UMOCA Annual Gala 2023 Embraces Surrealism in an Unforgettable Evening of Enchantment & Philanthropy

↗ View more photos from this year’s gala

On June 10, 2023, the Utah Museum of Contemporary Art held its annual gala with proceeds going towards UMOCA’s exhibitions, education programs, and community outreach – all vital aspects of the UMOCA mission:

Through programming, advocacy, and collaboration, we work with artists and communities to build a better world.

Highlights from this signature fundraiser included dazzling Surrealist costumes; a cocktail hour; a seated dinner in the UMOCA pavilion; silent and live auctions featuring works from 46 local contemporary artists; and performances from DJ Adam Michael Terry and the drag queen musicians Marrlo Suzzanne and the Galaxxy Band.

All this revelry translated to sustaining support of the museum, which will enable UMOCA to host more than 20 exhibitions annually; serve more than 12,000 K-12 students throughout the state; and feature the work of over 100 contemporary artists from a diverse array of experiences, cultures, and geographies. It also helps UMOCA galleries remain free and open to all, creating a welcoming space for visitors from around the world to expand perspectives, engage in lively conversation, and experience artistic joy and connection.

Thanks to tremendous community support, UMOCA raised a record amount at the gala this year. Our deepest gratitude goes to UMOCA members, donors, partners, and local artists for helping us achieve this milestone with their generosity. We are honored to be doing this work and proud to stand alongside supporters like you. Cheers!

The 2023 UMOCA Gala: Surrealism is made possible in part by the Sam and Diane Stewart Family Foundation; the George S. and Dolores Doré Eccles Foundation; the Jacquelyn and Gregory Zehner Foundation; Zions Bank; Bonnie and Lee Kirkpatrick; Gary Vlasic; Dara Modern; Beehive Distillery; and Sugarhouse Distilling.

Special thanks to the UMOCA Board of Trustees, including Board President Rich Walje and Gala Committee Chair Elizabeth Shaw.