On October 7, 2024, the Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) Chicago hosted its annual Visionary Luncheon, an event that continues to cement its place as a highlight of the city’s cultural calendar. Nearly 350 attendees—representing Chicago’s most esteemed business, civic, and creative leaders—gathered to celebrate innovation, philanthropy, and the vital role of art in shaping the world.
This year’s luncheon stood out not just for its prestigious attendees but for the boldness of its message: art is essential, and the communities that sustain it are vital to its survival. More than $640,000 was raised to support MCA’s educational programs, a significant achievement that underscores the museum’s ability to inspire, galvanize, and connect people across sectors.
Art in Conversation: Sarah Sze and Madeleine Grynsztejn
At the heart of the Visionary Luncheon was a conversation between artist Sarah Sze and MCA Pritzker Director Madeleine Grynsztejn. Sze, celebrated for her intricate sculptural installations and explorations of space and perception, shared reflections of her journey as an artist and the role of museums in amplifying an artist’s voice.
Sze began by recounting her first institutional solo exhibition at the MCA, a milestone that shaped her understanding of how museums can transform art into an experience. “The MCA taught me how to think of my work in relation to the viewer,” Sze explained, adding that it was a place where her installations were given room to challenge and reimagine space.
Their discussion also touched on the collaborative relationship between artists and institutions. Grynsztejn asked Sze about the process of creating art for specific spaces, to which Sze responded: “It’s always about finding ways to invite the audience to see differently.” This philosophy underscores the mission of both Sze’s work and the MCA, which seeks to transform perspectives and inspire reflection through contemporary art.
Honoring Leadership and Vision
The luncheon also served as a platform to celebrate leaders who have made significant contributions to the arts. The 2024 Arts Philanthropy Award was presented to BMO Bank N.A., a long-time supporter of arts education in Chicago. Accepting the award, BMO President and CEO Darrel Hackett highlighted the importance of corporate responsibility in enriching the cultural fabric of the community.
“We view the arts as a critical part of education and innovation,” Hackett shared, emphasizing BMO’s commitment to supporting programs that nurture creativity and critical thinking. Alongside Hackett, MCA Trustee Nickol Hackett was also recognized for her personal dedication to philanthropy, further underscoring the deep connection between leadership and the arts.
This recognition reinforced a theme woven throughout the luncheon: the arts flourish when businesses, individuals, and communities come together with a shared vision. BMO’s contributions to the MCA’s initiatives are a testament to the power of partnerships in creating access and opportunity for future generations.
Investing in Education
One of the most compelling aspects of the Visionary Luncheon was its focus on education. The funds raised during the event will directly support the MCA’s Learning programs, which prioritize accessibility and inclusion. These programs, which span workshops, school partnerships, and community outreach, aim to ensure that appreciating and creating art is not a privilege but a right.
MCA’s Learning programs are rooted in the belief that art is transformative. For youth in underserved communities, engaging with contemporary art can spark creativity, build confidence, and encourage new ways of thinking. Teachers and educators, too, benefit from the museum’s professional development offerings, which help integrate art into classroom curricula.
The luncheon highlighted stories of students and educators whose lives have been touched by these programs. From a middle school student discovering their passion for design during a field trip, to a teacher who found new ways to inspire their class, the impact of the MCA’s educational efforts was evident.
Visionary Leadership Behind the Scenes
The success of the Visionary Luncheon can be attributed to the dedicated leadership behind the event. This year’s cochairs: including King Harris, Rachel Grund, Marlene Breslow-Blitstein, Susan Brunstrum, and Marcia Fraerman, played an instrumental role in its planning and execution. Their collective efforts ensured that every detail—from the programming to the fundraising goals—reflected the MCA’s commitment to excellence.
Leadership at the MCA extends beyond events like the luncheon. It is reflected in the museum’s broader initiatives to foster inclusivity, diversity, equity, and accessibility (IDEA). By prioritizing these values, the MCA continues to position itself as a leader in creating spaces where art and community intersect.
The Role of Partnerships: Max Mara’s Support
Max Mara, an iconic Italian fashion house, lent its support as a sponsor of this year’s Visionary Luncheon. Known for its timeless designs and commitment to empowering women, Max Mara has long been a patron of the arts.
Their involvement with the MCA is part of a broader commitment to fostering creativity and supporting emerging talent. Max Mara’s initiatives, including collaborations with the Whitney Museum and its Art Prize for Women, align seamlessly with the MCA’s mission of amplifying diverse voices in the arts.
Through partnerships like this, the luncheon illustrated the interconnectedness of art, fashion, and philanthropy. Max Mara’s support not only underscored its belief in the transformative power of art, but also highlighted the importance of creative industries coming together to champion shared values.
A Commitment to IDEA: Inclusion, Diversity,
Equity, and Accessibility
Throughout the luncheon, the MCA’s dedication to IDEA principles was evident. These values are not just a part of the museum’s mission statement—they are embedded in its programs, exhibitions, and initiatives.
For instance, the MCA has made strides in ensuring that its spaces are accessible to all, offering free admission to youth under 18, veterans, and active-duty military. Partnerships with local organizations further extend the museum’s reach into underserved communities, creating opportunities for individuals who might not otherwise have access to contemporary art.
This commitment to inclusion was highlighted in the stories shared during the luncheon. Attendees heard about programs that provide platforms for underrepresented artists and initiatives that engage audiences from diverse cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds. The MCA’s work is a reminder that art is not just for the privileged—it is for everyone.
Looking to the Future
The Visionary Luncheon was not only a reflection of past accomplishments but also a glimpse into the MCA’s aspirations for the future. As the museum continues to evolve, its focus remains on fostering connections between artists, audiences, and communities.
The funds raised at the luncheon will enable the MCA to expand its educational programs and deepen its impact in the years to come. By prioritizing accessibility and innovation, the museum is ensuring that it remains a vital part of Chicago’s cultural landscape.
Looking ahead, the MCA is poised to lead conversations about the role of contemporary art in addressing societal challenges. Whether through thought-provoking exhibitions, partnerships with local schools, or events like the Visionary Luncheon, the museum is committed to making art a force for change.
The 2024 Visionary Luncheon was more than a fundraising event—it was a celebration of the power of art to unite, inspire, and transform. From the dynamic conversation with Sarah Sze, to the recognition of leaders like Darrel and Nickol Hackett, the luncheon exemplified the MCA’s mission to elevate contemporary art and make it accessible to all.
Through partnerships with sponsors like Max Mara and the generosity of its supporters, the MCA continues to build a future where art serves as a bridge between cultures, ideas, and people. The Visionary Luncheon was a reminder that art is not a luxury but a necessity—an essential part of what makes us human.
As the MCA moves forward, it will undoubtedly continue to shape the cultural fabric of Chicago and beyond, one visionary at a time.
Creative Credits
- Written by
- Félix Magazine Editorial Staff
- Senior Editor
- Laura Notorangelo
- Image courtesy
- Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago
- Photography
- Jeremy Lawson
