Five Ways UMOCA Art Trips Make an Impact

Guest post by Kaitlin Mills, Development Strategist at UMOCA

If you’ve ever dreamed of traveling the world while diving into the global art scene, UMOCA’s Art Trips are your ticket. These curated journeys don’t just take you to the heart of the world’s best art fairs—they ripple outward, shaping how we connect art, culture, and community back home in Utah.

As UMOCA’s Development Strategist, I’ve had the privilege of seeing first-hand how these trips do so much more than give participants unforgettable memories. They strengthen our mission, connect us globally, and make a tangible difference right here in Utah.

Here are my top five reasons why UMOCA Art Trips matter:

1. They Fuel UMOCA’s Mission

UMOCA is a nonprofit museum, and much of what we do is free and open to the public thanks to community support. Art Trips double as essential fundraisers. Last year alone, they generated $83,400—funds that keep bold contemporary art accessible to Utah audiences. When you travel with us, you’re not just seeing the world; you’re sustaining art at home.

2. They’re Immersive, Not Cookie-Cutter

These aren’t off-the-shelf vacations. From Frieze London to ZsONAMACO in Mexico City, Art Basel Miami Beach, and even the New Orleans Jazz Festival, every itinerary is hand-curated to blend art, food, and culture in ways that create unforgettable experiences.

3. They Open Doors to the Art World

Travelers don’t just visit galleries—they gain insider access. With UMOCA’s curator and executive director as guides, participants come away with fresh insights into contemporary art and a deeper sense of belonging in the art world. As past traveler Elizabeth Shaw put it:

“I always wanted to be an ‘art girl’ but the art world can be intimidating! Going on a UMOCA art trip is like being pulled up to the cool kids’ table. The access is awesome, and the knowledge shared really makes you feel like part of the cognoscenti.”

4. They Keep UMOCA Globally Connected

By engaging with artists, curators, and galleries abroad, UMOCA’s leadership stays connected to the pulse of the international art scene. These relationships spark new ideas, partnerships, and exhibitions that continually refresh what we offer in Utah.

5. They Bring the World Back to Utah

The ripple effects are real: even if you never step on a plane, you benefit. Art Trips have led directly to exhibitions at UMOCA, from introducing Utah audiences to celebrated artists like William Kentridge and Do Ho Suh to shaping recent shows like Something From Everything and Mariposa. The result is global voices and perspectives translated into relevant, local experiences.

In short: UMOCA Art Trips aren’t just about travel. They’re about transformation—fueling our mission, enriching cultural experiences, deepening knowledge, strengthening global connections, and bringing the art world home to Utah.

To learn more about upcoming UMOCA Art Trips, send an email to kaitlin.mills@utahmoca.org.