The Yale School Of Arts, one of the most prestigious art institutions in America, appointed Kymberly Pinder as its new dean.
Pinder becomes the first woman of color to hold this position in the 150 years of the institution. She is also only the second woman to become Yale’s dean. She will be replacing Marta Kuzma, who has been serving as a dean of the university since 2016. Pinder’s tenure will begin on July 1st.
Kymberly Pinder is an alumnus of the Yale School of Arts. She received her Ph.D. in 1995 from the art department of the university. Over the years, Pinder has served in leadership positions across a vast range of notable organizations. She has been a dean of the University of New Mexico College of Fine Arts, and previously served as chair of the art department there. She also directed the graduate program at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. Most recently, Pinder was working as the acting president of the Massachusetts College of Art and Design. She had previously served as a provost and senior vice president of academic affairs in the institute.
Academically, Pinder is notable for her expertise in the mural and public arts. She has also worked on the issues of race and representation. Her 2016 book, Painting the Gospel: Black Public Art and Religion in Chicago, was praised for underlining the importance of Black artists of Chicago representing Black people in art.
Pinder released a statement after her appointment, saying:
“The Yale School of Art provides an unmatched platform for promoting excellence while effecting positive change. I look forward to working with colleagues and students across the campus, the city, and the globe to extend the boundaries of arts practice and education.”
