Sari Dienes Foundation

The Sari Dienes Foundation is a US nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and promoting the legacy of Hungarian-born American artist Sari Dienes (1898–1992). The foundation was established to ensure the long-term conservation and exhibition of Dienes' work, which spans multiple media including paintings, drawings, prints, sculptures, and mixed-media installations.

Purpose

The primary objective of the Sari Dienes Foundation is to honor Dienes' contributions to the development of modern and contemporary art. She was a pioneer in assemblage and a significant influence on prominent artists like Robert Rauschenberg and Jasper Johns. Her innovative approach to art involved using found objects and experimenting with various materials and techniques, which laid the groundwork for subsequent generations of artists.

Activities

• Conservation and Preservation: The foundation focuses on the preservation of Dienes' artworks, many of which are large-scale and fragile. Efforts have been made to improve storage conditions and prevent further deterioration of these pieces.
• Exhibition and Education: The foundation facilitates exhibitions and educational programs to increase awareness and understanding of Dienes' artistic achievements and her role in shaping contemporary art.
• Documentation and Research: It supports scholarly research on Dienes' life and work, contributing to a broader understanding of her influence on the art world.

History of Sari Dienes' Influence

Sari Dienes was a key figure in New York's art scene during the mid-20th century. Her collaborations with artists like John Cage and Jasper Johns reflect her commitment to innovation and interdisciplinarity. The foundation continues her legacy by fostering engagement with her art and promoting its significance within the broader history of modern art.

[1] https://cool.culturalheritage.org/coolaic/sg/bpg/annual/v36/bpga36-11.pdf [2] https://whitehotmagazine.com/articles/museum-show-for-sari-dienes/5895 [3] https://ifacontemporary.org/unfurling-sari-dienes/ [4] https://rocklandartcenter.org/the-luminary-artists-of-rockland-sari-dienes-a-virtual-presentation-via-zoom-with-rip-hayman-and-barbara-pollitt-of-the-sari-dienes-foundation-2.html [5] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sari_Dienes