By Shelby Rowe Moyer |Photo courtesy of MMOCA
“FULL CIRCLE” AT MADISON MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART
Through March 21
With the recent retirement of the director emeritus, Stephen Fleischman, MMoCA is reflecting on its last 30 years under his helm. His legacy is visible throughout the museum’s permanent collection with additions of contemporary photography, Chicago Imagism and works from Midwest artists. Through March 21 revisit a popular exhibition called “Mask” that was originally on view at MMoCA in 2008 — and you may have already seen this colorful addition from afar. Colorful ribbons hang the entire length of the building’s iconic glass triangle at the corner of Henry and State streets. “Mask” is back as part of the museum’s “Full Circle” exhibition dedicated in honor of Fleischman. mmoca.org/exhibitions
THE VERONA QUARTET
Jan. 29
Having performed all over the world, this highly sought-after quartet has risen to fame for its immersive and spellbinding take on contemporary music — which has earned the group accolades from publications such as The New York Times. Despite what the name might imply, the group doesn’t have a connection to the area. The name Verona actually pays homage to William Shakespeare. Like the prolific playwright, the Quartet “believes that the essence of storytelling transcends genre.” This virtual event is one you won’t want to miss. union.wisc.edu/events
NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC LIVE: LIFE ON OTHER WORLDS
Jan. 19 & 20
Sometime this year, a NASA rover will be navigating the terrain of Mars in search of evidence of ancient life. Meanwhile, scientists are pondering whether one of Jupiter’s moons, Europa — which has a vast subsurface ocean — could offer clues of primitive life forms. During this ticketed National Geographic virtual event hosted by Overture, planetary scientist and astrobiologist Kevin Peter Hand and NASA engineer Kobie Boykins will present updates on this enthralling research. overture.org/events
GREATER MADISON MUSIC CITY KICK-OFF EVENT
Jan. 19
Ongoing conversations about diversifying Madison’s music scene and offering equitable platforms for BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) artists are coming to fruition during this virtual afternoon event with performances by local musicians, organized by Greater Madison Music City. “We began this work due to discrimination creating unequal access to stages for hip-hop artists and other artists of color,” says Greater Madison Music City lead Karen Reece. “Racial equity will remain the focus of this work and our success will require broad community involvement with partners from music, government and private business sectors.” greatermadisonmusiccity.com