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Raffi Lehrer
Founder at Public Art Company
Professional Background
Raffi Lehrer is an accomplished art director, curator, and producer whose career has seamlessly blended the realms of contemporary art and event production. Situated at the intersection of these two vibrant fields, Raffi has dedicated his professional life to elevating visual arts and creating atmospheres that engage, educate, and inspire new audiences. He has earned a stellar reputation within the cultural landscape, particularly through his impactful contributions to some of the most recognized events in the industry, such as Coachella, Stagecoach, Desert Trip, and Art Basel.
With a solid decade of experience, Raffi's career is marked by his dynamic role in orchestrating large-scale installations and cultural programming. He has collaborated with an impressive lineup of artists and designers, including acclaimed names like Francis Kéré, Phillip K. Smith III, and Edoardo Tresoldi. Raffi has also partnered with prestigious institutions such as The Rose Bowl, the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, and the Huntington Library, leaving a unique imprint on every project he undertakes. His work exemplifies a commitment to artistic innovation and a passion for enhancing the human experience through art, connecting communities in unique and meaningful ways.
Raffi thrives in high-pressure environments, where he is not only knowledgeable about the intricacies of art direction and curation, but also skilled at managing events with thousands of attendees. His capability to navigate the challenges associated with large-scale productions—including quick turnaround times and considerable budgets, often reaching seven figures—speaks volumes about his professional acumen. For Raffi, every project is an opportunity to create something extraordinary, and he approaches each endeavor with creativity and strategic thought.
Education and Achievements
Raffi's academic journey laid a strong foundation for his future career in art and culture. He graduated with honors from the University of California at Santa Barbara, where he earned dual Bachelor of Arts degrees in Studio Art and Cultural Anthropology. This interdisciplinary education provided him with a deep understanding of artistic practices and cultural contexts, enabling him to connect relevant narratives to the audience in his work. The rich experiences and knowledge gained during his studies have influenced his professional approach, encouraging a holistic view of art in society.
His passion for art is further demonstrated by his various roles throughout his career. As an Art Curator at Goldenvoice, he has played a crucial part in navigating the relationship between music and visual arts, curating immersive installations that complement some of the biggest music festivals in the world. Formerly, he served as the Founder of the Public Art Company, where he had the opportunity to lead projects that brought public art to life. His role as an Art Director at artMRKT and an Associate Art Director at Goldenvoice showcases his versatility and expertise in managing various aspects of art production, while his position as Head of Production at The Haas Brothers reflects his operational savvy and ability to deliver exceptional creative visions on a grand scale.
Personal Interests
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Raffi Lehrer embodies a genuine enthusiasm for life and the arts. He expresses a unique vision of what it means to cultivate community through art, always ready to engage in meaningful dialogue about cultural expressions. He often shares engaging conversations and works collaboratively with friends and past collaborators to explore innovative ideas that shape the future of public art.
Living between Brooklyn, NY, and Los Angeles, CA, Raffi enjoys blending the energetic vibes of both cities into his personal and professional projects. An interesting personal quirk is his weekly routine of rearranging his living space—art, furniture, and plants alike—as he continuously seeks the ideal feng shui. This not only reflects his dedication to aesthetics but also demonstrates his intrinsic belief in the importance of environment and atmosphere. A space that breathes creativity can, after all, inspire remarkable ideas and artistic innovations, influencing not only his home life but also how he approaches larger projects.
Raffi remains committed to shaping the landscape of public art while fostering connections within the community through visual storytelling. His vision is always forward-thinking, as he hopes for a future where gathering people becomes a valued skill once again and art serves as a bridge for true connection and understanding.
Future Aspirations
Looking ahead, Raffi is excited about several personal projects he's currently nurturing while also taking on consulting roles in public art. His passion for art, combined with his extensive experience in event production, positions him as a valuable asset to any artistic initiative. Raffi embraces the challenges and opportunities of the evolving art world and aims to push the boundaries of how art is experienced in public spaces. He is dedicated to fostering collaboration among artists, cities, and institutions to create impactful cultural experiences that resonate with diverse audiences and enrich the urban environment.
In summary, Raffi Lehrer's extensive background in art direction, curation, and production reflects a passion for visual arts and community engagement. With a robust educational foundation and an impressive portfolio of collaborations, Raffi continues to influence the art world while fostering connections and experiences that bridge the gap between art and community.
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Raffi Lehrer: Art Director, Curator, and Producer
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