The Parcus Academy
Parcus Academy stands as a prominent institution committed to advancing the depth and breadth of contemporary artistic practice. Born from the distinguished Parcus Gallery, the Academy is dedicated to fostering artistic excellence through mentorship, research, and the curation of significant artistic endeavors.
With a focus on cultivating both the technical and intellectual aspects of art, Parcus Academy provides an environment where individuals can challenge conventional boundaries, engage in profound dialogue, and resonate across cultures and generations. Our mission is not merely to support the development of individual talent, but to contribute to the global conversation on the transformative power of the arts.
At Parcus Academy, we embrace the belief that art is a force that shapes societies, ignites thought, and inspires change. Through strategic collaborations and carefully curated initiatives, we aim to provide opportunities that extend beyond the confines of traditional artistic practice, elevating the conversation surrounding contemporary art.
🔶 Members
Robert L. Parcus
Robert L. Parcus is a distinguished gallerist, curator, collector, and art entrepreneur whose dedication to contemporary art has shaped the careers of numerous artists worldwide. As the founder and director of Parcus Gallery, he has created a platform that champions artistic excellence and provides artists with unparalleled visibility in the international art market.
With years of experience in the art world, Parcus has curated and organized high-profile exhibitions across Europe, fostering an environment where creativity and artistic expression thrive. His keen eye for talent and deep understanding of the art industry have established him as a trusted figure among artists, collectors, and institutions alike.
As a passionate art collector, Parcus not only appreciates the aesthetic and historical value of art but also actively contributes to the dialogue surrounding its evolution. He has always sought to extract from the limbo unconventional and out-of-the-box concepts that challenge norms and offer new directions to positively influence the art market. His approach is driven by the belief that innovation and fresh perspectives are essential in shaping a more dynamic and sustainable art ecosystem.
Beyond his work as a gallerist and collector, Parcus is the visionary behind Parcus Academy, a forum dedicated to fertilizing new insights, concepts, and values within the art world. Bringing together some of the most fertile minds as distinguished fellows, the Academy serves as a hub for intellectual exchange, fostering discussions that shape the future of contemporary art.
Robert Mountjoy
Member of the 21 Group of Artists (Devon – England) and has been a fervent supporter of the South West Academy. He was elected an academician in 2003 and served twelve years as a trustee and three years chair. In 2021 he was made an Honorary Academician.
Prof. Dr. Kenneth G Hay, BA, MA, Ph.d.
- Professor Emeritus of Contemporary Art Practice at the University of Leeds, UK.
- Visiting Professor of Aesthetics at Masaryk University, Brno, CZ.
- FRSA (Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts) UK.
- Fellow of the Cornaro Institute, Cyprus.
Education
- University College of Wales, Ph.D in “Italian Materialist Aesthetics 1860-1960”, (1982-90) (“Neapolitan Hegelians to Galvano Della Volpe”)
- Inverness Royal Academy 1967-73
- The University of Leeds 1973-77 – B.A Hons. in Fine Art
- Accademia di Belle Arti, Florence, Italy – (1978-80)
- University College of Wales, Aberystwyth, M.A. in Visual Art (1980-82)
- (Thesis: “The Concept of Transcendence: German Idealist & Materialist Aesthetics Baumgarten – Adorno”)
- University College of Wales, Ph.D in “Italian Materialist Aesthetics 1860-1960”, (1982-90) (“Neapolitan Hegelians to Galvano Della Volpe”)
Carlos Bracher
Carlos Bracher is a renowned Brazilian expressionist painter, known for his dynamic brushwork, rich textures, and vibrant colors. Inspired by Van Gogh and Baroque masters, his work captures landscapes, portraits, and historical themes, especially scenes from Ouro Preto.
With a career spanning over six decades, Bracher has exhibited internationally, portraying Brazilian icons like Carlos Drummond de Andrade and Tiradentes. His expressive style and deep cultural influence make him a key figure in Brazilian contemporary art.
Bracher continues to be a major force in Brazilian contemporary art, leaving an enduring legacy through his passionate and expressive approach to painting.
Irina Kupyrova
A Fellow Member of Parcus Gallery since 2017, Irina Kupyrova is a classically trained painter, a graduate of the Painting Faculty of the Kyiv State Academy of Fine Arts, an institution renowned for its rigorous academic approach to the visual arts.
