The Berkshires in Western, MA, are known for world-class cultural attractions, and MassArt alumni and friends gathered there recently for an unforgettable weekend of connection. Hosted by MassArt President Mary K. Grant and MassArt Alumni Relations, the itinerary featured innovative art and special programming centered around the solo exhibitions by artists Abelardo Morell (MassArt Professor Emeritus) at the Clark Art Institute in Williamstown, MA, and Steve Locke BFA ’97, MFA ’01 (former MassArt professor) at MASS MoCA in North Adams, MA. 

“What a wonderful event! I got to meet other alumni who literally work down the street from me and have applied their creative frameworks to so many different types of careers, from exhibit preparation to art library leadership,” said Cecilia Hirsch (MFA ’95). “Hearing from President Grant and Abe Morell was so special — each shared such heart-warming appreciation and dedication to MassArt’s wide-reaching mission. I walked away, on this snowy January night, feeling such warmth and excitement about the future of MassArt and the generosity and talent it nurtures, from its students to its faculty.” 

Morell and Anne Leonard (Manton Curator of Prints, Drawings, and Photographs at the Clark Art Institute) treated the group to a guided walkthrough of Morell’s exhibition In the Company of Monet and Constable, where viewers are invited to see the world in new ways through the incorporation of camera obscura. 

Locke and Evan Garza (MassMOCA curator) inspired a thought-provoking discussion on racial violence in our country and the role of art in fostering reflection, dialogue, and a search for justice, sparked by Locke’s latest exhibition, the fire next time. The crowd was a wonderful mix of the MassArt community, including 40 students and some faculty, who joined the conversation.

“Our alumni are a shining example of the value and excellence of a MassArt education,” shared Vice President of Institutional Advancement and Executive Director of the MassArt Foundation Emily Foster Day. “It is always an honor to gather with this community to learn about and celebrate how our alumni are changing the world.” 

The MassArt alumni community is a network of more than 20,000 alumni worldwide. For more information on our MassArt alumni gatherings, visit https://massart.edu/alumni.