Candida Gertler, co-founder of the Outset Contemporary Art Fund, has stepped down from her roles within the organization and other UK arts institutions following widespread protests by artists and cultural workers.
The resignation comes after an open letter, signed by over 1,100 artists and art workers, called on Tate to sever ties with the Outset Contemporary Art Fund, Zabludowicz Art Trust, and Zabludowicz Art Projects. The letter accused these organizations of “artwashing” alleged connections to Israel’s controversial policies in Gaza, citing claims by international bodies describing the actions as genocidal and apartheid-like.
The protest gained support from high-profile figures, including Turner Prize nominee Jasleen Kaur and past winners Helen Cammock and Lawrence Abu Hamdan. Activists have also raised concerns about Gertler and her husband’s purported links to Israeli political figures, which previously led to the removal of their names from Goldsmiths Centre for Contemporary Art’s donor board.
In her statement, Gertler framed her resignation as a stand against antisemitism and hate within the arts, criticizing institutions for not addressing discrimination adequately. Outset trustees acknowledged her significant contributions to arts philanthropy and reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to fostering dialogue and supporting contemporary art.
