’s rich body of work
explores universal aspects of human experience using a broad
range of materials and approaches. For Talking Continents,
he created stainless steel sculptures formed of die-cut letters
from nine international alphabets. Among his celebrated
outdoor public projects is the monumental Crown Fountain
(2004) in Chicago’s Millennium Park.
This talk is part of an MMoCA Opening, which is free for members
and $10 for non-members. Lecture hall seating is limited.
6

CINEMA & TOURS
SPOTLIGHT CINEMA
Wednesdays, Oct 4–Nov 15 and Nov 29 • 7–9 pm
MMoCA’s Spotlight Cinema features premieres of critically
acclaimed and award-winning documentary
and feature films. This year’s edition includes the gripping
Belgian mystery The Unknown Girl. Rising French star
Adèle Haenel plays a doctor who becomes fixated on solving
a crime that occurs outside the door of her practice. In the
follow-up to their Oscar-nominated Two Days, One Night,
the Dardenne brothers introduce a new element of film noir
intrigue to their unerring eye for social realism. Curated by
Mike King, Spotlight Cinema is held on Wednesday evenings
throughout the fall; visit mmoca.org for the full schedule and
program details.
Admission is free for MMoCA members and $7 per
screening for the general public. Ticket sales begin at 6:30
pm in the museum’s lobby. Spotlight Cinema is a program
of MMoCA’s education department. The series is generously
funded by maiahaus, Venture Investors, LLC, and an anonymous
donor.
DROP-IN TOURS
Saturdays, Oct 7, Nov 11, and Dec 9 • 1–1:30 pm
Drop by MMoCA for lively and
informal discussions of current
exhibitions. Expertly led by MMoCA’s
docents, these free, 30-minute guided
tours consider artists’ creative decisions
and provide insight into their
methods, ideas, and influences. Meet
in the museum lobby.
OCT 7: TAKING SIDES
NOV 11: BIG
DEC 9: JAUME PLENSA:
TALKING
CONTINENTS
OPPOSITE PAGE: Sonja Thomsen, in the space of elsewhere (installation detail), 2017. Mixed-media, site-specific installation. Courtesy the artist.
THIS PAGE: Still image from The Unknown Girl (Belgium/France, 2016). Jean-Pierre and Luc Dardenne, directors. 113 min. • Jaume Plensa, Talking
Continents (installation view), 2013. Stainless steel. Courtesy the artist and Galerie Lelong, New York.
7

FAMILY RESOURCES
KIDS’ ART ADVENTURES
Kids’ Art Adventures invite families to make art together in
MMoCA’s classroom following guided discussion of art on
view in the museum’s exhibitions. Six- to ten-year-olds and
their families should meet promptly at 1 pm in MMoCA’s
lobby; children must be accompanied by an adult. Space at
Kids’ Art Adventures is limited. Kids’ Art Adventures are
generously funded by National Guardian Life Insurance.
SUNDAY, SEP 24, 1–2:30 PM
Step inside Chele Isaac’s immersive, floor-to-ceiling installation
inspired by the cyclorama. Learn about the history of
these early panoramic environments and enjoy the artist’s
enchanting video projections, viewable in 360 degrees. In
the workshop, create a miniature version of a cyclorama that
spins to bring your drawings to life.
SUNDAY, DEC 10, 1–2:30 PM
Look at, peer through, and walk around Jaume Plensa’s large,
suspended sculptures composed of human forms and letters
from nine languages. The artist created Talking Continents
to share his vision of people coming together. For this workshop,
we’ll create our own hanging sculptures that show our
support for a peaceful and united world.
SUNDAY, OCT 8, 1–2:30 PM
If you could change anything about the world, what would it
be? What wishes do you have for the future? See how different
artists share their concerns for the world in Taking Sides.
Try your hand at relief printmaking and create a work of art
that expresses your dreams and ideas.
Sunday, Nov 5, 1–2:30 PM
Embrace your curiosity and wonder with artist Sonja
Thomsen, who will lead this art adventure. Explore her
immersive installation and make an iridescent sculpture that
reflects and refracts light. Bring a camera to photograph your
artwork in the lobby.
