Tuesday, September 25, 2007

Alison de Lima Greene

Dear Astria,

Like many of us in the arts community I was shocked and dismayed by the news of your sudden dismissal at Syracuse. As you know, I have had the privilege of following your career since your first internship with Ralph McKay and the Andrea Frank Foundation, and I have always admired your commitment and professionalism. The critical intelligence you bring to all your work is outstanding.

Last year I visited Syracuse while taking part in a conference sponsored by Colgate University and Hamilton College. I was impressed by the remarkable spirit shared by the academic community. It seemed to me that the various schools had created an intellectual synergy that promoted the best in contemporary art and discourse. How disappointing to learn that Syracuse University no longer wishes to partake in such an endeavor.

Please know that despite this setback, your colleagues hold you in the highest regard,

Best wishes,

Alison

Alison de Lima Greene
Curator
Contemporary Art & Special Projects
Museum of Fine Arts, Houston
P.O. Box 6826
Houston, Texas 77265

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BACKGROUND

Syracuse has lost one its greatest assets. Astria Suparak, Inaugural Director of The Warehouse Gallery of Syracuse University, was removed from her position as of Sept. 30th, 2007, despite widespread support from community members, students, faculty, and the international art community. This decision was made unilaterally by Jeffrey Hoone, Executive Director of the Coalition of Museum and Art Centers (CMAC).

At the time of Suparak's dismissal, Hoone also canceled her forthcoming exhibitions, including "Keep It Slick: Infiltrating Capitalism with The Yes Men," due to open in November 2007.