Statements from Mayor de Blasio and DCLA Commissioner Finkelpearl

September 21, 2015

The de Blasio administration announced today that Department of Cultural Affairs Commissioner Tom Finkelpearl will take a leave of absence from the agency to treat a recently arisen health issue. Until he returns, DCLA Deputy Commissioner Edwin Torres will serve as Acting Commissioner.

Statement from Mayor Bill de Blasio:

“Tom Finkelpearl has helped bring the arts to New Yorkers across the five boroughs as Commissioner of the Department of Cultural Affairs, showing this City exactly what it means when we say ‘arts and culture are for everyone.’ Tom has been a strong and innovative leader, with a clear vision of how we can more equitably support and celebrate the arts throughout our city. From launching the diversity initiative to create a more inclusive and vibrant cultural community, to playing an instrumental role in providing free cultural memberships to all IDNYC card holders, Tom understands how the arts can help inspire and enrich all our lives. My thoughts are with him and his family as he takes time to focus on his health, and we look forward to welcoming him back after this period of recovery.”

Statement from Cultural Affairs Commissioner Tom Finkelpearl:

“It is a tremendous honor to serve as New York’s Cultural Affairs Commissioner under Mayor de Blasio, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to help lead this extraordinary department. Our colleagues throughout City government have embraced the power of the arts to enhance services and engage audiences, giving us the opportunity to collaborate on exciting new initiatives like expanding affordable housing and workspaces for artists, and placing artists-in-residence in city agencies. With Mayor de Blasio’s support, this administration has clearly demonstrated our commitment to New York’s creative community and its value to our neighborhoods. I have every confidence in my team’s ability to carry the Department’s vital projects forward while I take a leave of absence to focus on my recovery. I can’t wait to continue our work together when I return.”