Justin Van Hoy
In memory of one of the art world’s most beloved curators.
Tribute to Curator & Artist Justin Van Hoy
Near the end of 2012, the contemporary art community was rocked by the sudden passing of the seemingly universally loved and respected artist, designer and curator, Justin Van Hoy. After remarkably overcoming cancer and Leukemia in the last 10 years, Van Hoy tragically succumbed to his illness at the age of 31. He was the co-founder of THIS Gallery in Los Angeles, and also at various times worked for and contributed to OBEY Giant, RVCA, Gagosian Gallery, and Swindle Magazine, among others.
I did not have the pleasure of personally knowing Justin, but have known of him and his contributions for some time. Since his death, the Internet has been flooded with friends and collaborators glowing eulogies that depict the man as a passionate leader and trailblazer who was instrumental in fostering connections between many creative individuals. He was a driving force for many, and was well noted for invigorating those who had the privilege of making his acquaintance. Many of my friends and collegues were close to him, and I felt it particularly important to speak with one of them, Andres Guerrero of Guerrero Gallery in San Francisco. The gallery recently hosted what was to be Mr. Van Hoy’s final curatorial project , ‘By Way of the South’. The exhibition had been in the works for some time, and in essence, served as a tribute to the artists and colleagues who had influenced, inspired and shared a connection to home state of the man from Charleston, SC. van Hoy had also recently authored ‘Milk and Honey’, a catalogue of contemporary art in California, which was featured in the gallery’s project room in conjunction with the primary exhibit. Much like the group featured in ‘By Way of the South’, this anthology centers around the belief that geographical location and lifestyle directly influence an artist’s process and therefore, the condition of modern imagery. The survey had compiled a wonderful collection of young and innovative individuals to pair with established icons based throughout the state.
His dedication and passion to fostering the art community in California was unquestioned, unparalleled and his loss has been devastating for many. But the light, and legacy left behind has paved a very bright future for those effected by his work. A special thanks to Andres Guerrero for taking the time to speak about his friend and collaborator.
>Interview With<
Andres Guerrero Gs> What Was Your Prior Relationship with Justin?
We had known each other for several years now, meeting through Roger Gastman, Dan Flores, Shepard Fairey and Shane Jessup. It was a great relationship through our love and passion for the arts.
Gs> How long had this project with Justin been in the works? How was it originally presented to you?
We had talked about working together for about a year and really solidified it about 5 months before the January 2013 presentation.
Both By Way of the South was Justin’s idea for the show and the Milk and Honey presentation was also his idea.
...his drive and ambition motivated others and provided opportunities and created communities. He was a catalyst for many and binder for all.
Gs> How far along were you as far as joint curation at the time of his passing?
The show and the artists for the “By Way of the South” presentation was already set up by Justin and the Milk and Honey presentation was being worked on by him. We had originally talked and agreed upon doing a small survey of the “Milk and Honey” book that he had just put together.
After his passing, everyone came together to really help out with seeing his vision through. With this, we all thought it would be best to honor him by involving as many of the artists from the “Milk and Honey” book.
Gs> In terms of being the final (or one of the final) exhibitions he was working on, what kind of impression do you feel the show has left on its viewers? And on you?
Considering the turn out for his exhibition, I really believe the viewers appreciated and supported what he was doing. The show was well received and everyone had nothing but good to say about it and him. For myself, it was an honor to work with him and to have presented this show on his behalf along with all his friends was a very special moment that will live with me forever. I miss you buddy.
Gs> How would you some up the importance of this show and the book in terms of regional and provincial significance?
Considering that both presentations had to do with regional and provincial concepts of who and where he was from, presented a honest and personal exhibition that brought to light a glimpse of his vision and love for developing and pushing forward a network of artists that he found inspirational and important and close to his heart.
Gs> What would you say the 3 most significant things to come out of this experience for yourself personally?
Communication. Build bridges. To live every day to it’s fullest.
Gs> How would you describe the art world as a better place having had Justin in it?
It became a better place because his drive and ambition motivated others and provided opportunities and created communities. He was a catalyst for many and binder for all. His ability to bring individuals together was something very special and very unique. He brought creative minds together that other wise wouldn’t have connected. Good people always make everything better.
