– Norton Batkin, Founding Director of CCS Bard, Has Died
– Norton Batkin, Director of CCS Bard, Passes Away.
Norton Batkin, the esteemed founding director of the Center for Curatorial Studies at Bard College, passed away earlier this week, as announced by the institution on Friday.
Batkin began his role as director of CCS Bard in 1991 and held the position until 2008. He was also the dean of graduate studies from 2005 until 2021, and assumed the role of vice president in 2009. Throughout his time at Bard, a renowned small liberal arts college in upstate New York, he was a professor of philosophy and art history.
Described as a dedicated educator, Batkin prioritized the students and the value of a comprehensive education. Tom Eccles, the current leader of CCS Bard, paid tribute to him on Instagram, stating, “Norton always put the students and the value of a solid education above all else, believing always in the value of their scholarship.”
Bard College President Leon Botstein also expressed his admiration for Batkin’s contributions, stating, “Norton established CCS’s reputation for exacting intellectual standards and innovation in its Master’s Degree curriculum and in its exhibitions.” Botstein further highlighted Batkin’s role in recruiting exceptional teachers and renowned practitioners, as well as his efforts in creating an international network of artists. Batkin also initiated the Audrey Irmas Award for Curatorial Excellence, which recognizes leading curators from around the world.
Botstein added, “Norton will long be remembered as will his devotion to Bard. I cannot imagine a kinder, gentler colleague or a better friend possessed equally of a razor-sharp intellect and a stunning sense of irony and humor. Norton was a wise and noble soul.”
The Center for Curatorial Studies at Bard College has nurtured numerous talented individuals who have gone on to make significant contributions to the art world. Notable alumni include Cecilia Alemani, who served as the artistic director of the 2022 Venice Biennale; Candice Hopkins, who curated the acclaimed “Indian Theater” exhibition at CCS Bard’s Hessel Museum of Art; and Ruba Katrib, the curator and director of curatorial affairs at MoMA PS1 since 2021.
A memorial service honoring the life and achievements of Norton Batkin is scheduled to take place in March.
In conclusion, the art world has lost a visionary and influential figure with the passing of Norton Batkin. His dedication to education and his impact on curatorial studies will be remembered for years to come. We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time..
– Norton Batkin, Founding Director of CCS Bard, Has Died – ARTnews.com
– Norton Batkin, Founding Director of CCS Bard, Passes Away – ARTnews.com.
