Artist with an international, interdisciplinary practice focused on developing students' individual voices and skills.

Jan and I know each other through Cornell University, where I teach in the art department. Jan came to us as a visiting mentor for our MFA candidates last year and he was extraordinary. His knowledge, empathy, and critical thinking left an indelible mark on our department. Students frequently recall the insights and mentorship they received from Jan while he was here, and we all hope he can visit us again soon.

I have known Jan Baracz for forty years now, and can attest to his broad knowledge, communication skills and insight. I would have loved to have had Jan as my art tutor.

Jan Baracz is a brilliant artist, a perceptive listener, and a generous mentor. As a visiting critic for MFA students at Cornell University, he engaged students in conversations around the idea of “learning to unlearn.” They were captivated by his approach and deeply appreciative of his thoughtful feedback, curiosity, and dedication. His ability to listen, ask unexpected questions, and encourage independent thinking makes him an exceptional art tutor and mentor for young people. He is someone capable not only of teaching, but of awakening curiosity and independent thinking.

Jan is a man of impeccable taste, discretion and a deep understanding of art. We ran through my recent drawings, with him providing invaluable feedback -- highlighting what I was doing well and should do more of, gently pointing out what I should do less of, and suggesting exercises to help with technical matters that needed work. He brought a lifetime of artistic experience from the highest levels to my admittedly amateur output, taking it absolutely seriously without a trace or condescension or flattery. No matter where you are in your journey as an artist, Jan's opinions and instruction will help you along your path, while trusting your own vision of where you want to go.

I’ve known Jan for over ten years, mostly through gatherings of fellow artists. Even before I saw his brilliant work, I was struck by the depth of his intelligence and imagination. He’s of a rare breed that never settles for easy answers. And yet he can talk about even the most complex ideas in a way that anyone can understand—and feel. I can’t imagine a better teacher or tutor. I only wish I’d had a mentor like Jan when I was starting on my journey.

I have known Jan Baracz for over forty years and have long admired his art, his insight, and his remarkable ability to communicate ideas. He combines a discerning critical eye with genuine encouragement. He knows how to create the kind of supportive environment in which artistic confidence, curiosity, and skill can grow. I would recommend him warmly to anyone looking for a thoughtful and inspiring art teacher and thinker.

Elzbieta Matynia | The New School for Social Research
Professor of Sociology and Liberal Studies
Director, Transregional Center for Democratic Studies

Baracz is a first-rate artist, a great listener, and an astute communicator. Smart, witty, articulate and engaging. Students cherish his guidance. We have kMnown each other for over 20 years. I recommend him wholeheartedly.

I met Jan a few years ago. His feedback on my work-in-progress always leads to better work. Jan's knowledge of the art world, from contemporary to historic references, is vast, and he always brings up relevant references or shows I should see. Sitting in conversation with him is truly a gift.

Jan's multidisciplinary acumen extends decades. While his encyclopedic knowledge of art may become intimidating in the hands of a lesser pedagogue, Jan teaches and informs through a lens of humility, authenticity, and integrity. His experience in the art world provides a platform for many students to flourish. Jan's strengths lie in a wealth of multiple mediums spanning videography, sculpture, photography, and many other vehicles conducive to making the internal world externalized. Jan is an asset to the art community, and would remain as such in any setting, academic or otherwise.