Offered in conjunction with the Wisconsin Science
Festival; pre-registration is required. Please contact
education@mmoca.org to reserve a space in the workshop.
MMoCAkids ARTPACK
Stop by the museum’s lobby welcome desk and ask for the
MMoCAkids ArtPack, the museum’s hands-on discovery
kit for exploring art. Inside, find art activities designed
for Taking Sides, Jaume Plensa: Talking Continents, and
Reconfigured Reality: Contemporary Photography from
the Permanent Collection.
MMoCAteens AND
MMoCAkids ART GUIDES
Designed for use anywhere in the museum,
the MMoCAteens and MMoCAkids art guides
provide young visitors with multiple ways to
investigate current exhibitions.
LEARNING
CENTERS
MMoCA’s Learning Centers offer families
a variety of fun and engaging resources for
exploring MMoCA’s exhibitions. A range
of kid-friendly activities promote imaginative
play inspired by works of art. Learning
Centers are available for exhibitions in the
Henry Street Gallery and main galleries.
MMoCA’s free family
resources are generously
funded by the Nimick
Forbesway Foundation.
THIS PAGE, TOP: Nancy Mladenoff, Ideology Primer II, 1989. Painting on printed fabric, 34 x 40 inches. Collection of the Madison Museum
of Contemporary Art. Gift of David Bordwell and Kristin Thompson. THIS PAGE, BOTTOM: Kids’ Art Adventures photo by Chelsea Weis.
OPPOSITE: Arts Ball photo by Larry Chua.
8

EVENTS
MMoCA OPENINGS
Save the dates for three upcoming MMoCA Openings.
Exhibition opening celebrations feature music, seasonal
hors d’oeuvres from Fresco, a cash bar, and engaging visual
art programming. The evenings are always free for MMoCA
members / $10 for non-members. Seating is limited.
MMoCA Openings are sponsored by Newcomb Construction
Company and The Alexander Company with additional support
from Fresco and media support from Isthmus.
FRIDAY, SEP 22 • 6–9 PM
Join us for the MMoCA Opening of Chele Isaac: the understory.
Isaac is a Madison-based artist who combines moving
images and sound to create fully immersive, multimedia
environments. At 6:30 pm, the artist will discuss her work
in the lecture hall (seating capacity is limited). The evening
will also offer music, passed hors d’oeuvres, and a cash bar
in MMoCA’s lobby.
FRIDAY, OCT 6 • 6–9 PM
The first Friday in October will be jam-packed with artrelated
events and experiences. In addition to Gallery
Night (5–9 pm) and the after party (9-11 pm), MMoCA will
celebrate artist Meg Mitchell’s rooftop installation Tenacious
Numismatic Hops Exchange (TNHE): a hop garden for
unyielding people from 6-9 pm. TNHE is a massive sitespecific
artwork that functions both as a trellis to support the
growth and harvesting of hops, and as a platform for social
engagement, educational programming, and artistic activity.
The opening celebration will offer an artist-led participatory
activity at 6:30, music, passed hors d’oeuvres, and a cash bar.
See the Gallery Night description for more details.
FRIDAY, DEC 1 • 6–9 PM
The New York Times calls Jaume Plensa “one of the world’s
most celebrated public artists.” On Friday December 1,
MMoCA will open Talking Continents, an exhibition featuring
Plensa’s work. Beginning at 6 pm, guests may view
Talking Continents. At 6:30 pm Plensa will give a talk in the
lecture hall (seating capacity is limited). Patchouli & Terra
Guitarra will perform live, offering listeners an international
blend of acoustic guitar and vocal harmonies. Hors d’oeuvres
from Fresco will be passed and cocktails will be available at
a cash bar.
PLEASE TAKE THE SURVEY
“ Knowing our audience and serving
our community is vital to our work.”
