The Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art (SMoCA) is a haven for contemporary art lovers, offering a diverse range of exhibitions that challenge, entertain, and inspire. Dive into the latest exhibitions and discover the world through the eyes of visionary artists.
Introduction to Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art (SMoCA)
Situated in the heart of Scottsdale, Arizona, the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art is a premiere destination for contemporary art, architecture, and design. With a commitment to presenting exhibitions that provoke thought and stimulate discussion, SMoCA has become a sanctuary for the art of our time. From large-scale installations to intimate galleries, SMoCA invites visitors to engage with the art and the ideas that it generates.
“Beyond Performance” by Tiffany Trenda
- Tiffany Trenda’s steadfast gaze hints at the depth of her series, ‘Beyond Performance’. Source: smoca.org
“Beyond Performance” is an innovative series by Tiffany Trenda that merges performance art with artificial intelligence to create a unique exploration of the body’s place in art. By utilizing smart applications alongside her performance archive, Trenda crafts digital narratives that challenge our perceptions of identity, embodiment, and technology. These digital performances blur the lines between reality and fiction, setting the stage for a deeper conversation about our digital and physical selves.
Carolina Aranibar-Fernández’s “Oleaje”
- ‘Oleaje’ by Carolina Aranibar-Fernández, reflecting on global trade’s tides. Source: smoca.org
In “Oleaje,” Bolivian-born artist Carolina Aranibar-Fernández presents a striking commentary on the impacts of global trade through her large-scale installations. Mapping the movement of resources and the scars left on the earth by the industry, Aranibar-Fernández’s work weaves together cartography and topography to showcase the devastating effects of extraction and exploitation. Through her intricate and labor-intensive artworks, she gives voice to those affected by global trade, including displaced communities and degraded environments.
Dorothy Fratt: “Color Mirage”
- Dorothy Fratt’s ‘Color Mirage’ captures the vibrancy of abstract expression. Source: smoca.org
“Dorothy Fratt: Color Mirage” sheds light on the underrecognized American painter who made her mark with vibrant abstract expressions that gave form to the landscapes and moods of the Southwest. Fratt’s unique blend of color field and abstract expressionism offers a luminous and emotional journey through her artwork, showcasing a lifetime of innovation and exploration. This exhibition serves as a tribute to Fratt’s prolific career and her contribution to American art.
Roelof Knol’s Immersive Art
- Inside ‘the space in between’ by Roelof Knol: a journey through form and void. Source: smoca.org
Emerging Dutch artist Roelof Knol invites us into “the space in between,” an immersive installation that playfully marries digital and physical realms. Through interactive projections and sound, the exhibition offers a shared space for connection and reflection, encouraging visitors to navigate their relationship with both visible and invisible worlds.
Kenaim Al-Shatti’s “Dreams Don’t Have Time”
- Kenaim Al-Shatti’s ‘Dreams Don’t Have Time’ invites viewers into a world of narrative depth. Source: smoca.org
Kenaim Al-Shatti transforms the museum space into a mesmerizing, dreamlike environment with his large-scale video installation, “Dreams Don’t Have Time.” Through vibrant colors and immersive experiences, Al-Shatti explores the concept of time, dreams, and the subconscious mind, inviting viewers to lose themselves in an otherworldly landscape.
A Warm Welcome with Janel Garza’s “Environ”
- ‘paper shapes’ by Roelof Knol, exploring the tactile dimensions of art. Source: smoca.org
“Environ,” a mural by local artist Janel Garza, offers a vibrant welcome to visitors of SMoCA, echoing the colors and forms of the museum’s architectural features and surrounding desert landscape. Garza’s abstract design harmonizes with the museum setting, creating a dynamic and inviting space for art engagement and reflection.
These exhibitions only scratch the surface of the vibrant and dynamic programming available at the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art. Each artist brings their unique perspective, inviting visitors to engage with contemporary issues and timeless questions through the lens of creative expression. As SMoCA continues to showcase innovative art and artists, it reaffirms its place as a beacon of cultural exploration in the Southwest.
To stay updated on upcoming exhibitions and events, consider signing up for SMoCA’s newsletter and embark on a journey of artistic discovery and conversation. Whether you’re a long-time art enthusiast or new to the contemporary art scene, SMoCA welcomes you to explore, question, and connect with the art of our time.
Immerse yourself in the world of contemporary art at the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art. Plan your visit today to experience these extraordinary exhibitions and discover the power of art to inspire, challenge, and transform.
