The Art of Now: A Journey Through SCAD MOA’s Exhibitions

Written by Mia Aponte. Graphic by Kaitlin Elliott.

The Art of Now: A Journey Through SCAD MOA’s Exhibitions

SCAD Museum of Art (MOA) never ceases to impress with its diverse and thought-provoking exhibitions. This season, the SCAD Museum of Art presents a rich collection of works, each pushing boundaries and redefining narratives. From immersive installations to emotive visual journeys, these exhibitions explore identity, culture and human experience in captivating ways. Here’s a glimpse into the ongoing exhibits that should be on your radar:

“No Simple Matter” – Group Exhibition 

(On view through Nov. 18)

This group exhibition, aptly named “No Simple Matter”, is an evocative exploration of complex themes and challenging realities. The works provoke contemplation on the nuances of daily life and cultural intersections, weaving together narratives that reflect personal and collective struggles. The exhibit serves as a visual symposium of ideas where each piece encourages the viewer to rethink their perceptions and question their own beliefs.

Anya Molyviatis – “SUBMERGE” 

(On view through Nov. 25)

Anya Molyviatis’ solo exhibit “SUBMERGE” plunges the audience into an ethereal realm, bridging nature and the subconscious. Molyviatis uses aquatic imagery and fluid textures to evoke feelings of immersion and introspection. Each piece beckons the viewer to lose themselves in a world where reality blurs with the surreal, evoking a dreamlike quality that lingers long after viewing.

Isabel Toledo – “A Love Letter” 

(On view through Dec. 16)

“A Love Letter” is a poetic homage to craftsmanship and design. Isabel Toledo’s exhibition is a celebration of fabric, form, and femininity. Known for her innovative approach to fashion, Toledo crafts an intimate narrative that feels like a whisper of admiration to her audience. Her works transcend conventional boundaries, exploring the intersection between wearable art and personal storytelling.

Olimpia Zagnoli – “Multifaceted” 

(On view through Dec. 23)

Bold, vibrant, and unapologetically playful, “Multifaceted” by Olimpia Zagnoli is an ode to color and abstraction. Her geometric compositions offer a refreshing perspective on simplicity, while her saturated color palette draws viewers into a dynamic, visual conversation. Zagnoli’s works invite audiences to embrace a joyful exploration of form, identity, and whimsy.

Anthony Olubunmi Akinbola – “Good Hair” 

(On view through Dec. 23)

Anthony Olubunmi Akinbola’s “Good Hair” is a cultural statement. His immersive installation examines identity, race, and beauty standards through the lens of hair as a symbol. Akinbola uses vivid textures and striking visual motifs to spark discussions around Black identity and self-perception. Each piece is an intricate narrative, inviting viewers to confront social and cultural implications.

Monira Al Qadiri – “Holy Quarter” 

(On view through Dec. 23)

In “Holy Quarter,” Monira Al Qadiri delves into the fusion of ancient culture and futuristic vision. The exhibit melds history with science fiction, presenting a narrative that blurs the lines between the past and a speculative future. Al Qadiri’s works reflect on the region’s landscapes and mysticism, evoking a sense of wonder that is both otherworldly and deeply grounded.

Thukral & Tagra – “Arboretum” 

(On view through Dec. 30)

Thukral & Tagra’s “Arboretum” is an imaginative take on environmental conservation and collective responsibility. This installation interweaves art and activism, immersing viewers in a narrative that emphasizes the urgency of ecological mindfulness. By creating a space reminiscent of a lush digital garden, Thukral & Tagra inspire audiences to re-evaluate their relationship with nature.

Dan Flavin – “Works from Dia Art Foundation” 

(On view through Jan. 6, 2025)

Dan Flavin’s light installations are iconic within the minimalist movement. This exhibit, showcasing works from the Dia Art Foundation, is a masterclass in using light and space as primary media. Flavin’s fluorescent tubes, arranged in geometric configurations, transform the gallery into a meditation on color and form. The subtlety of the works invites visitors to experience the interplay between illumination and architecture.

George Clinton – “Cloaked in a Cloud, Disguised in the Sky” 

(On view through Jan. 27, 2025)

Legendary funk musician George Clinton transcends musical boundaries in “Cloaked in a Cloud, Disguised in the Sky.” Clinton explores themes of mythology, space, and Afrofuturism, presenting an exhibit that is as expansive and imaginative as his musical career. Each piece feels like an extension of his artistry, blending cosmic imagery with narratives of Black identity and liberation.

The SCAD Museum of Art continues to be a cultural hub, offering a platform for artists who challenge norms and redefine creative expression. Each exhibit invites the viewer on a journey, whether through the quiet intimacy of Toledo’s “A Love Letter” or the vibrant abstraction of Zagnoli’s “Multifaceted.” Don’t miss this chance to witness a dialogue between past, present, and future in a space where the possibilities are endless.