UPDATE: David A. Ross has resigned from his position as chair of the School of Visual Arts (SVA) MFA Art Practice Department effective immediately, following the explosive release of emails linking him to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. This urgent development comes as public outrage grows over Ross’s extensive correspondence with Epstein, much of which dates back to 1999 and extends beyond Epstein’s 2008 conviction.
The Department of Justice made these email exchanges public, revealing troubling insights into Ross’s relationship with Epstein, including a shocking email from January 2015 where Ross proclaimed he was “still proud” to call Epstein a friend. This revelation has triggered a significant backlash among SVA students and alumni, who demanded that the school sever its ties with Ross.
A spokesperson for SVA confirmed the resignation and stated, “The school is aware of the communications between Ross and Epstein.” This statement follows a wave of criticism directed at Ross, particularly after the release of emails that show Ross’s troubling support of Epstein during and after his legal troubles.
In a July 22, 2009 email, just hours after Epstein’s release from jail following a conviction for soliciting prostitution from a minor, Ross expressed his relief, stating, “Ah… just about to email you a welcome home! glad the nightmare is over, Jeffrey.” Such sentiments have raised serious ethical questions regarding Ross’s judgment and associations.
Further email exchanges reveal Ross’s alarming enthusiasm for Epstein’s controversial ideas, including plans for an exhibition that would feature minors’ images. Epstein’s email from October 2009 discussed the idea of a provocative exhibition, to which Ross responded favorably, indicating a troubling level of engagement with Epstein’s questionable proposals.
These emails are part of millions of documents related to Epstein’s crimes that have recently come to light. Ross’s communications with Epstein continued even when Epstein was incarcerated, with Ross writing to him in April 2009 about teaching at SVA, calling it “ironic” given Epstein’s situation.
Ross’s tenure at SVA began in 2009, following a distinguished career in various art institutions, including the Institute of Contemporary Art in Boston and the Whitney Museum of American Art. He also co-founded the auction data platform MutualArt. His resignation marks a critical moment for the institution, which is now navigating the fallout from these revelations.
The implications of Ross’s resignation extend beyond SVA, as the art community grapples with the pervasive influence of Epstein’s network. Prominent artist Jeff Koons has also been drawn into the controversy, confirming his past attendance at a dinner hosted by Epstein, further highlighting the connections between Epstein and influential figures in the arts.
As the situation develops, the SVA community is left to reflect on the broader impact of these revelations, with calls for accountability and reform in the wake of such troubling associations. The urgency of this unfolding drama continues to resonate, demanding immediate attention and action from both the institution and the wider art world.
What happens next for the School of Visual Arts and its community remains to be seen, but the repercussions of these revelations are likely to be felt for some time. Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.