Stephen Fleischman, MMoCA Director
Please take a minute to fill out and mail back the
postcard inserted in this newsletter. We will use
this information and other feedback we are gathering
to refine our communications, and to better
share the information that interests you most.
If you prefer to take the survey online, visit
mmoca.org/survey.
GALLERY NIGHT
Friday, Oct 6 • 5–9 pm
After Party 9–11 pm
Gallery Night is a long-time Madison arts tradition—
organized by the Madison Museum of Contemporary
Art—offering patrons an opportunity to enjoy a wide variety
of visual art offerings throughout the city. Galleries, artist
studios, non-profit organizations, and other local businesses
that showcase original artwork open their doors and host
special exhibitions, demonstrations, and receptions during
this semi-annual event.
Mark your calendar for October 6, as Madison celebrates
29 years of Gallery Night! Patrons are encouraged to tour
Madison’s vibrant arts scene from 5-9 pm and then join
the After Party in MMoCA’s lobby from 9-11 pm, for live
music from DJ Boyfrrriend, refreshments, and hands-on
art activities.
Beginning at 6:30, Meg Mitchell will choreograph an interactive
experience to initiate a new annual hops harvest event.
With artist-made hops tokens and tally sticks, in addition
to bushels of hand-picked hop cones, participants will
explore 18th century tools and processes used for on-the-job
accounting and payment of hop-pickers. Linking the Hops
Exchange and its harvest to the history of hops-related labor
and material exchange, Mitchell addresses food as commodity
and explores the intersections of power and commerce.
Share your Gallery Night photos and reviews on social media
using #MADGalleryNight.
Gallery Night is sponsored by The Roman Candle Pizzeria.
Media support is provided by Isthmus.
ARTS BALL
Saturday, Nov 11 • 7 pm
Mark your calendar for the 47th anniversary of the Arts
Ball. “Last Dance” will be held on Saturday, November
11, 2017 at Nakoma Golf Club.
Gather for cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, a silent auction, dining,
delectable music, and dancing. All proceeds directly support
the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art and the Madison
Symphony Orchestra.
A celebration of the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art
and the Madison Symphony Orchestra, Arts Ball is a festive
occasion to contribute to the continued health and vitality of
two of Madison’s most beloved cultural institutions.
9

EVENTS & GIVING
MMoCA ART & GIFT FAIR
A FEATURE OF A NEW DOWNTOWN MADISON FESTIVAL
Announcing the MMoCA Art & Gift Fair, formerly known
as the Holiday Art Fair. This refreshed and revitalized
event will kick-off the new Shine On Madison festival. Inside
the museum November 18 and 19, visitors will enjoy a funfilled
weekend of shopping over 70 artist booths, live music
and dance performances, gourmet food vendor booths, and
attractions for the whole family. Outside of the museum on
Saturday, November 18, the downtown festival will offer dining
options and carolers, an outdoor market, a hot chocolate
stand, a window display contest, a special lighting ceremony at
6:08 pm, and many more wonderful winter-time experiences.
The MMoCA Art & Gift Fair is the weekend before
Thanksgiving, well-timed for thoughtful holiday shopping.
Photo by John Murray
The Silent Auction will offer a delightful downtown package
and a variety of works from the fair’s exhibitors. Those looking
for objects with a bit of history will enjoy the Rediscovered
Treasures & Art Sale.
Watch for an invitation to the MMoCA Art & Gift Fair with
details about the November 18 lighting ceremony and a special
evening reception.
FAIR HOURS
ANN HARRIS YASUHARA BEQUEST
Supporting MMoCA into the Future
Ann Harris Yashuhara at
Storm King Art Center, 1999
Saturday, November 18 • 10 AM–8 PM
Sunday, November 19 • 10 AM–4 PM
MMoCA recently received a major gift from the estate of Ann Harris Yasuhara that will help
sustain the museum’s programs into the future.
