Lisa Freiman

Lisa Freiman is a tenured Professor in the Department of Art History at Virginia Commonwealth University’s School of the Arts. She is an internationally recognized curator, arts consultant, and writer, with leadership roles at major institutions. Her tenure includes founding director of VCU’s Institute for Contemporary Art (ICA) from 2013–2018, where she secured a $37 million capital campaign and launched the endowment campaign. Previously, she served as senior curator and department chair at the Indianapolis Museum of Art (IMA), overseeing transformative contemporary art initiatives like the acclaimed 100 Acres sculpture park. Her curatorial work includes the 2011 U.S. Pavilion at the Venice Biennale.

Education:

• PhD and MA in Modern and Contemporary Art History, Emory University
• BA, Oberlin College

Her research and practice focus on curatorial innovation, public engagement with contemporary art, and experimental models for cultural institutions. She pioneered projects emphasizing site-specific installations, collaborative artist commissions, and integrating nature with art in public spaces.

Key Achievements:

• Directed the ICA’s vision and operations, including exhibitions, education, and community outreach
• Developed IMA’s contemporary art program into a globally recognized platform
• Co-curated Declaration, the ICA’s inaugural exhibition

Freiman’s career bridges academia and practice, blending curatorial leadership with institutional development. She has held teaching roles, including as Assistant Professor at the University of Georgia, and contributed to major publications.