MoCP Auction Achieves Record Funds, Theaster Gates Exhibits in Paris, and Cultural Updates Across Chicago

On March 10, 2026, the Museum of Contemporary Photography (MoCP) held its Darkroom benefit auction, raising approximately $445,000 through sales of artworks and experiences by artists including Regina Agu, Alia Ali, Dawoud Bey, Vera Lutter, Uta Barth, and Joel Sternfeld, who received the 2026 Silver Camera Award. In Paris, Theaster Gates presents 'And Other Paintings' at White Cube Gallery until April 4, featuring tar paintings that explore industrial materials and abstraction. The Driehaus Museum announced spring performances for 'Brendan Fernandes: In the Round,' with new dance works in April and May, curated by Stephanie Cristello. The Obama Presidential Center will open in Jackson Park on June 19, following a dedication ceremony on June 18, with community celebrations planned. Chicago's Missing Middle Housing Initiative involves constructing five two-flat buildings on West 34th Place to address affordability. Steppenwolf Theatre revealed casting for Tarell Alvin McCraney's 'Windfall,' running from April 9 to May 31, featuring ensemble members Alana Arenas, Glenn Davis, Jon Michael Hill, and Namir Smallwood. Bon Iver's Eaux Claires Festival returns on July 24-25 in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, after an eight-year hiatus, with artists like Dijon and Aimee Mann. The Metropolitan Opera faces financial challenges, seeking funds from sources including Saudi Arabia and Elon Musk, while the National Symphony Orchestra's executive director, Jean Davidson, resigned amid turmoil at the Kennedy Center. Other news includes allegations against chef René Redzepi of past abuse at Noma, Thomas Keller's criticism of an affordable housing project in Yountville, and incidents such as a threat against Ballet Folklorico students in Avondale. Cultural advocacy calls for increased arts funding, noting its economic impact, and reports detail AI's role in canceling National Endowment for the Humanities grants under the Trump administration.