Released on = September 10, 2006, 10:41 pm

Press Release Author = Richard Gipe

Industry = Small Business

Press Release Summary = Hot Springs, AR September 7, 2006-
The Museum of Contemporary Art of Hot Springs (MOCA) took a major step forward on
August 23, 2006 when the United States Department of the Interior selected MOCA as a
suitable tenant for the Ozark Bathhouse within the Hot Springs National Park. The
next step will be negotiation of the actual lease.

Press Release Body = The Ozark Bathhouse is a historic structure on Historic
Bathhouse Row in downtown Hot Springs, Arkansas. The structure is a National
Monument and has undergone extensive refurbishment including the installation of
heat and air and an elevator.
Richard Gipe, President of MOCA, states, "The building is in move in condition.
Literally all we will have to do is install lighting and hanging system and we could
open our doors to the public. We have two significant challenges, first we must
demonstrate our financial capability in order to complete the lease negotiation
process and second we must arrange a series of shows while we build our permanent
collection."
The Selections Committee for MOCA is seeking significant works by primarily living
artists who have worked since 1900. The ideal artist for our collection will have:
I. works in other museums; ii. works in important private collections; iii. Strong
gallery support; IV. An educational background in art, and v. positive critical
reviews.
Mr. Gipe adds, "We are looking for works that have 'curb appeal', by this I mean we
want significant works by qualified artists, works having that 'wow factor' for the
many visitors we expect. We want our visitors to go away telling everyone how great
the experience was. By way of example, leading patrons Robert and Tia Cadow have
loaned with the intent to donate to MOCA the Boban sculpture "Icarus," which is
constructed our of stainless steel spoons. This stunning work stands over 5 feet
tall, weighs over 450 pounds, and stands out anywhere it is placed. This piece is
representative of the kind of works we are seeking. While MOCA doesn't yet have
funding for its permanent collection, recent tax changes have made donations by
artists more attractive financially, as they have always been for patrons. And the
artist will also benefit from the exposure and prestige of having a work in MOCA's
collection."
.About The Museum of Contemporary Art Hot Springs-MOCA is a 501(c)(3) corporation
intending to operate a museum in the Ozark Bath House. MOCA has received pledges
from four individuals in the amount of $130,000 contingent on successful lease
negotiations for the Ozark Bathhouse.

Web Site = http://www.art-exchange.com

Contact Details = Richard Gipe
Museum of Contemporary Art of Hot Springs
802-B Central Avenue
Hot Springs, AR 71901
501-624-1044X117