Resignations Shake AGO Following Nan Goldin Acquisition Failure
The Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) is currently navigating a significant shift following the resignations of a senior curator and two volunteers from its collections committee. This turmoil arose after the committee’s narrow decision not to acquire a video work by celebrated artist Nan Goldin, amid accusations labeling her views as antisemitic.
Background of the Controversy
Nan Goldin, known for her impactful photography and activism, ignited controversy during a speech in late 2024 at Berlin’s Neue Nationalgalerie. She expressed moral outrage regarding the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and Lebanon, criticizing Israel for the deaths resulting from its military actions since its conflict with Hamas began in October 2023. This conflict arose after a deadly attack by Hamas that resulted in 1,200 deaths in Israel and the hostage situation involving 251 individuals.
Decision Against Acquisition
In mid-2023, the AGO aimed to collaborate with the Vancouver Art Gallery and Minneapolis’s Walker Art Center to jointly acquire Goldin’s video work, titled “Stendhal Syndrome.” However, the AGO’s modern and contemporary curatorial committee voted 11-9 against the purchase, citing concerns about Goldin’s political comments. Internal communications revealed that some members considered her remarks offensive and antisemitic.
Those in favor of the acquisition argued it was a matter of artistic merit rather than the artist’s personal views. They stressed that denying the work based on Goldin’s remarks constituted censorship.
Resignations and Governance Review
As a direct consequence of this vote, John Zeppetelli, the AGO’s modern and contemporary curator who supported the acquisition, resigned from his full-time position. Two additional members of the collections committee also resigned, expressing discontent with the outcome relating to “Stendhal Syndrome.”
Stephan Jost, the AGO director and chief executive, communicated in a memo about the governance review initiated after the decision. He recommended a reset in discussions around acquisitions and a clarification of committee responsibilities to foster healthier debates.
Institutional Funding and Artistic Integrity
The AGO plays a significant role in North America’s art scene and received $26 million in public funding during its last fiscal year, primarily from Ontario. Notably, the gallery already houses three works by Goldin, demonstrating the institution’s existing commitment to her artistry.
Stendhal Syndrome does not engage with the contentious political themes from Goldin’s speech; instead, it contrasts her photographs of classical artworks with personal portraits. This juxtaposition aims to evoke emotional responses related to viewing compelling art.
Community Reactions
The reactions to the AGO’s recent decisions highlight concerns about how political views might influence acquisitions in art institutions. Advocacy leaders, like Zainub Verjee from Galeries Ontario, underscore that collections should not merely reflect comfortable narratives. Instead, they should engage with thought-provoking societal discussions.
Experts have cautioned that if institutions allow acquisitions to be swayed by political opinions, it could jeopardize their credibility and diminish trust from artists and the public.
Recent Curatorial Departures
This controversy follows a trend of recent curatorial departures at the AGO. In 2023, Wanda Nanibush, the Anishinaabe curator known for advocating reconciliation, left amid tensions regarding her support for Palestinian rights. Taqralik Partridge, previously serving as the associate curator of Indigenous art, also departed, mirroring similar themes of conflict within the institution regarding artistic expression and political matters.
The AGO continues to navigate these challenges, seeking a sustainable path forward in its acquisition processes and ensuring that diverse perspectives are included in artistic discussions.
