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Mindy Ross
Owner at Art Strategies LLC
Professional Background
Mindy Ross is an accomplished art consultant and curator with nearly two decades of experience in the field of public art and exhibition management. A graduate of the prestigious University of Southern California, Ms. Ross launched her career in the art industry as the Director of Eckert Fine Art in Florida from 2000 to 2003. During her tenure at Eckert Fine Art, she curated significant exhibitions featuring renowned artists including the iconic Robert Rauschenberg, collaborative duo Christo & Jeanne-Claude, and the influential Julian Stanczak. Her expertise in curating exhibitions has set a high standard in the fine arts landscape, crafting engaging experiences that resonate with diverse audiences.
Since 2003, Ms. Ross has been the proud owner of Art Strategies LLC, a fine art consulting agency dedicated to bridging the gap between the public and private sectors of the art world. Her company has become synonymous with innovative and thoughtful art solutions, emphasizing a portfolio that strikes a balance between her passions for international art and her commitment to enhancing her local community through artistic engagement.
In 2005, Ms. Ross took a pivotal role in the founding of Public Art Indianapolis for the Arts Council of Indianapolis. Here, she has championed local artists through idea competitions and brought to life various large-scale public exhibitions, which include highly acclaimed works such as Tom Otterness in Indianapolis, Julian Opie's signs, and Chakaia Booker's impactful Mass Transit installation. Her dedication to public art has not gone unnoticed, as she has played an essential role in enriching the cultural fabric of Indianapolis.
From 2005 to 2012, Ms. Ross served as Curator and Public Art Project Manager for the Indianapolis Cultural Trail: A Legacy of Gene & Marilyn Glick, a transformative eight-mile pedestrian and bike pathway. In this capacity, she worked alongside eminent artists like Vito Acconci, Fred Wilson, and the artist collective M12 to infuse the Trail with public art that enhances the experience of the space itself. The culmination of her efforts was celebrated in 2013 during the grand public event, Get Down On It, marking the completion of the Cultural Trail with a vibrant array of 81 artistic, educational, and interactive programs.
Mindy Ross's contributions extend beyond public art initiatives. She has curated significant projects for Cummins Inc., including the Indianapolis Distribution HQ designed by Deborah Berke Partners, as well as notable projects in Beijing for Cummins China HQ and its world headquarters. She is currently curating The Public Collection, an inspiring project initiated by philanthropist Rachel M. Simon, which commissions artists to create community-oriented book share stations in Indianapolis.
Education and Achievements
Mindy Ross graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Art History from the University of Southern California. This educational foundation laid the groundwork for her successful career in curatorial practice and art consultancy. Her academic background has equipped her with a profound understanding of art movements, historical contexts, and the nuances of curatorial practices, which she applies daily to her projects.
Over the years, Ms. Ross has received numerous accolades for her contributions to public art and community engagement. Her innovative approach to art curation and her ability to connect artists with the community have made her a sought-after expert in her field. Her work is frequently recognized within the arts community, and she continues to inspire future generations of artists and art enthusiasts alike.
Achievements
- Director of Eckert Fine Art (2000-2003): Curated exhibitions featuring prominent artists such as Robert Rauschenberg, Christo & Jeanne-Claude, and Julian Stanczak, enhancing the gallery's reputation for showcasing high-caliber exhibitions.
- Owner of Art Strategies LLC (2003-Present): Founded a successful fine art consulting agency serving a diverse clientele across public and private sectors, establishing a strong portfolio of sustainable art projects.
- Founding Director of Public Art Indianapolis (2005-Present): Spearheaded initiatives to foster local talent and enhance the public art scene in Indianapolis, contributing significantly to the city's cultural landscape.
- Curator for the Indianapolis Cultural Trail (2005-2012): Managed public art projects along an eight-mile pedestrian and bike pathway, collaborating with notable artists and culminating in community celebrations like Get Down On It.
- Curatorial work for Cummins Inc.: Oversaw significant art projects for the corporate headquarters, demonstrating the integration of art within corporate environments and community spaces.
- Curator for The Public Collection: Continues to innovate with community-centered art projects, fostering a spirit of sharing and accessibility within the arts in Indianapolis.
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