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Erin Dunigan
Digital Publications Community Manager at J. Paul Getty Trust
Professional Background
Erin Dunigan is an esteemed arts administration leader with a robust career that spans over a decade in various creative sectors, including publishing, contemporary art, and event production. Her commitment to visual culture has positioned her as a pivotal figure in making the art world more approachable and accessible, particularly through education and public programming that emphasizes equity and inclusion. Dunigan has consistently worked to ensure that artistic expression is accessible to all, breaking down barriers frequently encountered within the creative industries.
As the co-founder and producer of the San Francisco Art Book Fair (SFABF), established in 2016, Erin played a crucial role in creating an annual event that celebrates the unique art publishing community in the Bay Area. The fair showcases over 100 independent publishers, antiquarian dealers, artists, and collectors, attracting more than 12,000 visitors each year. This initiative not only fosters connections within the local arts community but also provides a significant platform for both national and international publishers to display their work, leading to an enriched dialogue around contemporary art publishing. For more information about the fair, you can visit SF Art Book Fair.
In addition to her work with SFABF, Erin has also been a Steering Committee Member for Artadia's Northern California Chapter from 2016 to 2019. During her tenure, she helped orchestrate numerous successful events while increasing chapter membership among young arts professionals in the vibrant Bay Area.
Dunigan's contributions to the art community have included noteworthy collaborations and initiatives, such as organizing the highly attended panel titled “Future of Art Book Publishing” at the New York Public Library in February 2013. This event, which featured distinguished figures in the art book publishing sector, culminated in her publishing a follow-up article in Art Documentation through the University of Chicago Press. As an active speaker on several panels and webinars in 2013 and 2014, she shared her insights on art book publishing and the art library system, underscoring her influence and expertise in the field.
Education and Achievements
Erin's educational background laid a strong foundation for her extensive career in the arts. She graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Arts degree, focusing on Art History & Cultural Studies, from the prestigious McGill University. Her academic journey also included intensive studies in contemporary art at the renowned Sotheby's Institute of Art in London, as well as attending Bard College, where she further developed her understanding of art history.
Dunigan’s professional journey encompasses a wealth of roles that reflect her diverse skills and dedication to the arts community. As the Digital Publications Community Manager at the J. Paul Getty Trust, Erin has been instrumental in shaping digital engagement strategies within the art sector. Prior to this role, she served as the Director of Public Programming & Engagement at Minnesota Street Project and as Program Manager, where she successfully executed various initiatives that enhanced community involvement in the arts.
Her experience as Associate Sales Manager for Special Markets and Independent Specialty at Chronicle Books honed her skills in both sales and marketing, while her role at ARTBOOK – D.A.P. as a Sales & Marketing Associate allowed her to deepen her understanding of the intricacies involved in art publications.
Throughout her dynamic career, she has also contributed her talents as a Communications Volunteer at The CCA Wattis Institute for Contemporary Art, a Freelance Associate at Blue Medium Inc., and has served as a Reception/Registrar at Nicole Klagsbrun Gallery. In addition, Erin gained valuable experience through her internships at both Blue Medium Inc. and Creative Time, which helped shape her professional ethos and approach to arts administration.
Notable Achievements
- Co-founder of San Francisco Art Book Fair (SFABF): This annual fair has become a cornerstone event for the Bay Area's art community, promoting independent art publishing and attracting a diverse audience.
- Steering Committee Member, Artadia: Played a key role in the development of the Northern California Chapter, focusing on membership growth and event organization.
- Panel Organizer and Speaker: Successfully organized and led discussions on the challenges and future of art book publishing, contributing significantly to industry discourse.
- Published Writer: Authored a follow-up article on art book publishing, showcasing her ability to contribute scholarly written work to the art community.
Overall, Erin Dunigan's career reflects a profound commitment to the arts, driven by her passion for accessibility and education within the visual culture realm. Her innovative practices and strategic initiatives have not only influenced the way art is published and shared but have also nurtured a thriving community of artists, publishers, and art enthusiasts. Erin continues to be an advocate for the arts, using her expertise to bridge gaps and create lasting impact within the creative sectors.