Ancient Futures: The DNA of Cultures & Civilizations On View: June 21 - September 7, 2008 The Museum of Contemporary African Diasporan Arts (MoCADA) is proud to present Ancient Futures: The DNA of Cultures and Civilizations. A revival of the critically acclaimed 1990s Avant Yard underground art movement in Tribeca, that took the New York art world by storm, the exhibition Ancient Futures will feature work from several of the previously exhibited artists that started the revolution, as well as newer, emerging artists that are continuing the tradition of pushing the envelope. This group exhibition explores the "underground art movement" during the early 90s, while updating new visitors to emerging provocative artists coming onto the scene. Through a cutting edge collaboration of art and music, visitors will have the opportunity to experience a multi-sensory journey, while also receiving commentary on current cultural, political and social events. By highlighting the role of the artist as it relates to social activism, Ancient Futures attempts to create a dialogue by utilizing art and music as a platform, while embracing the idea that individual artistic expression is necessary. Ancient Futures is an exploration into the mental make-up of the U.S. social system: the beauty, ugliness, abstraction, music, and color. It is a celebration of who individuals are in the present in relation to their past, and how they now forge their new futures. After all, the present is nothing more than pre-sent moments. Upcoming Events Educational and Public Programs : The Opening Night Reception of the Avant Yard exhibition at MoCADA was an amazing evening of art, music, dance and creative expression. A lot of children and parents were there. Don't forget that we also have a great line up of educational programs surrounding this exhibition: July 10th 6-8pm Artist Talk & Curatorial Discussion. Participating artists : Francks DeCeus, Jamel Shabazz, Kip Omolade, Terry Boddie, William Rhodes, Jennifer Crute & Laura James. August 9th 1-4pm Children's Workshop with artist, Dirk Joseph September 7th 3-7pm Closing Reception Gift Shop Don't forget to shop at MoCADA's elegant gift shop... Image: Malik Yusef Cumbo, TRUE ABOUT AVANT YARD Avant Yard is an organization dedicated to the preservation of art past and present for future generations. Through partnerships with cultural institutions and progressive companies, Avant Yard produces unique exhibitions of emerging artists and educational workshops for all ages. By creating venues that foster an environment for creative expression we strive to expose and support the "underground artist" and celebrate their diversity of expression. Avant Yard functions with the core belief that art and music are vehicles for progressive social change. About MoCADA MoCADA is devoted to utilizing the visual arts as a medium to address, discuss, debate and resolve contemporary social, political and economic issues that affect the people of the African Diaspora through the creation of innovative exhibitions, public programs, community outreach initiatives and educational interactive tours. The experiences and cultural contributions of people of African descent have been grossly marginalized throughout history. In less than nine years, MoCADA has established a reputation for creating stellar programs focused on the African Diaspora. The KIDflix Outdoor Film Festival of Bed-Stuy, the FAMflix Film Fest of Brownsville, the High School & College Internship Programs, and the National Black Fine Art Show Educational Series are a few of the educational and public programs MoCADA develops each year. The operation of MoCADA is supported with public funds provided by The New York City Department of Cultural Affairs, the New York State Council on the Arts - A State Agency, the Union Square Awards, the New York State Office of Education and the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation. Major funding is also provided by Target, JPMorganChase and Independence Community Foundation.

ADDRESS Located at 80 Hanson Place at South Portland in Downtown Brooklyn, near the Brooklyn Academy of Music. BY SUBWAY The 2, 3, 4, 5, B, and Q stop at Atlantic Avenue. The D, M, N, and R stop at Pacific Avenue. The C stops at Lafayette Avenue. The G stops at Fulton Street. ADMISSION Suggested donation: $4 for adults, $3 for students (with valid ID) and seniors. Free for children 12 and under. HOURS The museum is open Wednesday - Sunday 11am - 6pm