There is always something new to find at the Institute of Contemporary Art (ICA). Zoë Ryan, who joined ICA as its Dietrich Director on November 5, is looking forward to a time when it is safe to welcome audiences back to the Institute to enjoy eye-opening, immersive experiences with arts, artists, and the West Philadelphia community.
What makes ICA an exciting place for you?
I’m really excited by the opportunities we have at ICA to develop and support projects within the academic landscape of Penn. ICA’s commitment to staging exhibitions and programs that underscore the power of art to reflect on and challenge current ideas in contemporary thought has informed my own work for more than 20 years. Right now, I’m interested in developing projects that highlight under-recognized ideas and that explore alternative narratives–something that is so necessary in modern society. I can’t wait to find new ways to inspire both Penn and the larger Philadelphia community.
I believe in the power of institutions like ICA that are grounded in experimentation and discovery and are committed to engaging diverse audiences.”Zoë Ryan, Daniel W. Dietrich, II Director, Institute of Contemporary Art
What is your vision for ICA?
Public engagement is vital to a vibrant contemporary art museum. I think a lot about ways to bring audiences closer to the arts and how to empower them to make strong connections.
ICA audiences are valuable partners in the work we do. I’d like to design ICA from the inside out, prioritizing access, equity, and many voices through the works on display. I plan to be transparent about how we develop ICA culture, how our visitors experience ICA installations both in-person and virtually, and what we contribute to local and international communities.
I am also excited about expanding ICA’s critical role as a portal for students to stretch their imaginations. This is a terrific opportunity to enhance ICA’s role as a research institute and as an incubator for ideas, and I look forward to exploring potential partnerships and collaborations across Penn and within the city of Philadelphia.
How can ICA help drive conversations around social and political movements?
Art compels us to reflect on who we are and our relationships with the world and one another. ICA has long championed diverse voices and projects that help us make sense of the world while creating new currents in contemporary thought. I’m keenly interested in the ways ICA can continue to foster new projects that reflect on and challenge the way we experience current events.
In the wake of the killing of Walter Wallace Jr. in West Philadelphia, we are witnessing the devastating effects of systemic racism in our own backyard. 2020 has provided cultural institutions with an opportunity to examine what we can do to be instruments for change. I’m committed to making ICA an equitable and welcoming space for everyone in our community.”Zoë Ryan
(Even though we are still dealing with COVID,) What are you looking forward to most in your new role and living in Philadelphia?
Getting to know my brilliant colleagues at ICA through Zoom for now, along with building relationships across Penn and Philadelphia. As a long-time Chicago resident, I’m looking forward to a winter that doesn’t dip into Arctic temperatures!
