As the year concludes, it’s essential to pause and honor the memories of those we’ve lost. David Lynch, whose visionary filmmaking set a new benchmark in the industry. Frank Gehry, the architect who reshaped cityscapes. Jaune Quick-to-See Smith, a formidable force in Indigenous art. Alonzo Davis, a pioneer among Black gallerists in America. Koyo Kouoh, poised to become the first African woman to direct the Venice Biennale. These are just a few of the many we remember.
Below is a list of 20 esteemed individuals we have lost this year, arranged chronologically by their passing. Our weekly column, In Memoriam, provides deeper insights into their lives and the indelible marks they left on the world. As we step into the new year, we carry their legacies with us.
David Lynch (b. 1946), a filmmaker who captivated audiences with uncanny narratives, left a lasting imprint on horror, surrealism, and melodrama in cinema. Jo Baer (b. 1929), a pioneer of ‘radical figuration,’ emerged from the male-dominated Minimalism movement before embracing more experimental forms.
Jaune Quick-to-See Smith (b. 1940) was a prolific Indigenous artist whose work combined humor and sociopolitical insight. Alonzo Davis (b. 1942) co-founded the first major Black-owned contemporary gallery in Los Angeles, championing Black American art for over six decades.
Mel Bochner (b. 1940), a conceptual artist, revolutionized the use of language as a medium. Dorgham Qreiqea (b. 1997), a Palestinian muralist, was tragically killed in Gaza by an airstrike. Nona Faustine (b. 1977) used photography to confront racial and gender legacies.
