San Francisco, CA — October 6, 2025 — It is with profound gratitude that Southern Exposure (SoEx), a 51-year-old artist-centered nonprofit, announces that Artistic Director Valerie Imus will depart the organization in Spring 2026 after 15 years of impactful leadership.

Val’s tenure has been marked by bold, experimental programming and a steadfast commitment to artistic freedom. Most recently, she has helped guide SoEx through a period of significant challenge, restoring organizational stability and putting the nonprofit back on strong footing for its next chapter.

“Val’s vision, commitment, and care for SoEx have been transformative,” said Dan Toffey, Board Chair. “Her unwavering dedication to artistic freedom has shaped SoEx into a space where artists can take risks, challenge conventions, and make urgent, experimental work. Thanks to her leadership, Southern Exposure is well positioned to thrive for the next 50 years. We are immensely grateful that Val will remain through our 2026 Benefit Auction to ensure a smooth, thoughtful transition and to help welcome our next Executive Director.”

With Val’s support, the Board of Directors has initiated a search for SoEx’s next Executive Director, who will lead the organization under a renewed single-director model. This new leader will be charged with carrying forward SoEx’s legacy of championing bold, community-centered, and risk-taking art while charting a vision for the organization’s future.

Applications for the Executive Director position are open now and due by October 20, 2025. The full job description and application instructions can be found here.

“This is a moment of optimism and renewal,” said Val. “I am proud of what we’ve accomplished together and of how SoEx has continued to stand for artistic freedom during a time when creative voices are under pressure. I’m excited to help ensure SoEx is set up for success as a new leader steps in to guide the organization into its next chapter.”

With thanks,
The Southern Exposure Board of Directors