Andrea Vander Kooij

To Whom It May Concern:

I am writing to express my support for Astria Suparak, and my dismay at
hearing that she has been dismissed without much explanation from her
position as curator at the Warehouse Gallery.

Astria, curated my work for the show Faux Naturel, and in all my
interactions with her, I have found her to be unfailingly creative and
professional. Her exhibitions at the Warehouse Gallery were fresh and
thought provoking, and did not fall into the possible formulaic pitfalls
that programming in galleries related to academic institutions are often
prone to. Her shows were original, and interesting to both audiences from
within academia, and art insiders as well as those who were not gallery
regulars. This is no easy feat. She has a gift for putting together an
engaging show that was still rigorous and thoughtful. Her energy and drive
were always accompanied by kindness and integrity. In working with her it
was clear to me how much she invested in the success of the gallery, and I
am greatly puzzled as to why the University of Syracuse would not wish to
continue to employ a curator who brings so much to her position. I hope
that in light of the feedback from so many people who have worked with
her, you will reconsider your decision.


Sincerely,

Andrea Vander Kooij
Artist
Montreal, Canada