Memorializing Late Art Patron Agnes Gund: 'A Legendary, Iconic Figure'
Agnes Gund, a significant patron of the art world and a tireless advocate for social justice, passed away on Thursday in Manhattan at the age of 87. The news of her death was met with an outpouring of tributes from artists and cultural workers on social media.
Gund, known for her generous philanthropy, was instrumental in the 1990s-era expansion of the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), transforming it into a global center for contemporary art. Roxana Marcoci, chief curator of photography at MoMA, paid tribute to Gund, writing alongside a photograph of her at the opening of 'LaToya Ruby Frazier: Monuments of Solidarity'.
The Art for Justice Fund, a grant-based initiative dedicated to criminal justice reform, was established by Gund in 2017. She organized a $100 million donation to the fund by selling Roy Lichtenstein's Masterpiece (1962) at auction and using the proceeds. Gund collected many canon-bound artists, including Mark Rothko, Jasper Johns, and Brice Marden, and her belief and support for the arts and social justice throughout her life was instrumental.
Following Gund's death, artists and cultural workers paid tribute to her on social media. Lorna Simpson posted a tribute for Gund, describing her as an amazing person who held to the principles of diverse art and a just society. Glenn Ligon wrote a tribute beneath a portrait of him and Gund, stating that he would have done anything for her. Hoor Al Qasimi, president and director of the Sharjah Art Foundation, offered her condolences, stating that Gund's belief and support for the arts and social justice throughout her life was instrumental.
Isaac Julien replied to Ligon's post, expressing his loss and admiration for both individuals. David Weiner, interim president of Studio in the School, requested donations to be made to the organization in memory of Gund, stating that she was forever committed to Studio in the School. Anne Pasternak, director of the Brooklyn Museum, wrote a tribute saying, 'Rest in power, Aggie- you gave us a world more just, more beautiful, and infinitely more human.'
The cause of Gund's death was not provided by the New York Times in their report on Friday. Gund's impact on the art world will be felt for years to come, and her legacy as a champion of the arts and social justice will continue to inspire future generations.
