What's Happening?
The Gochman Family Collection, a prominent collection of Indigenous and American art, has appointed Laura Phipps, a former associate curator at the Whitney Museum of American Art, as its new director. Phipps will work alongside Tlingít co-curator and creative
director Rachel Martin to expand the collection's public programming and open a new exhibition venue in Katonah, New York, this autumn. Founded in 2021 by Becky Gochman and Zach Feuer, the collection has rapidly grown to include over 750 works, primarily by Indigenous artists, and has loaned more than 260 pieces to over 100 exhibitions worldwide. The appointment of Phipps, who has extensive experience with Native art, raises questions about the representation of Native curators in major collections.
Why It's Important?
The appointment of Laura Phipps is significant as it highlights ongoing discussions about representation and leadership in the art world, particularly concerning Indigenous art. While Phipps brings valuable experience and connections to Native artists, the decision not to appoint a Native curator has sparked debate. The new exhibition space in Katonah aims to provide a platform for emerging artists and increase public engagement with Indigenous art. This development could influence how Indigenous art is curated and presented, potentially leading to more inclusive practices in the art industry.
What's Next?
The Gochman Family Collection's new exhibition space in Katonah is set to open this autumn, offering a unique platform for artists near New York City. This venue will be accessible by public transit, encouraging broader public engagement. As the collection expands its public programming, it may set a precedent for other art institutions to follow, potentially leading to increased visibility and opportunities for Indigenous artists. The art community will be watching closely to see how the collection navigates these changes and whether it can effectively support and amplify underrepresented voices.
