Leadership to change at franchise gallery
by Kresta Tyler Johnson
'franchise' will see a passing of the baton when current director and curator Jena McCarthy leaves in December, and Lara Rivera steps up to the helm. In a precarious world where galleries come and go, McCarthy has developed and established franchise through innovative exhibitions in the fledgling retail environment of the 44 Stanley Avenue Complex. The Gallery has already expanded once to occupy a much larger space.
An artist and lecturer herself, McCarthy is not afraid to support emerging artists, often turning over the Gallery space to Master's students' shows. McCarthy's willingness to take risks and break moulds has proved viable.
McCarthy will leave the gallery to focus more on her own work and participation in numerous international art projects. Stepping into the role of curator will be a young, South African artist, Lara Rivera. A recent graduate of the Glasgow School of Art where she obtained her Master's degree, Rivera will have the challenge of continuing the vibrancy and enthusiasm that McCarthy brought to the gallery.
