NEW YORK, NY.- Independent Curators International has appointed Manuela Paz as Director of Development and Strategic Planning. She will begin her role on March 21. Paz comes to the role with a wide range of relationships in the contemporary art world, and a strong background in art fair management, with over a decade of experience in international arts events.

Starting as an assistant for the Armory Show, Paz grew with the company over the course of eight years, becoming the Director of VIP Relations. She subsequently transitioned into the position of Membership and Special Programs Director for the New Art Dealers Alliance (NADA), where she developed year-round programming, including collection tours, talks, dinners, studio visits, and gallery tours. Paz has a proven track record in shaping meaningful experiences for today's leading arts patrons and collectors, while providing emerging and established galleries with a platform for exposure and growth.

"The Board of Trustees and staff of ICI are thrilled to welcome Manuela to our team," said Renaud Proch, Executive Director of ICI. "Her energy and experience will help further ICI's mission to advance curatorial practice, foster international engagement, and promote broad access to contemporary art everywhere."

As Director of Development and Strategic Planning, Paz will guide ICI's partnership cultivation and growth to extend ICI's support base and the international reach of its programs. She will advance development strategy to ensure ICI's continued service to the curatorial community in the organization's fifth decade.

Paz commented, "I have closely followed the work of ICI for many years, as a collaborator, colleague, and friend. I'm thrilled to begin this new position and look forward to working with ICI's Board and staff to further the organization's unique mission in support of curators around the world."