The Museum of Contemporary Photography (MoCP) at Columbia College Chicago celebrated its 50th anniversary with the DARKROOM 2026 benefit auction on Feb. 26, raising nearly $445,000 to support exhibitions, acquisitions, and student-centered programming.
The event marked a significant milestone for MoCP, which has served as Columbia’s academic art museum for five decades. The celebration brought together artists, collectors, alumni, and supporters in an immersive gallery space at the college’s Student Center. Guests participated in installations and photo experiences while bidding on artworks and experiences by notable artists such as Regina Agu, Alia Ali, Dawoud Bey, Vera Lutter, Uta Barth, and Joel Sternfeld.
Executive director Natasha Egan addressed attendees during the event. “This is our most important fundraiser of the year,” Egan said. “Everything we do—from mounting exhibitions to building the collection to teaching students and producing public programs—is sustained by the people in this room.” She also highlighted MoCP’s role as a place where “artists, students, and audiences come together to think critically about images and the world around us.”
Joel Sternfeld was honored with the Silver Camera Award for his contributions to color photography and documentary work exploring the American landscape. Egan recognized founding board member David C. Ruttenberg and longtime staff members for their roles in shaping MoCP’s legacy.
Board of Trustees chair Bob Wislow spoke about MoCP’s influence over five decades: “For five decades, the MoCP has shaped how we see—nurturing artists and building one of the most significant contemporary art collections in the world,” he said. “Its strength has always been rooted in its partnership with Columbia College Chicago.”
Columbia President Shantay Bolton described MoCP as “part of our creative DNA,” encouraging supporters to “invent boldly and unapologetically what the next 50 years will look like.” The evening was organized with support from co-chairs and committee members who demonstrated strong community engagement.
As MoCP enters its next chapter following this record-breaking event, it continues its mission of connecting artists, students, and audiences through photography.
