Honoring the Legacies of Iris Cantor, Ulysses Jenkins, and Rena Bransten

**In Memoriam**

In the vibrant world of art, each individual contributes uniquely, weaving a tapestry of creativity and culture. As we bid farewell to these influential figures, we honor their profound impact on the art community.

**Iris Cantor (1931–2026)**
An esteemed arts patron, Iris Cantor was the chairwoman of the Iris & B. Gerald Cantor Foundation. Her philanthropic efforts resulted in significant donations to arts, medical, and educational institutions worldwide. Cantor curated one of the largest private collections of sculptures by Auguste Rodin, a testament to her enduring passion for classical art.

**Rena Bransten (1933–2026)**
A pillar of the San Francisco art scene, Rena Bransten ran an eponymous gallery that supported local talent, focusing on artists of color, women, and LGBTQ+ practitioners. Her legacy lies in her dedication to showcasing diverse voices in art.

**Mario Buhagiar (1945–2026)**
A revered Maltese art historian, Mario Buhagiar founded the art history department at the University of Malta. His scholarly works enriched our understanding of Maltese art, particularly in early Christian art, archaeology, and the history of the Knights of St. John.

**Jacopo Camagni (1977–2026)**
An innovative Italian comic artist, Jacopo Camagni captivated audiences with creations like “Lupin II Millennium” and “Nomen Omen.” His collaborations with Marvel on titles such as “Hawkeye vs. Deadpool” made him a recognized figure in the comic book world.

**Paul Conroy (1964–2026)**
Renowned for his courage and skill, British war photographer Paul Conroy captured images from conflict zones globally. His notable work on the siege of Homs, Syria, left an indelible mark on photojournalism, inspiring the film “A Private War.”

**Zach Horn (d. 2026)**
As an interdisciplinary artist and educator, Zach Horn depicted labor unions and everyday objects with poignant realism. His exhibitions received acclaim across the United States and internationally, influencing students at the University of Massachusetts Boston.

**Hwang Jae-hyung (1952–2026)**
A trailblazer in Korean realism, Hwang Jae-hyung was known for his evocative depictions of coal mining sites. His work was celebrated in a solo exhibition at Seoul’s National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art.

**Ulysses Jenkins (1946–2026)**
Avant-garde video artist Ulysses Jenkins explored themes of history and identity through his innovative documentaries. A student and later instructor at Otis College, Jenkins left a substantial impact on video art, exemplified by his Hammer Museum retrospective.

**Stephen Koch (1941–2026)**
As an author and literary figure, Stephen Koch was instrumental in preserving the legacy of photographer Peter Hujar. His work ensured Hujar’s place in American art history.

**Fenwick Lawson (1932–2026)**
British sculptor Fenwick Lawson was known for his neo-brutalist style and intricate wood carvings. His teachings and works, prominent in Newcastle upon Tyne and beyond, profoundly influenced the region’s art landscape.

**Jasmine Little (1984–2026)**
Jasmine Little’s large-scale ceramic works captivated audiences with their complex blend of pattern, text, and imagery. Her contributions to the Los Angeles art scene remain impactful.

**Satoshi Mori (1984–2026)**
Gift-o’-Animation president Satoshi Mori played a pivotal role in anime, contributing to popular series like “Cardfight!! Vanguard” and “Sword Art Online 2.”

**Giancarlo Politi (1937–2026)**
As the founder of Flash Art, Giancarlo Politi was a formidable presence in contemporary art. His publishing initiatives and influence on art criticism have shaped cultural discourse for decades.

**Asher Remy-Toledo (1963–2026)**
Colombian-born cultural producer Asher Remy-Toledo championed innovative transdisciplinary projects. His leadership roles at organizations like Hyphen Hub left a lasting impact on the global art community.

**G.G. Santiago (1943–2026)**
Latvian-born artist G.G. Santiago famously created “Rainbow Brite,” an iconic animated series that charmed audiences and inspired creativity.

**Jean Widmer (1939–2026)**
French-Swiss graphic artist Jean Widmer immortalized France’s cultural identity through his pioneering road signs and logos, most notably the Pompidou Center’s branding.

In celebrating these individuals, we acknowledge their passion, vision, and dedication to art in all its forms. Their contributions will continue to inspire future generations of artists and enthusiasts.