Uploaded May 2022 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago
On March 28, 2022, MOCA launched "Sonic Boom" by artist Derek Fordjour on the exterior of the MOCA Grand Avenue building. This work marks the start of Building Art, a series of outdoor artworks created for the facade of the museum, featuring work by leading contemporary artists.
Artist Derek Fordjour worked with MOCA to develop his concept for the artwork, engaging with museum staff to select the featured work. Measuring more than 5,400 square feet, Sonic Boom features drum majors and majorettes in syncopated arrangements. Based on one of the artist’s most iconic series of paintings, these figures honor the Historically Black College and University (HBCU) marching band experience and symbolize the daily performance of Blackness itself. Sonic Boom takes its title from the Jackson State University marching band, known as the “Sonic Boom of the South.”
Mindful of climate impact and in keeping with the sustainability mission of MOCA’s Environmental Council, which was formed in October of 2020, the materials of the work will be removed and reused by the artist in future projects with MOCA’s support.
This project by Derek Fordjour is generously supported by an anonymous donor.
On March 28, 2022, MOCA launched "Sonic Boom" by artist Derek Fordjour on the exterior of the MOCA Grand Avenue building. This work marks the start of Building Art, a series of outdoor artworks created for the facade of the museum, featuring work by leading contemporary artists.
Artist Derek Fordjour worked with MOCA to develop his concept for the artwork, engaging with museum staff to select the featured work. Measuring more than 5,400 square feet, Sonic Boom features drum majors and majorettes in syncopated arrangements. Based on one of the artist’s most iconic series of paintings, these figures honor the Historically Black College and University (HBCU) marching band experience and symbolize the daily performance of Blackness itself. Sonic Boom takes its title from the Jackson State University marching band, known as the “Sonic Boom of the South.”
Mindful of climate impact and in keeping with the sustainability mission of MOCA’s Environmental Council, which was formed in October of 2020, the materials of the work will be removed and reused by the artist in future projects with MOCA’s support.
This project by Derek Fordjour is generously supported by an anonymous donor.
