David A. Ross has resigned from his position as chair of the School of Visual Arts (SVA) MFA Art Practice Department, effective immediately. This decision follows the release of emails by the Department of Justice that reveal extensive correspondence between Ross and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
The newly disclosed emails date back to 1999, with many sent during and after Epstein’s 2008 conviction for soliciting prostitution from a minor. In one particular email from January 2015, Ross expressed pride in calling Epstein a friend, describing it as “depressing” to see Epstein “once again being dragged through the mud.” A spokesperson for SVA confirmed the school’s awareness of the communications and stated that Ross’s resignation was accepted promptly.
Calls for Ross to step down intensified among SVA students and alumni after the emails surfaced. The correspondence revealed troubling discussions, including one from July 22, 2009, the day Epstein was released from jail. Ross welcomed Epstein back, writing, “Ah… just about to email you a welcome home! Glad the nightmare is over, Jeffrey… it was an undeserved punishment foisted upon you by jealous creeps.” This email highlights the nature of Ross’s relationship with Epstein, raising concerns about his judgment.
Revelations and Public Reaction
Records show that Ross communicated with Epstein while he was serving his sentence. Notably, an email from April 2009 indicated Ross was teaching at SVA while also discussing his new role as a special assistant to the president of the school. Ross mentioned financial struggles, stating he was owed $200,000 by a business partner in London, although details about this enterprise remain unclear.
The emails also uncovered unsettling ideas proposed by Epstein, including funding an exhibition featuring images of minors. In an October 2009 exchange, Epstein suggested a controversial exhibition showcasing juvenile mug shots and remarked, “some people go to prison because they can’t tell true age.” Ross responded enthusiastically, calling it a “very powerful and freaky book,” indicating his willingness to engage with Epstein’s troubling concepts.
Ross’s tenure at SVA has drawn scrutiny in light of these revelations. He served as chair of the MFA Art Practice program since 2009, following a distinguished career in notable art institutions, including the Institute of Contemporary Art in Boston, the Whitney Museum of American Art, and the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art. He also co-founded the auction data platform MutualArt in 2008.
Broader Implications for the Art Community
This incident is part of a larger pattern involving Epstein’s connections to various figures in the arts, culture, and education. Recently, artist Jeff Koons confirmed he attended a dinner at Epstein’s home, further highlighting the breadth of Epstein’s influence. The fallout from these revelations may prompt deeper discussions within the art community about accountability and the moral implications of past associations.
As this situation continues to develop, it underscores the importance of transparency and ethical standards in academic and artistic institutions. The impact of Ross’s resignation on SVA and its community remains to be seen, but it is clear that the ramifications of these revelations will be felt for some time.