Ann was born and raised in Madison; both her parents (Julian Earle Harris, a noted French
language professor at UW-Madison, and Elizabeth Marshall Harris, a sculptor who studied at
the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts) and her grandparents were deeply involved with the
museum. Ann studied cooking and fashion design in Paris, and earned her bachelors, masters,
and doctoral degrees in mathematics from the University of Illinois. In 1970, she and her husband,
Mitsuru, settled in Princeton, New Jersey. Ann taught mathematics and computer science
at Rutgers University, and throughout her life pursued her interests in mathematics, music,
gardening, travel, and art. Ann was also a leader in the Quaker faith in her community, and was
an activist for peace and justice, as well as numerous social, environmental, and political causes.
Ann regularly visited her family in Madison throughout her life. Jan Marshall Fox, Ann’s cousin
and longtime MMoCA friend and former Trustee, remembers her as “elegantly cultured, devoted
to us, her family, as well as to her personal and philanthropic pursuits.” Ann’s gift to MMoCA
was made in honor of her parents and their commitment to the museum and its mission to make visual art accessible to all in
our community.
10
Planned gifts such as Ann’s support this critical aspect of MMoCA’s mission. Those who have established planned gifts for
MMoCA are welcomed as members of the MMoCA Circle and as special guests at museum events. For more information
about making a legacy gift and becoming a member of the MMoCA Circle, contact Kaitlin Kropp at kaitlin@mmoca.org or
608.257.0158 x224.

MEMBERSHIP & GIVING
MMoCA’S BUSINESS COUNCIL
MMoCA’s corporate members – known as the MMoCA Business Council – support a vibrant community by contributing
to museum exhibitions, education programs, and ongoing operations. With these important contributions, MMoCA
can offer compelling, thought-provoking programming, and Business Council members become known as generous and
engaged community leaders. For information on corporate membership and its many benefits, contact Kaitlin Kropp at
kaitlin@mmoca.org or 608.257.0158 x224. MMoCA thanks the following businesses and organizations for their support:
BENEFACTORS ($10,000+)
Ajenda Interactive Media
The Alexander Company
Bell Laboratories
BioSentinel INC
BMO Private Bank
Eugenie Mayer Bolz
Family Foundation
J.H. Findorff & Son, Inc.
Flad Architects
Future Foam
Hiebing
Madison Community Foundation
Madison Magazine
Madison Print Club
MMoCA Volunteers
National Guardian Life Insurance
Newcomb Construction Company
Nimick Forbesway Foundation
Pleasant T. Rowland Foundation
Steinhauer Charitable Trust
W. Jerome Frautschi Foundation
Wisconsin Arts Board
Zendesk Inc.
SPONSORS ($5,000-9,999)
American Family Insurance
American Transmission Company
Brava Magazine
The Century House
CUNA Mutual Foundation
Custer Financial Services
CYC Fitness
Dane Arts
Evjue Foundation Inc.,
the charitable arm of
The Capital Times
Great Dane Pub & Brewing Co.
Habush Habush and Rottier S.C.
Ho-Chunk Gaming Madison
ImagesPlus
Isthmus
maiahaus
MG&E Foundation
Midwest Family Broadcasting
MillerCoors
MINI of Madison
Pepsi Cola of Madison
Perkins Coie LLP
Promega Corporation
Reinhart, Boerner,
Van Deuren, S.C.
Supranet Communications, Inc.
Venture Investors, LLC
Webcrafters-Frautschi
Foundation, Inc.
Wildwood Productions
Wisconsin Public Radio
WISC-TV Channel 3
WKOW-TV Channel 27
LEADERS ($2,500-4,999)
Access Information Management
Adams Outdoor Advertising
Artful Home
Associated Bank
Capital Newspapers
Celebrations Entertainment
Cummings Christensen
Family Foundation
Design Concepts
Dines, Inc.
DoubleTree by Hilton Madison
Food Fight Restaurant Group
Ganser Company
Hooper Corporation/General Heating
& Air Conditioning
Johnson Bank
Physicans Plus Insurance Corporation
RSM
Staff Electric Company, Inc.
