Claude Simard, co-founder of Jack Shainman Gallery has died, a statement from the gallery confirms. Jack Shainman and Simard formed the Washington, DC, gallery in 1984, opening with a show of Simard’s own work, which has since been included in the collections of the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, the Montreal Museum of Contemporary Art, the Akron Art Museum, and the Guggenheim. While maintaining his personal practice, Simard remained hands-on at the commercial space which represents, among others, El Anatsui, Richard Mosse, Lynette Yiadom Boakye and Michael Snow.
In a statement Shainman said, ‘The earth beneath tilted on Tuesday with the sudden passing of Claude Simard, co-founder of the gallery and beloved friend. Claude was an inspiration to us all and he will be deeply missed… Known for his kind words and innumerable acts of generosity, his quiet demeanor was matched only by his exuberance and expert eye. A voracious collector of artworks and artifacts from around the world, his passion reached everyone who knew him. He nurtured the careers of numerous artists and touched the lives of countless individuals who credit him with their appreciation and love for art.’
26 June 2014
