Natalia Ivanova (Bulgaria/U.S.A.) is a curator, artivist, and published author whose practice over the last two decades has focused on the role of art and culture in the commons, and what constitutes public practice – artistically, aesthetically, and intellectually – amidst radical shifts in the cultural landscape of the United States.
THE STORY: In the bustling streets of New York City, Natalia Ivanova's story began amidst the echoes of her homeland, Bulgaria, and the dreams of a better future.
It was 1992 when Natalia, accompanied by her mother, embarked on a journey across continents, leaving behind the constraints of a communist regime to seek refuge in the promise of America. The vibrant chaos of NYC's underground culture in the nineties and 2000s became Natalia's classroom, where she learned the language of rebellion and the poetry of art. Growing up amidst graffiti-covered alleys and avant-garde performances, Natalia's spirit blossomed, fueled by a deep appreciation for creativity and a hunger for exploration.
After graduating from Curtis High School in Staten Island in 1993, Natalia's path diverged into uncharted territories. Initially drawn to the world of law, she pursued a degree in criminal justice and law at John Jay College of Criminal Justice. Yet, her heart yearned for a different canvas, one where creativity and business converged.
It was a visit to PS1 (now MoMA PS1) in Queens in 1998 that ignited Natalia's passion for curatorial work. The pulsating energy of the exhibitions sparked a fire within her, leading her to seize an opportunity as a curatorial assistant at PS1. Under the mentorship of luminaries like Alanna Heiss, Natalia honed her skills, immersing herself in the intricate tapestry of art and culture management.
Driven by a desire to merge her artistic vision with business acumen, Natalia pursued an MBA in Media Management, carving a path towards entrepreneurship. Armed with newfound knowledge, she founded FLUX Digital Art Space in 2001 - a nonprofit organization that addressed the digital divide gap through artist-led projects and innovative digital art education curriculum in partnership with public schools, community centers, and social justice organizations in Harlem and the Bronx, NY.
Throughout her curatorial journey, Natalia Ivanova has distinguished herself as a dynamic cultural practitioner, driven by a profound passion for the arts and a desire to foster meaningful dialogue. Her international lectures, extensive travels, and engagements in academic and community settings attest to her commitment to sharing her expertise and enriching cultural discourse on a global scale. From her work at MoMA PS1 to her collaborations with underground collectives, she has consistently pushed the boundaries of artistic expression and challenged dominant power structures within the art world.
Her extensive curatorial portfolio spans a wide array of disciplines, encompassing exhibitions, interdisciplinary projects, public art installations, and engagements in theatre, film, radio, and music. Notably, Natalia was the curator of The New Situationists seminal survey of Bay Area avant-garde art and countercultural activities, spanning 1970 to 2017 at Pro Arts Gallery in 2017. The exhibition, supported by Phyllis C. Wattis Foundation, featuring works by 75 artists and collectives, underscored Natalia's dedication to amplifying alternative narratives within the cultural landscape.
As a founding member of the avant-garde art and producing collective Dadais Americanus, Natalia continues to push the boundaries of artistic collaboration and experimentation. With her remarkable ability to inspire and provoke thought, Natalia remains a driving force in the contemporary art landscape, shaping discourse and fostering meaningful connections across diverse communities.
As the director of Pro Arts in Oakland, California, Natalia continues to champion alternative narratives and modes of existence. Her essay, "Reframing the Value of Art and Fair Labor in the Context of a Sharing Economy," laid the groundwork for initiatives like the Pro Arts COMMONS, providing a platform for autonomous artists to reclaim agency within the cultural landscape.
Ivanova’s holistic approach to arts management encompasses a deep understanding of both artistic and business aspects. At Pro Arts, Natalia executed major branding initiatives, capital campaigns, and communication strategies, amplifying the reach and impact of the margins. With her sharp intellect and strategic mindset, she has penned numerous successful projects and grant applications, securing vital funding for various initiatives, including the performing arts and music. Her ability to cultivate relationships and close deals with individual donors has been instrumental in raising operational funds and project grants. Time and again, Natalia Ivanova has demonstrated her knack for identifying opportunities and leveraging resources to ensure the sustainability and growth of artistic endeavors.
Ivanova’s latest visionary initiatives include the establishment of the Ram + Leo Art Agency, aimed at reshaping traditional art paradigms through P2P and decentralized models of operation and service. In addition, Natalia is set to launch an upcoming podcast focused on the critical discourse surrounding degrowth, further solidifying her commitment to addressing pressing societal issues through artistic expression. Directly engaging with artists, Natalia provides invaluable support, nurturing their talent and helping them navigate the complexities of the art world.
Natalia is a celebrated author whose collaborative work with Marc Herbst, "The Commons: of Friends & Lovers," captivated audiences worldwide upon its publication in 2022 by Pro Arts COMMONS Press. With readings held across the United States and Europe, the book quickly became a sought-after title, selling out its initial print run. Currently, Natalia is immersed in her latest literary venture alongside Herbst, crafting a compelling exploration with the working title "The Commons as a Network of Friends, Strangers, and Things."
Through her dynamic cultural productions and unwavering commitment to artist empowerment, Natalia Ivanova has emerged as a trailblazer in the art world, reshaping possibilities and fostering a more inclusive and equitable future for all.