For over 30 years, Kupyrova has been based in Prague, Czech Republic, where she plays an active role in the transmission of academic knowledge. In her Prague studio, she teaches drawing and painting, fostering an environment dedicated to technical refinement and critical artistic inquiry.
André Candreva
André Sanches Candreva is a researcher, writer, and cultural historian deeply committed to the arts and heritage preservation. Through his extensive literary work, he explores the intersections of history, music, and visual culture, contributing to anthologies, historical studies, and cultural publications. A member of several prestigious academic and artistic institutions, including the Academy of Sciences, Letters, and Arts of Congonhas and the Historical and Geographical Institute of Minas Gerais, he is dedicated to documenting Brazil’s artistic legacy, from Baroque influences to contemporary cultural expressions. His passion for storytelling and historical research bridges the past and present, ensuring that art remains a living testament to identity and tradition.
Alberto Moioli
Alberto Moioli is an esteemed journalist, art critic, and cultural director with a distinguished career dedicated to the promotion and analysis of contemporary art. His deep knowledge and keen critical eye have established him as a significant voice in the international art scene.
As the director of the Enciclopedia d’Arte Italiana, Moioli has played a crucial role in documenting and preserving Italy’s artistic heritage, highlighting both established and emerging artists. His work is recognized for its intellectual depth and insightful critiques, bringing new perspectives to the interpretation of contemporary artistic movements.
Beyond his editorial and curatorial endeavors, Moioli actively collaborates with galleries, institutions, and cultural organizations, contributing to exhibitions, publications, and conferences worldwide. His expertise and passion for the arts have made him a respected figure in the field, bridging the gap between artists, collectors, and the wider public.
🔶 Statutes
Article 1 – Introduction
The Parcus Academy is an exclusive initiative by Parcus Gallery, designed to bring together distinguished members of the contemporary art world, including artists, collectors, curators, critics, and intellectuals. The Academy serves as a platform for excellence, artistic dialogue, and professional networking within an elite circle.
Article 2 – Mission and Objectives
The mission of the Parcus Academy is to promote and sustain artistic excellence, foster critical discourse, and provide an exclusive platform for its members. The Academy pursues the following objectives:
- Recognition of Excellence: Establishing a prestigious circle of professionals dedicated to the advancement of contemporary art.
- Artistic Promotion: Offering members opportunities to exhibit, publish, and engage in critical discussions.
- Networking and Collaboration: Creating meaningful connections between artists, curators, collectors, and intellectuals.
- Educational Development: Providing mentorship, lectures, and research opportunities to enhance artistic knowledge.
Article 3 – Membership
- Eligibility
Membership is granted by invitation or application, subject to evaluation by the Parcus Academy board. Eligible candidates include:
- Renowned contemporary artists
- Established art collectors
- Professional curators
- Art critics and scholars
- Intellectuals and cultural figures with a strong commitment to the arts
- Admission Process
- Applications must be submitted along with a portfolio or professional credentials.
- A selection committee will review candidates based on artistic merit, contribution to the field, and alignment with the Academy’s mission.
- Selected members may be expected and welcome to make voluntary donations (à fonds perdus), to support the Academy’s initiatives.
Article 4 – Member Benefits
Members of the Parcus Academy shall receive the following exclusive benefits:
- Access to private exhibitions and events
- Participation in international exhibitions under the Parcus Academy banner
- Opportunities for publishing critical essays and research in Academy publications
- Priority consideration for jury and consulting roles within Parcus Gallery projects
- Exclusive networking and mentorship programs
Article 5 – Governance and Administration
- The Academy operates under the administrative structure of Parcus Gallery, maintaining an independent intellectual identity.
- A Board of Advisors, composed of senior Academy members, will oversee strategic direction and decision-making.
- Regular meetings and discussions will be held to ensure the continuous evolution of the Academy.
Article 6 – Expansion and Future Developments
The Parcus Academy aims to expand its influence by:
- Establishing prizes and awards recognizing outstanding contributions to contemporary art.
- Developing artist residency programs and collaborations with international institutions.
- Becoming a globally recognized institution, fostering artistic and intellectual excellence.
Final Provision: These statutes shall be subject to periodic review and amendments to ensure the ongoing development and relevance of the Parcus Academy.