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Stacy Stark
Executive Director, Foundation for Contemporary Arts
Professional Background
Stacy Tenenbaum Stark has been an influential figure in the art world since serving as Executive Director of the Foundation for Contemporary Arts (FCA) in 2005. Under her leadership, FCA, a prestigious grant-making organization founded in 1963 by luminaries Jasper Johns and John Cage, has seen significant growth in both its profile and its grant-making capabilities. The organization's mission is rooted in supporting by-artists, for-artists initiatives that are dedicated to promoting innovative and challenging works across various artistic disciplines, including dance, visual arts, performance art, poetry, and music/sound.
During her tenure, Ms. Stark has successfully expanded FCA's endowment from $7 million to an impressive $30 million, which has significantly increased the foundation's ability to support artists and their groundbreaking projects. Her strategic vision and commitment to fostering artistry have made FCA a key player in the contemporary art scene, reflecting her deep understanding of the artistic landscape and the needs of its practitioners. Ms. Stark’s contribution to the foundation not only underscores her leadership skills but also highlights her dedication to the arts community as a whole.
Prior to her impactful career at FCA, Ms. Stark spent fifteen years in the cosmetics industry, holding executive positions at prestigious companies including Estée Lauder, L’Oréal, and LVMH. This diverse experience in the corporate sector, paired with her artistic insights, has equipped her with a unique perspective and skill set that has translated effectively into her current role.
Education and Achievements
Stacy Stark's academic background is as impressive as her professional journey. She pursued her Bachelor of Arts in History of Art at the renowned University of Pennsylvania, followed by a Master's Degree in Art History from The Courtauld Institute of Art in London. Her academic prowess is evident in her MA thesis, titled "The Triumph of ‘The New American Painting’: MoMA and Cold War Cultural Diplomacy," which garnered recognition and was published in the scholarly work, Artists and Patrons in Post-War Britain (Ashgate: London 2001). This significant research not only reflects her analytical acumen but also emphasizes her deep engagement with art history and its broader implications.
In addition to her thesis, Ms. Stark played a crucial role in overseeing the research, editing, and publication of Artists for Artists: Fifty Years of the Foundation for Contemporary Arts (New York 2013). This scholarly book highlights the rich history of FCA and its impact on the contemporary arts scene, further solidifying Ms. Stark's position as an expert in the field of art history and philanthropy.
Notable Contributions and Activities
Beyond her formal roles, Ms. Stark has engaged with the art community in various meaningful ways. She was one of the original members of the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) Junior Associates and actively participated on its steering committee for several years, contributing to the cultivation of future leaders in the art world. Alongside her professional responsibilities, she has also lectured on a diverse range of topics at prestigious institutions, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art and MoMA, sharing her knowledge and insights with art enthusiasts and aspiring professionals.
During the 1990s, she successfully maintained an art consulting business that focused on guiding young collectors and emerging artists. This venture allowed her to merge her passion for art with her business acumen, further exemplifying her multifaceted expertise in both the artistic and commercial realms.
In her role as Executive Director at the Foundation for Contemporary Arts, Ms. Stark continues to champion the cause of artists, elevate their voices, and ensure that their innovative works receive the support they need to thrive. Her remarkable journey, marked by significant achievements in both the corporate and nonprofit sectors, showcases her commitment to advancing the arts and supporting creative expression across various disciplines.
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