In a remarkable initiative, Allison Berg has set up a foundation dedicated to elevating the careers of six emerging visual arts curators, educators, and administrators annually. This foundation serves as a beacon of hope and opportunity in an often insular and elitist world.

Unlock Potential in Visual Arts with the A&L Berg Foundation

Foundation's Inspiring Beginnings

In the fall of 2020, arts patron Allison Berg had a life-changing experience. She listened to the book “From Generosity to Justice: A New Gospel of Wealth” by Darren Walker, the president of the Ford Foundation. This encounter sparked a lightbulb moment for Berg as she realized the importance of taking action to influence systemic change towards equity and justice. Berg, who is actively involved in the art world as a board member of the Los Angeles County Museum of Art and a collector of renowned artists like Louise Bourgeois and Rashid Johnson, had been seeking a way to give her philanthropy more focus and make a more meaningful impact. With her husband Larry, a managing owner of the Los Angeles Football Club and a private equity investor, they established the A&L Berg Foundation. The foundation's fellowship aims to help emerging visual arts professionals from underrepresented groups navigate the complex world of visual arts.

Berg shared her insights in an interview, stating, “I've spoken with these young people, and that's how they often perceive it - as a vast space of whiteness where they have no one to turn to with their concerns and experiences. They don't feel safe.” This realization drove the foundation's mission to provide a supportive environment for these emerging talents.

The Annual Fellowship: A Game Changer

The annual fellowship funded in perpetuity offers six arts professionals a generous $10,000 grant each. Alongside the financial support, fellows receive mentoring and workshops that equip them with the necessary skills and knowledge. These sessions culminate in an all-expenses-paid visit to a major arts event, such as the Venice Biennale. This year, the first group of fellows attended the V.I.P. preview, opening doors to new experiences and connections.

One of the fellows, Sofía Reeser del Rio, expressed her gratitude, saying, “This fellowship has been a game-changer for me. It has given me the confidence and support to pursue my dreams in the visual arts. The mentoring and workshops have been invaluable, and the opportunity to attend the Venice Biennale is a dream come true.”

Verge's Support: Professional Guidance

In addition to the fellowship, the fellows are provided with a year of support from Verge, a recruiting and human resources firm. Verge offers professional guidance, helping fellows improve their LinkedIn accounts and resumes. This support extends beyond the financial aspect, preparing fellows for successful careers in the visual arts.

Juan Silverio, another fellow, emphasized the importance of this support, stating, “Verge's guidance has helped me present myself better in the professional world. It has given me the tools to stand out and make a mark in the visual arts.”

The A&L Berg Foundation is making a significant impact by providing a platform for emerging visual arts professionals to thrive and contribute to the art world. With its focus on equity and justice, it is paving the way for a more inclusive and diverse future.