Summit Credit Union
TDS Telecom
The Terry Family Foundation
Think Ink & Design
Waunakee Remodeling
Wisconsin Lottery
Yelp Madison
PARTNERS ($1,000-2,499)
5NINES
AC Hotel
J.F. Ahern Co.
Axley Brynelson, LLP
Best Western Premiere – Park Hotel
Bicycle Federation of Wisconsin
The Capital Times Kids Fund
Colony Brands, Inc.
Dane County Regional Airport
DeWitt Ross & Stevens S.C.
Econoprint
The Edgewater
ERDMAN
Faith Technologies
First Business Bank of Madison
Foley & Lardner
Full Compass Systems, Ltd.
Godfrey & Kahn, S.C.
Greater Madison Convention &
Visitors Bureau
Hampton Inn & Suites - Madison
Downtown
Hovde Properties, LLC
Knothe & Bruce Architects, LLC
Knox Family Foundation
M3 Insurance Solutions
Madison Arts Commission
Michael Best & Friedrich
Milwaukee Valve Company
Oakbrook Corporation
Phillips Distribution Corp.
Potter Lawson
RBC Wealth Management
Roman Candle Pizzeria
Shulfer Architects
Smith & Gesteland LLP
Sprinkman Real Estate
Total Administrative Services
Corporation
US Bank
WIPFLi CPAs and Consultants
Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra
DONORS ($500-999)
Access Wisconsin
Artist & Craftsman Supply
GMA Engineers
John Thompson Investment
Management
Nordic Consulting Partners, Inc.
Pro Physical Therapy
RS+K
Shine United LLC
Sonic Foundry
Stoddard’s Meat Market
& Catering
Thysse
SUPPORTERS ($250-499)
adorable.io
Amanti Art
Ameriprise Financial Services
Atmosphere Commercial Interiors
Benjamin CPA
Credo Product Design
DRS Paving
Eminent Domain Services LLC
Greater Madison Chamber of
Commerce
JPC Law
KJWW P.C.
L’Etoile
Madison MAGNET
Mirror 34 Productions
OPN Architects
Piano Fondue
Plantes Company
Russell Arts Law
SunMoon Arts
TheoryThree Interactive
Ueda Photography
Underground Food Collective
Vierbicher
Woodman’s Markets
STAY IN
TOUCH
sign up for weekly emails at
mmoca.org/mmoca-notes
11

MEMBERSHIP & GIVING
MMoCA BOARD
OF TRUSTEES
OFFICERS
Rick Phelps, President
Joe Alexander, Vice-President
Jason Knutson, Vice-President
Leslie Smith III, Vice-President
Charlotte Cummins, Secretary
John Sylla, Treasurer
OTHER TRUSTEES
Marian Bolz, Life Trustee
Bryan Chan
Karen Christianson
Vikki Enright
Jim Escalante
Dave Franchino
Sara Guyer
Cedric Johnson
Valerie Kazamias,
Chair, The Langer Society
Elizabeth Kirchstein
Oscar Mireles
Bret Newcomb
Dave Orr
Amy Paulios
Margaret Pyle
JoAnne Robbins
John Ronzia
Dynee Sheafor
John Sims
Sylvia Vaccaro
Marc Vitale
GIFT IN MEMORY OF
OLIVIA ISHIKAWA
Cari Ditullio
GIFT IN MEMORY OF
JACKIE MACAULAY
Stewart Macaulay
NEW LANGER SOCIETY MEMBERS:
MARCH 1–JUNE 30
Laurel Brown, Dave and Vicky Franchino, Ronald and Bett Jacquart, Liz Marczak and
Dana Wall, Nicole Scott and Aditya Gore, Peter Tropmann and Virginia Graves
NEW REGULAR MEMBERS: MARCH 1–JUNE 30
Debra Anken-Dyer and Charles Dyer, Noel Ash, Susanne and Peter Benton, John and
Jean Bridwell, Adria Brooks, Dana Burmaster, Joe Cavanaugh and Lisa Marvel Johnson,
Anna Claussen and Sean de Vitry, Frances and Marcel Colbert, Shannon Connell, Rikki and
Dan Conwell, Elizabeth Crawford, Lori Decker, Lynne and Samuel Dennis, Laura Dettinger,
