Chicago's cultural commissioner resigns

"Within months, DCASE staff began leaving and it became well-known within the art community that the work environment at the agency was toxic. In April of this year, a newly formed advocacy group called Artists for Chicago wrote a letter to the mayor outlining the dysfunction at DCASE that included allegations of bullying, lack of communication and a staff unable to adequately keep up with its obligations because of the high turnover."

"A letter sent to The Art Newspaper stated that a report from the Chicago Inspector General on the matter was expected in July. According to a source who spoke on condition of anonymity for fear of reprisal, the report was finally released recently and its contents were scathing-had Hedspeth not quit, the source said, she would likely have been fired."

"Not only was Hedspeth's track record in the arts limited-she held positions including as a specialist at the auction house Phillips and as the director of curatorial services at the DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center-but her appointment meant the dismissal of the very competent commissioner Erin Harkey (who has since been appointed to run the advocacy organisation Americans for the Arts)."

Clinée Hedspeth resigned effective immediately from her role as commissioner of Chicago's Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events. Mayor Brandon Johnson appointed Hedspeth in March 2024 despite skepticism about her limited arts-track record. Hedspeth's appointment led to the dismissal of former commissioner Erin Harkey. DCASE experienced staff departures, reports of a toxic work environment, and high turnover. Artists for Chicago sent a letter alleging bullying, poor communication and inability to meet obligations. At least two formal complaints went to the Office of the Inspector General. A recently released inspector general report reportedly contained scathing findings and suggested Hedspeth likely would have been fired.

Read at The Art Newspaper - International art news and events