A MESSAGE FROM THE DIRECTOR AND CEO

Dear Colleagues:

It is with pride, but yet regret, that I announce that after three years, Elizabeth Smith, Executive Director, Curatorial Affairs, will be leaving the AGO for an exciting new opportunity.  Elizabeth has been chosen the Helen Frankenthaler Foundation’s first Executive Director, and will be moving to New York City this fall.

As you may know, much of Elizabeth’s work as a curator and scholar has centered on artists of the mid to late 20th century.  Heading a foundation devoted to advancing the work of Helen Frankenthaler, who was one of the leading artists of her generation and active as a painter, sculptor, and printmaker until her death in 2011, will utilize all of Elizabeth’s experience and expertise.

During her time at the AGO, Elizabeth brought sustained professional leadership, made important hires, developed systematic collection reviews, guided conservation’s efforts to have a stronger presence in our galleries and confirmed and planned important exhibitions such as Abstract Expressionist New York: Masterpieces from The Museum of Modern Art; Yael Bartana…And Europe Will Be Stunned, and Ai Weiwei: According to What?

Elizabeth has been a key leader in the development and implementation of our Strategic Plan priorities and has taken great pride in fostering the generation and presentation of shows that meet the AGO’s artistic goals. For example, she has worked with her colleagues to bring the best of the contemporary art world to our city (e.g. Ai Weiwei), increase the profile of our own collection through exhibitions created by AGO curators (e.g. Light My Fire) and has raised the profile of Toronto artists from Kathleen Munn to Kim Adams to Scott McFarland.  Well respected in the arts community, she always represented the Gallery internationally with great distinction.

As Executive Director, Elizabeth will be building the Foundation from the ground up.  Established during Frankenthaler’s lifetime, it will join the ranks of other artist-endowed foundations which are increasingly shaping cultural philanthropy and seeking to increase the visibility and accessibility of artists’ work and archives.

Elizabeth’s last day at the Gallery will be Tuesday July 23.

Upon Elizabeth’s departure and while a search is underway, Elizabeth’s current direct reports will report to me.  I will have support from Christy Thompson, Associate Director, Administration & Corporate Secretary.

Please join me in congratulating Elizabeth on this tremendous opportunity and wish her well in this exciting new chapter in her professional life.  A farewell celebration will be scheduled shortly, please stay tuned for details.

Please share with colleagues who are not on email.

Sincerely,

 

Matthew