Stefan Kalmar Critiques New York Museums and Defends Alternative Spaces in 2014 Interview
In a November 2014 discussion, Stefan Kalmar, who leads Artists Space, expressed his discontent with the museum scene in New York, labeling it as "desperate and unimaginative." He argued that the programming is tailored more for affluent donors than for the general public. To address this, he co-established Common Practice, a coalition of New York non-profits aimed at fostering artist-focused initiatives and programmatic integrity. Kalmar highlighted commendable institutions such as the Dia Art Foundation, the new venue at the Metropolitan Museum, and MoMA's exhibitions featuring artists like Lygia Clark, Sigmar Polke, and Christopher Williams. He also commended the Bronx Museum for its free entry and the Elizabeth A. Sackler Center for Feminist Art. Notably, Artists Space became the first U.S. organization recognized by W.A.G.E., pledging $3,500 for solo exhibitions. Kalmar contrasted public funding in Europe with the private backing prevalent in the U.S.
Key facts
- Stefan Kalmar described New York museums as "desperate and unimaginative" in a 2014 interview.
- Kalmar co-founded Common Practice, a coalition of New York not-for-profits including Artists Space, White Columns, and the Kitchen.
- Artists Space became the first W.A.G.E.-certified organization in the U.S., paying artists $3,500 for solo exhibitions.
- Kalmar criticized museums for acting like "an exclusive concierge or escort service" for donors.
- He cited positive examples like the Dia Art Foundation, the Bronx Museum's free admission, and specific MoMA exhibitions.
- Kalmar contrasted the publicly funded Kunstverein Munich model with Artists Space's private funding structure.
- Artists Space raised funds through art fairs via the 40 Years Artists Space Program Fund, supported by over 40 artists.
- Kalmar emphasized Artists Space's programmatic approach over single exhibitions, citing projects on Charlotte Posenenske and Christopher D'Arcangelo.
Entities
Artists
- Stefan Kalmar
- Danh Vō
- Sam Pulitzer
- Marc Camille Chaimowicz
- Hilary Lloyd
- Duncan Campbell
- Lygia Clark
- Sigmar Polke
- Christopher Williams
- Charlotte Posenenske
- Christopher D'Arcangelo
Institutions
- Artists Space
- Common Practice
- White Columns
- the Kitchen
- Triple Canopy
- Light Industry
- Participant Inc.
- Printed Matter
- W.A.G.E. (Working Artists and the Greater Economy)
- Dia Art Foundation
- Metropolitan Museum
- Whitney Museum
- MoMA (Museum of Modern Art)
- Bronx Museum
- Brooklyn Museum
- Elizabeth A. Sackler Center for Feminist Art
- Real Fine Arts
- 47 Canal
- Essex Street Gallery
- David Lewis
- Callicoon
- Kunstverein Munich
Locations
- New York
- United States
- Munich
- Germany
- Puerto Rico