Wilberta Donovan, Stephanie and Bill Drum, Elizabeth Feder, Claudia Finn, Jason Fish,
Ryan Fitz and Tracy Hammerstrom, Erin Foley, Taylor Fritsch, Cate Furay and Jim Sweet,
Amy Gannon, Barbara Gilson, Matt Glowacki, Ellie Gorny, Antigone Grace, Mary Hamele,
Charles Heidenreich and Maya Thurston. Sam Holben, Elizabeth Jackson, Janet and
Daniel Johnson, Erika Kachama-Nkoy, Winnie Karanja, C. Drew Kemp-Baird, Carolyn
and Donal Knorr, William Kohl, Polly Koppen, Nick Kraninger, Todd and Susan Kummer,
Catherine Lange, Julia Leichtenberg,Kristen Loutenstock, Michelle Marx, Mary McCoy,
Katie Pruitt, Tasha Quilliam and Andrew Schroeder, Virginia Rose and Mark Nelson,
Elizabeth Saan, Joan Sample, Melissa Smith, David Sparer and Doreen Kunert, Laura
Thomas, Constance Timper, Heather Van Natta and Chris Quinn, Kate Walker, Mary Wallace,
Lisa Warrick, Chelsea Weis, DeShawn Witter, Sara Worzella, Chris Zak
SPECIAL PROJECT
UNDERWRITERS
Brand strategy and design support,
including the development
of MMoCA’s new brandmark, is
contributed by Hiebing.
A major gift from the Nimick
Forbesway Foundation supports
the museum’s education programs.
Internet service is provided
by Supranet Communications.
Design and technical guidance for
MMoCA’s website is donated by
Ajenda Interactive Media.
PRIVATE EVENTS
With gorgeous spaces such as the lobby and rooftop sculpture garden, as well
as an elegant and high-tech lecture hall, MMoCA is the perfect place to host
your next event. Langer Society members, Business Council members, and nonprofit
groups receive discounted rates. For information, please contact Bob Sylvester at
bob@mmoca.org or 608.257.0158 x251.
MMoCA’S NEW LOOK
Photo by Shanna Wolf
This fall, we retire our previous logo and roll out a new look. This updated brandmark,
generously contributed by Hiebing, integrates beautifully with our ongoing
efforts to keep your experience with MMoCA fresh, elegant, and inviting.
The new logo uses a stylized “A” that reflects the iconic building’s windows and ties it
more closely to the most striking architectural feature. This element, along with new
typefaces, will be prominent in our design look. Watch for the continuing implementation
of our brand over the next few months.
12
OPPOSITE: Meg Mitchell, Tenacious Numismatic Hops Exchange (TNHE): a hop garden for unyielding people, 2017. Photo: Nicholas Sadowski.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS
SEPTEMBER
OCTOBER
NOVEMBER
DECEMBER
M T W T F S S
1 2 3
4 5 6 7 8 9 10
11 12 13 14 15 16 17
18 19 20 21 22 23 24
25 26 27 28 29 30
M T W T F S S
1
2 3 4 5 6 7 8
9 10 11 12 13 14 15
16 17 18 19 20 21 22
23 24 25 26 27 28 29
30 31
M T W T F S S
1 2 3 4 5
6 7 8 9 10 11 12
13 14 15 16 17 18 19
20 21 22 23 24 25 26
27 28 29 30
M T W T F S S
1 2 3
4 5 6 7 8 9 10
11 12 13 14 15 16 17
18 19 20 21 22 23 24
25 26 27 28 29 30 31
SEPTEMBER
22 6–9 pm
6:30–7:15
MMoCA Opening:
Chele Isaac: the understory
Artist Talk: Chele Isaac
24 1–2:30 pm Kids’ Art Adventures:
Chele Isaac: the understory
28 1–1:30 pm Gallery Talk: Poetry and Politics
29 6:30–7 pm Performance: Tangible Space
OCTOBER
4 7–9 pm Spotlight Cinema
6 5–9 pm
9–11 pm
Gallery Night/MMoCA
