Art Harbors Community Resilience
Art also has the power to connect people and create space for community. At monca we are happy to host events regularly that bring people of many backgrounds together.
Opening receptions are great opportunities to feel like a part of the monca family. These events celebrate the installation of new exhibitions in the gallery spaces. Opening receptions are always free to the public and offer a bar for refreshments. Often artists whose artwork is on view in the galleries will attend openings.
A monca opening reception is a great way to meet new friends, spend time with loved ones, and support the arts. The joys of visiting monca go beyond momentary fun.
The Facts
“Engagement with the arts can also lead to greater prosocial behaviors within communities, including volunteering and charitable giving, and can enhance social consciousness,” according to a 2017 study published by the National Institutes of Health titled, The Arts as a Catalyst for Human Prosociality and Cooperation.
Another NIH study published in 2019 found "Activities that involve the simultaneous engagement of multiple individuals, for example group participation in activities such as crafts and singing, are particularly effective at fostering cooperation, self-concept and a sense of social inclusion for children, adults, families and communities and across different cultures." Small changes lead to great impacts. Little choices like bringing a friend to a lecture at the museum can help you and everyone around you feel like a part of something important - because you are. Every monca patron is special and helps us maintain the health of our community.
A Home Away from Home
When you choose to visit monca, you are choosing community. As a result of participating in the arts, you have the potential to become a more generous and aware individual. The benefits of the arts are self-sustaining.
The feeling of place and serenity that monca harbors is always available to you. We invite you to join us whenever you can to help build community positivity and develop a great appreciation for local arts and artists.
Understanding Diversity
In efforts to build community, monca is conscious of our responsibility to accurately represent and support the diverse community we are a part of. The museum is proud to collaborate with a variety of local organizations like the ARC of Butte County, Chico Visual Arts Alliance, Legacy Stage, and more. Rather than act as the sole arts authority of the area, monca is committed to uplifting the voices of local artists and advocates.
Educational events like lectures hosted by ASL instructor and artist, Valerie Rose, as well as exhibitions curated by organizations like the Stonewall Alliance of Chico help the community we love feel represented and supported while expanding the perspectives of those unfamiliar with our partners.
monca provides opportunities to connect with the community through events like Puppet Shows, Clothing Swaps, Concerts, and more!
