The art world mourns the loss of Kathleen Goncharov, a revered figure whose curatorial prowess and artistic endeavors left an indelible mark on numerous institutions and countless artists. Her passing at 73 years old signifies the departure of a visionary who consistently championed diverse voices and brought compelling narratives to the forefront of contemporary art. Her career highlights, from groundbreaking exhibitions at the Boca Raton Museum of Art to her influential role at the Venice Biennale, underscore her significant contributions. Goncharov's unique approach to art, characterized by an acute curatorial eye and a passion for artistic expression, shaped her enduring legacy.
A Legacy of Vision and Dedication: Remembering Kathleen Goncharov
On December 31st, Kathleen Goncharov, a distinguished curator and artist, concluded her remarkable journey at the age of 73 in her Boca Raton, Florida residence. Her professional life was a testament to her profound impact on the global art landscape, marked by significant positions and groundbreaking exhibitions.
Goncharov's career began in New York in 1980 at the Just Above Midtown (JAM) Gallery, where she organized a variety of performances and exhibitions. From 1983 to 1986, she served as the director of exhibitions at Creative Time, a prominent New York public art organization. Her influence extended to the New School in New York City, where from 1987 to 2001, she curated an extensive collection and developed public programs for the Vera List Center for Art and Politics.
A pivotal moment in her career arrived in 2003 when she served as the commissioner for the U.S. Pavilion at the Venice Biennale. Under her guidance, the pavilion showcased Fred Wilson's thought-provoking exhibition, “Speak of Me as I Am,” which explored the historical and contemporary experiences of Black individuals in Venice. This initiative highlighted her commitment to fostering important dialogues through art.
From 2012 until her retirement in 2025, Goncharov held the esteemed position of senior curator at the Boca Raton Museum of Art in Florida. During her tenure, she curated over 30 exhibitions, featuring works by renowned artists such as Tony Oursler, Whitfield Lovell, and Maren Hassinger, among many others. Irvin Lippman, former executive director of the Boca Raton Museum of Art, praised Goncharov's exceptional 'curatorial eye' and her ability to infuse exhibitions with 'soul,' emphasizing her unique talent in breathing life into artistic displays.
Beyond her curatorial achievements, Goncharov was also a practicing artist for four decades. Her artistic debut, “Above and Below,” was presented at New York's Olympia gallery in 2022. Inspired by early Italian Renaissance painters like Giotto and Fra Angelico, particularly the distinctive styles of Sienese artists, her work explored religious subjectivity with unique forms and colors.
Kathleen Goncharov leaves behind a rich legacy through her invaluable contributions to the art world, touching the lives of many artists and art enthusiasts. She is survived by her longtime partner, poet Charles Doria, her sister Janet Sterling and her family, and her brother Earl Shew and his family.
Kathleen Goncharov's journey through the art world serves as a profound inspiration. Her dedication to discovering and showcasing diverse artistic expressions, coupled with her bold curatorial vision, reminds us of the transformative power of art. Her work, especially her innovative approach to challenging traditional narratives, encourages us to constantly question and explore new perspectives. She has left an enduring blueprint for future curators and artists to follow, emphasizing the importance of authenticity, intellectual rigor, and a deep human connection in the creation and presentation of art.