Agnes “Aggie” Gund, a revered philanthropist who dedicated her life to using art as a tool for social change and educational equity, passed away on September 18 at the age of 87 in her Manhattan home. Her daughter, Catherine Gund, confirmed her death to the New York Times.
Gund was a passionate advocate for social justice and a prominent art collector, known for her work in supporting marginalized artists and communities. In response to drastic budget cuts that eliminated art classes in New York City public schools, she founded Studio in a School nearly fifty years ago, aiming to provide quality art education to every student.
One of Gund’s most notable initiatives was the Art for Justice Fund (A4J), launched in 2017 to address socioeconomic disparities in the criminal justice system, particularly affecting young people and people of color. By selling a prized artwork for $165 million, she raised $100 million for the fund, demonstrating a rare fusion of cultural patronage and social activism in the art world. The A4J disbursed over $127 million to support artists, activists, and organizations working towards ending mass incarceration.
Gund’s impact extended beyond the art world, as she also played a pivotal role at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), where she served as president emerita and life trustee. Her leadership led to the museum’s engagement with contemporary art and its merger with P.S. 1 Center for Contemporary Art, now known as MoMA PS1. She also contributed to MoMA’s significant expansion in 2004, showcasing her commitment to fostering artistic innovation.
In addition to her museum involvement, Gund served on several cultural institution boards, including the Cleveland Museum of Art, Foundation for Art and Preservation in Embassies, and Andy Warhol Foundation. She co-founded the Center for Curatorial Leadership in 2007, devoted to training and mentoring curators for museum leadership roles.
Gund’s passing has left a profound impact, with many in the art world honoring her legacy and remembering her as a trailblazer for social justice and cultural advancement. Writer and curator Laura Raicovich reflected on Gund’s unwavering support and encouragement, highlighting her lasting influence on the art community.
Agnes Gund’s visionary spirit and dedication to using art as a catalyst for change have left an indelible mark on the art world and beyond. Her legacy will continue to inspire future generations to advocate for social justice and equitable access to the arts.
