Evans Richardson IV, the Chief-of-Staff of the Studio Museum in Harlem and the Chair of the American Alliance of Museums’ Accreditation Commission, passed away on Sunday, April 30, 2023 at the age of 43. His death was announced by the Studio Museum in a statement that expressed “deep sorrow and profound gratitude” for his life and work. The cause of his death has not been disclosed publicly.
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A Brilliant Scholar and a Passionate Advocate for African American Art
Evans Richardson was born on April 24, 1980 in St. Louis, Missouri. He attended Westminster Christian Academy, where he excelled academically and developed a love for literature and art. He graduated from Columbia University in New York with a Bachelor’s degree in English Language and Literature, and then pursued a Master of Arts degree in English and African American Studies at Yale University.
He joined the Studio Museum in Harlem in 2010, the nation’s preeminent institution dedicated to the work of African American artists. As the museum’s Chief-of-Staff, he led a team that oversaw a moment of unprecedented growth for the 55-year old institution. Evans’ accomplishments included co-management of a historic and successful multi-million dollar capital fund campaign to support the construction of a new 82,000 square foot building. He also played a key role in developing and implementing the museum’s strategic plan, vision, and values.
In 2021, Evans was elected Chair of the American Alliance of Museums’ Accreditation Commission, the body that sets standards and best practices for museums across the country. As Chair of the Commission, he aligned museum accreditation with a focus on diversity and access for the communities they serve. He was also a member of several other professional organizations and boards, such as the Association of Art Museum Curators, the New York City Cultural Institutions Group, and the Yale Alumni Association.
A Beloved Friend and a Generous Mentor
Evans Richardson was not only a respected leader in the museum world, but also a beloved friend and a generous mentor to many. He was known for his kindness, humor, intelligence, and creativity. He had a passion for music, poetry, gardening, and cooking. He shared his beautiful home in Olivebridge, New York with his partner Sufjan Stevens, a renowned singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist.
Evans’ death has left a huge void in the hearts of his family, friends, colleagues, and admirers. He is survived by his father and mother, Evans and Betty Richardson (nee: Jones), as well as many relatives and friends. A visitation for Evans was held on Wednesday, May 17, 2023 at Alexander – White – Mullen Funeral Home in St. Ann, Missouri, followed by a funeral service and burial at Mount Lebanon Cemetery.
Many tributes have poured in from across the museum sector and beyond, expressing grief and admiration for Evans’ life and legacy. Nico Muhly, a composer and friend of Evans, wrote on Instagram: “There are no words to express adequately the depth of our loss and our gratitude for his life.”
Evans Richardson IV was a visionary leader who made a lasting impact on the museum world and the field of African American art. He will be remembered as a brilliant scholar, a passionate advocate, a beloved friend, and a generous mentor. He will be dearly missed by all who knew him.
According to Reddit, Evans Richardson IV cause of death has not been disclosed publicly yet.
