December 2008
Alanna Heiss, the founding director of P.S.1 Contemporary Art Center, who over the course of the last 37 years oversaw the transformation of a turn-of-the-century public school building in Long Island City, Queens, into a space that reflected the originality and independence of hundreds of artists, will retire from P.S.1 on 31 December 2008.
An internationally recognized champion of contemporary artists for more than three decades, Ms. Heiss is also hailed as a visionary curator of adventurous exhibitions - more than 800 during her tenure and as an arts leader whose support has nurtured the careers of young artists and curators around the world.
“P.S.1 was founded with a particular mission, which was to allow for the discovery of many different points of view under one roof,” said Ms. Heiss. “Its special gift to those who appreciate art is its ability to mobilize artists both young and old, known and unknown, to explore their dreams and visions. The experiences I’ve had working with great curators and artists have been a tremendous honor.”
Glenn D. Lowry, Director of The Museum of Modern Art, which became affiliated with P.S.1 in 2000, said: “Alanna Heiss is a creative and visionary leader whose efforts brought the originality of contemporary artists to a worldwide public and built a landmark center for the visual and performance arts. Literally hundreds of artists from around the world have felt the impact of her tireless efforts over the last 37 years, and that impact will continue to resonate with artists for years to come.”
Following her retirement from P.S.1, Heiss will launch Art International Radio (AIR), an organization that will be devoted to artistic, musical, performance, and experimental programs, in early 2009.
Taking its lead from Heiss’s brainchild Art Radio WPS1.org, Art International Radio will bolster a tradition of bringing thought-provoking conversations with noteworthy artists, curators, and academics to a listening audience.
A search committee will be established in early 2009 to lead the search for the next director of P.S.1.
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