David Collens Oral History
Video directed by Graham Mason © Storm King Art Center, 2018
David Collens joined Storm King in 1974 and became Director and Chief Curator in 1978 [1978-2021]. Continuing in this role, Collens has worked hands-on with artists to develop exhibitions, and has grown and shaped Storm King’s Collection through strategic acquisitions and site-specific commissions. In this multi-session interview, Collens recounts how relationships with artists were established, maintained, and strengthened over many years through such activities as studio visits, and describes ongoing discussions about creative approaches to outdoor sculpture conservation. Collens also describes the many changes he has witnessed at Storm King, including long-term landscaping projects, and increases in visitors under the leadership of current President, John Stern.
Interview Transcript
Conducted by
Sarah DziedzicInterview Date
January 23, 2018, July 18, 2018, July 31, 2018, August 13, 2018, August 22, 2018Conditions governing access
The transcript is open for research use.Conditions governing reproduction
Please contact Storm King Art Center Archives for conditions governing reproduction.Artworks Discussed
Alexander Liberman
Adonai, 1970–71 (refabricated 2000)
Ursula von Rydingsvard
Luba, 2009–10
Andy Goldsworthy
Storm King Wall, 1997–98
Alice Aycock
Three-Fold Manifestation II, 1987 (refabricated 2006)
