David A. Ross, the former chair of the MFA art practice programme at the School of Visual Arts in New York, has stepped down following the exposure of his correspondence with the infamous Jeffrey Epstein. This resignation comes in the wake of newly released documents that have brought to light the extent of Ross’s friendship with the convicted sex offender, drawing significant scrutiny and ultimately leading to his departure from the institution.
Unveiling the Correspondence
Ross’s resignation was confirmed on Tuesday, following reports from ARTnews that highlighted his communications with Epstein from 2009. The emails reveal a troubling rapport, with Ross expressing admiration for Epstein and suggesting a meeting. In one particular exchange, Epstein proposed a controversial exhibition titled “Statutory” that would feature young individuals aged 14 to 25, prompting Ross to respond with compliments and references to other controversial figures.
The School of Visual Arts has stated that it was aware of the correspondence between Ross and Epstein and has since removed Ross’s profile from its website. The institution’s swift action underscores the gravity of the situation as it navigates the fallout from these revelations.
A Disturbing Legacy
In his emails, Ross referred to Epstein as “incredible” and indicated a willingness to support him during troubling times. After Epstein’s deposition in 2009, Ross wrote, “Damn, this was not what you needed or deserved,” expressing concern for his friend. His support continued even as Epstein faced renewed allegations in 2019, which Ross later described as a “terrible mistake of judgement.”
In a statement to ARTnews following his resignation, Ross acknowledged that he first met Epstein in the mid-1990s while serving as the director of the Whitney Museum of American Art. He justified their relationship by stating that it was part of his role to engage with potential benefactors.
Epstein’s Troubling History
Epstein’s criminal history is well-documented, having pleaded guilty in 2008 to charges related to soliciting prostitution, including from minors. Despite this, Ross revealed in his communications that he had initially believed Epstein’s claims of being the victim of a “political frame-up.” However, he later expressed profound regret for having been misled, stating, “When the reality of his crimes became clear, I was mortified and remain ashamed that I fell for his lies.”
The emails are part of a vast trove of over three million documents released by the U.S. Department of Justice, shedding light on Epstein’s connections to numerous prominent figures.
The Broader Context
Ross’s resignation is part of a larger narrative that questions the accountability of those who associated with Epstein. The fallout from his actions not only impacts the individuals involved but also raises concerns regarding institutional integrity and the responsibilities of public figures in their associations.
Why it Matters
The resignation of David A. Ross serves as a stark reminder of the complexities surrounding high-profile relationships and the ethical dilemmas they can present. As institutions strive to maintain their reputations, the scrutiny of connections to controversial figures like Epstein reveals a critical need for transparency and accountability. This incident also encourages a broader societal reflection on the implications of power dynamics and the importance of ethical clarity in the arts and beyond. The ramifications of these revelations will likely resonate throughout the art world and influence future institutional policies regarding affiliations with prominent benefactors.
