YBCA CEO resigns after pro-Palestine protest and boycott
Sara Fenske Bahat has stepped down from her role as interim CEO of the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts (YBCA) in San Francisco following a pro-Palestinian demonstration during the Bay Area Now 9 exhibition in mid-February. During the protest, eight artists altered their works, with one painting 'Free Palestine' on Bahat's sculptures. Activists urged YBCA to support the Palestinian campaign opposing Israeli art censorship and called for the removal of certain board members. The YBCA board rejected these claims on February 21. Following public outcry, Bahat's resignation was confirmed on March 6, leading to the exhibition's temporary closure.
Key facts
- Sara Fenske Bahat resigned as interim CEO of YBCA.
- Protest occurred in mid-February during Bay Area Now 9 exhibition.
- Eight artists modified works with pro-Palestine messages.
- One artist spray-painted 'Free Palestine' over her sculptures.
- Protesters demanded PACBI commitment and removal of Zionist board members.
- YBCA board called demands 'false accusations' on February 21.
- Staff open letter accused censorship, gathered hundreds of signatories.
- Board accepted resignation and closed exhibition on March 6.
Entities
Artists
- Sara Fenske Bahat
Institutions
- Yerba Buena Center for the Arts
- Palestinian Campaign for the Academic and Cultural Boycott of Israel
Locations
- San Francisco
- United States