Which Art World Power Players Are Facing Fallout From the Epstein Files?
Artnet News
by Sarah CasconeFebruary 19, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The release of Jeffrey Epstein's files has sent shockwaves through the art world, with several prominent figures stepping down from influential roles due to their ties to the disgraced financier. Among those implicated are Thomas Pritzker, former board chair of the Art Institute of Chicago, who resigned as executive chairman of Hyatt Hotels after being linked to Epstein in newly unsealed documents. Pritzker acknowledged his "terrible judgment" in maintaining contact with Epstein and Maxwell, including facilitating a trip for Epstein's last girlfriend. Similarly, Jack Lang, president of L’Institut du Monde Arab, also resigned following revelations about his connections to Epstein.
The art world's entanglement with global wealth and power has made it particularly vulnerable to the fallout from Epstein's network. Other notable figures implicated include collector John Phelan, New York Academy of Art board chair Eileen Guggenheim, and artists Andres Serrano and Jeff Koons. These individuals now face heightened scrutiny over their associations with Epstein, even though inclusion in the files does not necessarily imply wrongdoing.
The broader implications for the art world are significant. The resignations highlight the need for greater accountability among collectors, museum leaders, and arts figures. Institutions are under pressure to reassess relationships with donors and advisors, potentially leading to changes in board compositions and funding sources. This shift could reshape the power dynamics within the sector, fostering a more ethical and transparent art ecosystem.
For readers interested in art, this story underscores the importance of ethical practices in the industry. It raises questions about how museums and galleries balance donor relationships with their mission to serve the public good. The fallout from Epstein's files serves as a cautionary tale about the risks of unchecked influence in the arts world and the need for greater transparency in dealings with powerful patrons.
The ongoing investigations and resignations promise to bring lasting changes to the art world, potentially leading to a more accountable and equitable sector. As institutions grapple with the consequences of their ties to Epstein, the focus on ethical practices is likely to intensify, shaping the future of art leadership and patronage.
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Originally published on Artnet News on 2/19/2026