Museum of Contemporary Art Tucson

Tucson, AZ

Established by artists in 1997, the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) is Tucson’s only museum devoted exclusively to contemporary art from around the globe. Housed in a repurposed firehouse, MOCA Tucson applies creative solutions to the problems of today and tomorrow through the vehicle of contemporary art. This includes programming that is ambitious, innovative, and is responsive to the wants and needs of their community. MOCA is committed to operating sustainably, and over the past five years, the museum’s exhibitions and programs reflect a deep commitment to ecological themes, land-based practices, strategic and resourceful reuse and waste diversion, and a dramatic reduction in art shipping in favor of site-responsive commissions that incorporate locally sourced materials.

MOCA Tucson is located within the Sonoran Desert region—an area experiencing severe climate-related impacts including extreme heat, drought, water shortages, energy inefficiencies, and infrastructural issues. Due to an increase in severe climate events and a need to support the future-proof the development of MOCA Tucson and its mission, repairs to the building’s roof will catalyze a series of major facilities improvements oriented towards sustainability. The longer term significance of this project is that it prepares the museum for the introduction of solar panels and helps the museum achieve energy independence from an outdated and inefficient municipal power grid.

Milestones

• Reinsulation of the sub-roof and comprehensive repair of the roof

• Structural repairs to improve the building envelope