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Viktorya Vilk
Chief of Staff at PEN America
Professional Background
Viktorya Vilk is a highly accomplished professional with a multifaceted career in arts administration, education, and research. Currently, she serves as the Chief of Staff at Pen America, a prominent organization that champions free expressions through literature and the arts. In this significant role, Viktorya brings her exceptional organizational skills and strategic vision to facilitate the mission of promoting freedom of expression, particularly in the literary field. Her leadership is instrumental in navigating the complexities of arts advocacy and education during a time when creative freedoms are under increasing scrutiny.
Prior to her current position, Viktorya served as the Interim Special Assistant to the Director of Pen America. This role involved direct collaboration with top leadership to drive key initiatives that support writers and protect free expression. Viktorya’s journey at Pen America began with her role as a Research Intern, where her commitment to arts advocacy became evident early on. Her trajectory within the organization speaks to her dedication and adaptability in the ever-evolving landscape of arts rights and literary advocacy.
Viktorya's expertise extends beyond her current organization. She has a diverse background that spans international arts consultancy and education. As a Research Consultant at the International Arts Rights Advisors, she provided valuable insights into the intersection of arts and law on a global scale. Furthermore, she has enriched her professional experience by serving as a Freelance Educator at The Frick Collection, imparting her knowledge and passion for art history to a wider audience.
Education and Achievements
Viktorya’s educational foundation is deeply rooted in the arts and humanities, making her exceptionally qualified for her roles in art and cultural organizations. She holds two Master’s Degrees from the renowned Courtauld Institute of Art at the University of London—one in Art and the other in Art History. This rigorous academic background has equipped her with critical analytical skills and a profound understanding of visual culture. Her studies at Courtauld, known for producing leading experts in the art world, set the stage for her influential career in arts advocacy and education.
Before her time in the UK, Viktorya earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Studio Art, Art History, and French Literature from Boston University. This interdisciplinary approach not only broadened her artistic view but also honed her language skills, which are beneficial in her interactions with a global arts community.
Achievements
Throughout her professional journey, Viktorya Vilk has achieved numerous accolades and milestones that contribute to her impressive repertoire. Among her previous engagements, she worked as a Global Health Corps Fellow focusing on Organizational Strategy and Development at the Art and Global Health Center Africa, where she contributed to enhancing the role of arts in addressing global health challenges.
Additionally, her role as Assistant Manager of Gallery Programs at the Jewish Museum enabled her to develop and manage dynamic exhibition programs that engage diverse audiences. Viktorya also excelled in her position as Project Manager of Collections Interpretation at the Sterling and Francine Clark Art Institute, where she played a vital role in making art collections accessible and relatable to the public.
As a Samuel H. Kress Fellow in Museum Teaching at The Frick Collection, Viktorya was recognized for her innovative approaches to art education, providing visitors with enriching experiences that foster appreciation for the arts. She has also contributed her curatorial expertise as an Assistant at the Courtauld Institute of Art, thereby aligning her academic background with practical museum practices.
Further enriching her career, Viktorya held the position of Graduate Research Intern at the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston, where she undertook in-depth research that supported various exhibitions and educational programs. Her experience as Assistant Cataloger at the Nichols House Museum allowed her to immerse herself in the preservation and interpretation of historical artifacts, underscoring her commitment to cultural heritage.
Viktorya Vilk’s career is characterized by dynamic roles that underscore her dedication to the arts and education. Her extensive experience in strategy, development, and programming has positioned her as a thought leader in the arts community. With such a multifaceted background, she is not only an advocate for the rights of artists but also an educator who inspires future generations to engage with and understand the importance of the arts.
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