Portland, Ore. - The Portland Center for the Advancement of Culture moves into 2004 with a new lineup of events and fundraisers, an updated mission statement, and a new name for the organization: The Modern Zoo.

“Our goal is to support artists from all over the Northwest and The Modern Zoo moniker is less centered on Portland than our previous name,” says founder Bryan Suereth. “The new name generates excitement and indicates our willingness to show challenging contemporary work in a focused and permanent environment."

The Modern Zoo has postponed its 2004 juried showcase, previously slated to open next summer, until it finds a permanent space to house its art center.

“We’re actively searching for the perfect space to plant the art center and begin programming,” says founder Gavin Shettler. “Then we can continue operating under our main goal of offering the regional community a space to show work outside the gallery system."

While searching for a permanent location for the art center in 2004, The Modern Zoo will host various fundraisers and events that support its mission of providing neutral exhibition space for Northwest artists, including a second showing of “Downside UP” at the Guild Theater on January 21, and participation in Reed College’s Reed Arts Week (RAW) on March 3-7.

To be apprised of events and fundraisers happening in 2004, visit The Modern Zoo online at www.portlandart.org or call 503-236-5200.

About The Modern Zoo:
The Modern Zoo is a nonprofit art organization based in Portland Oregon dedicated to providing a neutral forum and exhibition space for artists based in Oregon and the Northwest. Its mission is to establish and maintain a cultural, educational and interdisciplinary arts center that promotes and exposes art and artists regionally, nationally and internationally.

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For more information, contact Melissa Logan at 503-317-8498 or melissa@portlandart.org.