We are thrilled to announce that Ellis Clay (he/him) will be joining ArtRage Gallery as our new Co-Director in August!

Ellis brings a deep passion for social justice, equity and the transformative power of art. Originally from Lafayette, Louisiana, Ellis graduated from Pace University where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Peace and Justice Studies and Political Science with a Minor in Creative Writing and Women’s & Gender Studies. He has worked at Pace University Art Gallery as a Co-Curator since January of 2025 and as the Edinburgh Art Festival’s Associate Civic Curator in the summer of 2024. In curation and community engagement, he continually keeps accessibility and inclusivity in mind through his public programming work. Additionally, Ellis has engaged in international advocacy work at the United Nations regarding nuclear weapons. He has also worked for queer advocacy in founding We Demand More, a group of a hundred plus alumni who pushed back against the Diocese of Lafayette’s Sexual Identity Policy.

This transition also marks a moment of deep gratitude and celebration. We extend our heartfelt thanks to our Founding Director, Rose Viviano, for her 17 years of visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to our mission. Her guidance laid the foundation for a space where creativity and justice thrive side by side, and her impact will resonate for generations to come.We are equally grateful for the continued leadership of Kimberley McCoy, whose deep expertise and dedication have helped shape the gallery’s evolution over the past 16 years.

In this shared leadership role, Ellis will partner with Kimberley to further our mission of uplifting underrepresented voices, fostering inclusive creative spaces, and driving meaningful dialogue through art. Please join us in welcoming Ellis Clay to ArtRage Gallery as we move forward – honoring our past, celebrating the present, and creating a bold future through art and activism.

Photo Credit: Davey Chen