Opening: Hops Harvest
Gallery Night After Party
7 1–1:30 pm Drop-in Tour: Taking Sides
8 1–2:30 pm Kids’ Art Adventures: Taking
Sides
11 7–9 pm Spotlight Cinema
13 6:30–7 pm
7–7:30 pm
Performance: Tangible Space
Artist Talk: Sonja Thomsen
18 7–9 pm Spotlight Cinema
25 7–9 pm Spotlight Cinema
28 Galleries and Store close early
NOVEMBER
1 7–9 pm Spotlight Cinema
3 6:30–7 pm Gallery Talk:
Finding Meaning in Color
5 1–2:30 pm Kids’ Art Adventures:
Sonja Thomsen:
in the space of elsewhere
8 7–9 pm Spotlight Cinema
11 1–1:30
7 pm
Drop-in Tour: BIG
Arts Ball
15 7–9 pm Spotlight Cinema
18 10 am–8 pm MMoCA Art & Gift Fair
19 10 am–4 pm MMoCA Art & Gift Fair
23 Galleries and Store closed
24 8 am–Noon Museum Store Black Friday sale
29 7–9 pm Spotlight Cinema
DECEMBER
1 6–9 pm
6:30–7:30 pm
MMoCA Opening: Jaume
Plensa: Talking Continents
Artist Talk: Jaume Plensa
9 1–1:30 pm Drop-in Tour: Jaume Plensa:
Talking Continents
10 1–2:30 pm Kids’s Art Adventures:
Jaume Plensa:
Talking Continents
24 Galleries closed
25 Galleries and Store closed
31 Galleries and Store closed
(also Jan 1)
13

ABOUT
Fresco is located on MMoCA’s spectacular
rooftop. Come visit and meet the
new executive chef, Giovanni Novella.
Not everyone knows how to fillet
and prepare a branzino, but Chef
Giovanni Novella was born doing it. The
fish, otherwise known as European sea
bass, is daily fare in Giovanni’s hometown
of Torre del Grecco, a fishing port
in southern Italy.
MEMBERS
MAKE IT
POSSIBLE.
Support from members of
the Madison Museum of
Contemporary Art ensures
that outstanding exhibitions
and educational programs
remain free for all.
THANK YOU!
ABOUT THE MUSEUM The Madison Museum of Contemporary Art is
an independent, nonprofit organization presenting exhibitions by local, regional,
national, and international artists. A permanent collection of more than 5,000
works of art is maintained and enlarged through gifts and purchases. The museum’s
education department presents programs to increase public understanding
and appreciation of modern and contemporary art.
MMoCA MEMBERS
Receive a 10% discount at
Fresco and all Food Fight ​
restaurants.
Join today at
mmoca.org
Photo by Chris Hynes
After graduating five years of culinary
school, Giovanni traveled and
cooked his way across Europe and eventually
joined a luxury cruise ship that
traveled around South America. After
his culinary journey, he spent three
years working in Italy in fine dining
before moving to San Diego, California.
Cooking in San Diego gave Giovanni
an opportunity to balance his experiences
from Italy and his travels with
American-style cuisine, and to blend the
flavors from different continents.
“My favorite thing about restaurants
is using ingredients—both local and
from around the world—to create new
dishes and flavors that let each product
shine,” says Giovanni.
“I’m excited to be in Madison, and
to experience this city and culture. My
wife grew up in Madison and has always
told me what a great place this is to live,
and what a great ‘food’ city it is. I am
excited to raise our growing family here,
and enjoy all that the city has to offer.”
