The Museum of Contemporary Art today announced the donation of $10 million by Sydney business leaders and philanthropists David Coe and Simon Mordant and their families, to kick start the campaign to expand the MCA.
"This level of philanthropy for contemporary visual arts is unprecedented and we hope that it will attract further support to make our enlarged vision for contemporary art in Australia a reality," said MCA Director Elizabeth Ann Macgregor. The announcement represents a new era of arts philanthropy in Australia, reflecting widespread appreciation for contemporary art in Australia.
"These two leading philanthropists are demonstrating visionary leadership in Australian arts philanthropy," said Ms Macgregor.
The funds are for the extension of the current MCA building on West Circular Quay, which will see the existing car park converted into a new educational wing and improved gallery space, as well as required renovations to the existing building interiors.
Newly appointed chair of the MCA Foundation Simon Mordant said: "These changes will see the MCA
transformed into a world class contemporary art exhibition space, collecting institution and centre for creative learning. Planned extensions and refurbishment to the building and clever use of new technologies will combine to create a globally relevant contemporary arts cultural centre, so essential to a thriving and vibrant community."
"As with all our benefactors, we have given Simon and David a guarantee that their generous donations will only be drawn upon once the total sum of funding required for the transformation has been confirmed and all necessary approvals received," said Ms Macgregor.
MCA Chairman David Coe said: "I look forward to working with Simon and Liz Ann on the campaign to raise the remainder of the funds required to realise our exciting vision." -- www.mca.com.au
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