By Randy Mancilla & Arlene Sanchez
The Museum of Contemporary Arts (MOCA) in Los Angeles hosted their MOCA Teen Night on April 29. The theme for this year’s event was “Anthem.” MOCA Teen Night is an event for teens that celebrates their original artwork, allows students to create art, as well as meet artists and museum professionals.
Fitting for the theme, this year’s event featured live performances by the teenage artists Lena Joy, Sleeve of Steeve, and Malarchy. There was a large dance floor where event participants supported these upcoming artists and danced along. Along with musical performances, there was a play produced by teenager Isabella Wit, from the New Roads School.
MOCA Teen Night included a variety of non-alcoholic drinks with unique names. One of these new drinks served from the bar was called LA River Water. The beverage had a mix of sprite and mint bar syrup in order to give it a unique flavor and color. The mocktails gave the evening an air of sophistication and maturity despite being geared toward teens.
There was also an arts and crafts station. Participants were able to make crafts such as unique pins out of cut out images and Chinese lanterns made from a metal bar and wax paper.
The most important part of the event, however, was the teen artwork showcased at the museum. One standout art piece included a silhouette made up of target practice sheets. This work included 3D elements to enhance the 2D art piece. The outline of a girl walking, made out of target practice papers, gave audiences the impression that she was a body outline made by police. The work criticizes death by guns.
There were many other works included at the MOCA Teen Night. Another work included the personification of a pierced apple being tortured by two human hands to let out its juice. The apple seemed to be screaming in pain. Other pieces included a statue of a glowing heart of an anatomical heart with veins, a statue of an orange monarch butterfly tree composed of humans, and a screaming lady against the backdrop of a cityscape.
The MOCA Teen Night worked to give all teenagers a chance to present their art and to view others’ art while also providing fun artistic activities to enjoy. MOCA hosts this event each year, and it is always worth the trip. Even better, it is free.
The MOCA Teen Night is hosted by the MOCA Teen Program, which includes a group of teens who engage with the works of the museum by collaborating with each other on projects and working with artists.
The program brings together high school juniors and seniors who receive the opportunity to go behind the scenes of the museum with professional art as well as the museum staff. Check out the MOCA website for applications.
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