Claude Smith is an arts professional based in Albuquerque, NM. He previously served as Operations Director at 516 ARTS and during his tenure, worked extensively to support artists and exhibition production since 2010. From 2016-2023 he oversaw the Fulcrum Fund, a partner in the regional regranting program of the Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts where he facilitated the distribution of over $725,000 in new project-related support to more than 300 New Mexico-based artists. Previous curatorial projects at 516 ARTS include 21st Century Cyphers (2019); Karl Hofmann: In the Balance (2017); Off the Charts and Beau Carey: Rise (both 2015).
He has written essays and articles for various publications including the New American Paintings blog, Edible New Mexico and Arid Journal among others. He holds bachelor’s degrees in art history and biology from the University of New Mexico and currently serves as the Public Art Program Coordinator for New Mexico Arts.
