See the studio artists’ works during “Creative Corridors,” opening May 31
From: Aiken
Lives: James Island
Works: Executive director of Redux Contemporary Art Center since November 2023
Family: Husband, Matt, and dogs, Daisy and Smooch
Favorite Artists: James McNeill Whistler, Gerhard Richter, Jeff Koons, and Louise Bourgeois
Hobbies: Bonsai, painting, paddleboarding, playing cello
Allan Bunch, who took over as executive director of Redux Contemporary Art Center in November 2023, is not afraid of change.
After attending the University of South Carolina, Bunch began his career as a classically trained chef, then transitioned to front-of-house at restaurants and bakeries in North Carolina. He later discovered a talent for marketing and branding. When his husband Matt, a chemist, took a job opportunity in Lawrence, Kansas, Bunch became the vice president of communication and development for a nonprofit that focused on suicide prevention. He flourished, as did the organization, growing from $250,000 in revenue to $1.3 million during his tenure.
When the pandemic hit, it was time for another change. The couple was tired of being cold and wanted to be closer to family. With Bunch growing up in Aiken and spending summers on Edisto, the Lowcountry seemed to be calling. He and Matt relocated to James Island, and Bunch continued working with nonprofits, serving as the development and stewardship officer at Coastal Community Foundation for two and a half years. At Redux, the self-described “enthusiastic crafter” will shepherd the 22-year-old organization’s Bridge to the Future fundraising campaign. Here, Bunch shares how he fell in love with the contemporary art center.
CM: Why were you attracted by the position at Redux?
AB: When I came across the opening, I thought, ‘This would be such a cool job.’ I went to open studios after the second interview and fell madly in love. My interest turned into ‘This will be my job.’ I love the space, the energy, and the artists. You can’t not fall in love with this place.
CM: What’s your personal relationship to art—are you an artist?
AB: I don’t call myself an artist because I feel it diminishes the role our artists play. I do paint for fun and self-care, and my husband is an artist.
CM: What role does contemporary art play in the Charleston community?
AB: It moves the conversation forward. One of my favorite quotes is, ‘Art is a catalyst for advocating healing and uniting.’ What better place do we have to heal and unite than Redux?
CM: What do you want to accomplish as executive director?
AB: More outreach into places where art isn’t seen, discussed, or validated. I want us to get out of the building more and into the communities, and get more communities into the building. I hope we can introduce people to life experiences, and I want to create more opportunities for them to find their people. I found my people here! They’re the coolest and kindest, and this is such a happy place.
CM: Is there anything that surprised you about your new position?
AB: How easy it’s been to acclimate. Our board has been incredibly supportive. They’ve given me every resource I need to be successful
If you go: “Creative Corridors,” the annual Redux Studio Artists Exhibition, runs May 31 through August 10. Visit reduxstudios.org.
