Dive Deeper: Insights from the Museum of the Future

Dear Friends, The summer of 2020 is sweltering with a global pandemic, staggering economic hardship, and protests for a more perfect Union, demanding equality and social change that eradicates systemic racism. Though many of us are quarantined away from pools and beaches, let us be reminded of water as a soothing element that can bring stability and balance through the energy of an undulating tide. This month, Miami MoCAAD features artists who engage water to convey meditative images of expression and transformation and to illuminate the human spirit. Additionally, we present “Moments” of inspiration and exploration through virtual museum exhibitions, a talk with art historian and curator, Dr. Erica Moiah James, reflections on Miami’s black history, virtual concerts, summer youth activities, and our congratulations to Heavyn Lee, a Miami Beach High graduate heading to Harvard. We remind all to wear masks, and stay safe and smart to protect ourselves and each other. Onward! The Miami MoCAAD Team

Dear Friends,You have a voice that deserves to be heard and a vote that deserves to be counted. In a nation built on the promise of democracy, your vote is essential! If change is important, change must be demanded--in peaceful protests and at the polls. As we approach deadlines for voter registration next month, let us be inspired by the plight of this moment to participate in our local, state and national elections.September 18, 2020 marked the passing of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. Justice Ginsburg's support for gender equity, marriage equality and voting rights defines her legacy as a giant for justice. We send our condolences to her family and loved ones. May her memory inspire and give hope. This month, Miami MoCAAD features artists whose art encourages and emphasizes civic engagement in the United States and abroad. Additionally, we present “Moments” of inspiration and exploration through museum moments, reading moments focusing on Black Florida history, an upcoming Virtual Town Hall on civic engagement and voting, quiz and music moments, and much more. We remind all to wear masks, and stay safe and smart to protect ourselves and each other. Onward!The Miami MoCAAD Team

Dear Friends, As Women's History Month closes and International Black Women's Month opens, we pause in remembrance of Breonna Taylor and Sandra Bland, two black women who died much to young. The world changed on March 13, 2020. The untimely death of 26 year old Breonna Taylor forever marks this day. At about 12:40 a.m., police officers in Louisville, Kentucky, executing a no-knock warrant, killed Breonna Taylor in her bed. Her death devastated her family and outraged the nation. Many artists, including Njideka Akunyili Crosby, LaToya Ruby Frazier, and Amy Sherald, created tributes honoring Breonna Taylor. We continue to be haunted by the violent police treatment of 28 year old Sandra Bland during a minor traffic stop in July, 2015, and her death three days later in a jail cell where she was found hanged. Her family disputed the ruling that her death was suicide. She was optimistically looking forward to a new job, which was to start in nearly two weeks when her young life was cut short. We lift up and say the names of Sandra Bland and Breonna Taylor as we must "Say Her Name"! This edition of the newsletter includes art moments featuring women artists, highlights of upcoming virtual talks and exhibitions, and chill and music moments at the end. Onward!