HOURS
Galleries Store Fresco
Monday Closed 12–5 pm Closed
Tue–Thur 12–5 pm 11 AM–5 pm 5–9 pm
Friday 12–8 pm 11 AM–8 pm 5–10 pm
Saturday 10 AM–8 pm 10 AM–8 pm 5–10 pm
Sunday 12–5 pm 12–5 pm 5–9 pm
ACCESSIBILITY Exhibitions, lectures, tours, and special events at
MMoCA are accessible to people with disabilities. Please contact the museum
at 608.257.0158 regarding accommodations for persons with limited mobility,
sight, or hearing. Relay Service is available by dialing AT&T @ 711.
MEMBERSHIP MMoCA members enjoy many privileges, including free
admission to MMoCA Openings and films; discounts at the Museum Store, at
Fresco and other Food Fight restaurants; invitations to special member events
and previews; opportunities to meet artists; a subscription to MMoCA’s newsletter;
and tax deductions for contributions.
VOLUNTEERING Enthusiastic volunteers are vital to MMoCA’s success.
Visit mmoca.ivolunteer.com for current volunteer opportunities.
CHANGE OF ADDRESS Please notify the office of address
changes so that your mailings are not interrupted. Contact Kaitlin Kropp at
kaitlin@mmoca.org or 608.257.0158 x224.
JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST MMoCA Notes, the museum’s weekly email
newsletter, will keep you informed about upcoming events and exhibitions. Sign
up online at mmoca.org.
CONTACT THE MUSEUM
608.257.0158 • info@mmoca.org • www.mmoca.org
© Madison Museum of Contemporary Art. Artworks © the artist unless otherwise noted. Artworks
may not be reproduced without permission of the copyright holder.
14

EVENT PHOTOS
HAIR AFFAIR, APRIL 27
Temptd Salon & Spa. Photo by Romulo Ueda.
Midwest Beauty House. Photo by Paulius Musteikis.
Cha Cha Beauty & Barber.
Photo by Paulius Musteikis.
ART FAIR ON THE SQUARE, JULY 8 & 9
Photo by Maria Gomer
Photo by @xmartzthespot
Photo by Sarah Alt
15

227 State Street • Madison, WI 53703
Nonprofit Org.
U.S. Postage
PAID
Madison, Wisconsin
Permit No. 1143
PLAN YOUR VISIT TO THE MUSEUM STORE
The Museum Store is the perfect place to shop for everyday or holiday gifts, honoring someone special in
your life. Every purchase supports MMoCA’s free exhibitions and education programs. Local and regional
artists are always featured in our award-winning store.
SEPTEMBER 15% off all regular priced books.
OCTOBER Maya Madden and Wayne Farra of No Rules Jewelry will be featured artists
during a Gallery Night trunk show, October 6, 5–9 pm.
Dale Chihuly’s 2017 New Studio Edition glass is for sale in the Museum Store. Langer
Members (only) receive a 10% discount on these Editions.
NOVEMBER Get ready for the Black Friday special sale on November 24, 8 am–12 pm:
25% discount on 1 non-consignment item. Members may add their 10–20% discounts
onto this once-a-year special. (Come early!)
DECEMBER Find the perfect gift, or purchase a Museum Store gift certificate or
MMoCA membership for anyone on your list. The Museum Store offers a selection
of books, greeting cards, toys, hand-crafted jewelry, pottery, boxes, hand-blown
glass, menorahs, Christmas ornaments, silk scarves, wood vases, leather purses,
hats, and gloves.
Dec 26–Jan 30: All holiday items on sale (except menorahs).
MUSEUM STORE HOURS
Until Nov 30
Sun–Mon: 12–5 pm
Tue–Thur: 11 am–5 pm
Fri:
Sat:
Nov 23:
11 am–8 pm
10 am–8 pm
Closed
Open late during most
Overture performances
in December.
Extended hours Dec 1–23
Sun:
12–5 pm
Mon:
12–5 pm
Tue–Thur: 10 am–6 pm
Fri–Sat: 10 am–8 pm
Dec 24: Open 8 am–3 pm
Dec 25: Closed
Dec 26: Return to normal hours
Dec 31 & Jan 1: Closed
Closed all Mondays in January
Glass Vase by William Ortman