Lynn Schuette, the founder of the progressive arts venue Sushi and has been asked to step down from her post as interim executive director for budgetary reasons. According to a statement released yesterday, the Sushi board of directors made the decision to let Schuette go "to preserve the remainder of the season" during tough economic times.
Sushi just moved into a new space in the East Village at 11th and J Streets, after four years without a home and mounting shows in various spaces around the city. Schuette helped shepherd the establishment of the permanent space and curated the current season of programs, one populated with the provocative performance artists first presented in San Diego back in the '80s when Schuette launched Sushi. In fact, Schuette has been credited with giving San Diego’s arts scene an international reputation during the 80s heyday of performance art, providing a home to artists like Guillermo Gómez-Peña, Karen Finley and even Whoopi Goldberg.
Sushi board member Indra Gardiner described Schuette's dismissal as "less than ideal." The board hopes to begin a search for a permanent executive director with the help of a grant from the Parker Foundation.
Ghost Who Walks
February 27, 2009 at 03:59 AM
It gets worse. I heard that Silverton suggested Lynn take out a mortgage on her home for income.
At least we all now know why the board chose a housefly for their logo.
SD Art Lover
February 28, 2009 at 09:46 PM
To suggest that the current change in leadership was anything but professional is unfortunate in my opinion. I have had a long-standing relationship with sushi as a former performer and avid volunteer since the mid '90s. I have always known sushi to place SD independent art and culture above and beyond any individual needs or preferences.
With that said, it is my understanding that when Lynn agreed to come back and take on a leadership role, it was only to be until December 08. As one who worries about the voice of independent art in San Diego -- I am relieved to see she graciously agreed to stay on even longer, to help the organization settle back into its old home. For her kind service I know we should all be grateful.
It's no secret as to the state of the economy and how the private and public sectors are suffering at this time. I respect the fact that the Board is showing fiscal responsibility to do what they can to ensure the continued longevity of an organization and protect the voice of artists that we otherwise would not have access to, or afford to participate, in San Diego. I applaud their responsibility to the artists and community and feel even more confident to continue to make donations. If they are willing to sacrifice -- then I can too, and give up my daily latte for two weeks to renew my membership in April!
