“Driving down Michigan Avenue, you could easily miss it.” That’s how one article described the Museum of Contemporary Photography. Today we are going to explore the Museum of Contemporary Photography MoCP.
The Museum of Contemporary Photography was founded in 1976. It began as the successor to the Chicago Center for Contemporary Photography. Columbia College Chicago founded it. The MoCP stands as the only museum in the Midwest dedicated solely to photography.
Initially, the permanent collection focused on American photographers since the 1950s. Later, it expanded to include works from the 1930s. These included Farm Security Administration photographs. The museum also added works by international artists.
The Museum of Contemporary Photography started collecting in the early 1980s. Since then, its collection has grown immensely. It now holds over 17000 objects. These works represent over 1900 artists. The MoCP is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums.
The permanent collection features many famous names. Ansel Adams, Harry Callahan, and Henri Cartier-Bresson are included. You’ll also find Julia Margaret Cameron and Walker Evans. Dorothea Lange, Irving Penn, and David Plowden are represented. Aaron Siskind and Victor Skrebneski are there too. The collection includes gelatin-silver prints and color work. Digital pieces and photograms can be seen. Various alternative processes are also on display.
Several notable exhibitions have been hosted at the MoCP. “Paul Shambroom Evidence of Democracy” was shown in 2003. “Michael Wolf The Transparent City and Work/Place” was exhibited in 2008 and 2009. “Guy Tillim Avenue Patrice Lumumba” was presented in 2011.
The Museum of Contemporary Photography has an outsized reputation. It lives at the cutting edge of art. Budding artists seek to launch their careers here. Established artists test new ideas within its walls.
The MoCP also houses the Midwest Photographers Project. This contains portfolios of artists who reside in the Midwestern United States.
Natasha Egan serves as the executive director of the Museum of Contemporary Photography. Karen Irvine is the Chief Curator and Deputy Director. Together, they are known as the Natasha and Karen Show.
The MoCP is a teaching museum. It serves many students from across Chicago. Teen programs and artist-led workshops are offered. A bus subsidy program aids underserved schools. These initiatives bring thousands of students to the museum.
Irvine emphasizes giving students access to the arts. Photography is a relatable medium for young audiences. She states that you don’t have to be knowledgeable about art to have a meaningful experience in this space.
The MoCP tackles issues of social justice and equity. In 2020, an exhibit questioned democracy during an election year. An upcoming exhibit will explore gun violence.
The Museum of Contemporary Photography is an international hub. It generates ideas and provokes dialogue. It cultivates a deeper understanding of photography’s roles. These roles are artistic, cultural, and political.
The MoCP is located at 600 South Michigan Avenue. It is open to the public. Be sure to check the website for hours and current exhibitions before your visit.
The Museum of Contemporary Photography is more than just a museum. It is a center for learning, a platform for artists, and a voice for social change.