David Pagel

David Pagel is a Professor of Art Theory and History in the Art Department at Claremont Graduate University (CGU), where he teaches courses such as Studio Art, Survey of Contemporary Art, and Written Statement. He holds an MA in Art History from Harvard University and a BA in Modern Thought and Literature from Stanford University. His academic and professional work bridges critical theory, curatorial practice, and artistic engagement.

Research Interests: Pagel’s work centers on contemporary art, painting, art criticism, museums, and the role of creativity in intellectual inquiry. He emphasizes emotional resonance, narrative construction, and the aesthetic experience, often exploring how pleasure and empathy function within serious artistic discourse. His research extends into curatorial projects that reframe artistic legacies and highlight underrepresented narratives.

His recent publications and exhibition contributions reveal a consistent focus on figurative and abstract painting, portraiture, emotional expression, and the interplay between cultural identity and artistic form. Themes such as empathy, identity, pattern, and materiality recur across his writings, reflecting both personal and broader societal concerns in contemporary visual culture.

Professional Recognition:

• Reviews Editor, Art Issues (1998–2001)
• Regular contributor to Artforum, Art in America, frieze, and the Los Angeles Times
• Adjunct Curator, Parrish Art Museum

Advising and Professional Engagement: As a professor at CGU, Pagel mentors emerging artists and art historians. He has curated numerous exhibitions, including Unfinished Business, Underground Pop, and Damage Romanticism, and is currently co-organizing Pattern as Platform, a 40-artist exhibition. His editorial and curatorial roles demonstrate sustained leadership in the art world.

Labs and Creative Teams: Pagel collaborates with artists, galleries, and institutions such as Deitch Projects, Spelman Evans Downer, and VAST space projects. He works closely with Kirk Pedersen on curatorial initiatives and contributes to exhibition catalogs for galleries including Miles McEnery, L.A. Louver, and Sikkema Jenkins.