Cheryl McGinnis

In the vibrant tapestry of New York City’s art ecosystem, where curiosity sparks innovation and observation unlocks worlds, Cheryl McGinnis stands as a beacon of curatorial wisdom and educational empowerment. With over two decades immersed in the art world as a gallerist, curator, and visionary educator, Cheryl has masterfully bridged the realms of contemporary expression and lifelong learning.

Her journey began in the salons of Chinese Contemporary art, where she curated intimate exhibitions that transformed passive viewing into dynamic dialogues between artists and audiences—fostering cross-cultural exchanges that revealed art not merely as aesthetic, but as living evidence of history, philosophy, and human connection.

As the founder of Cheryl McGinnis Projects and the groundbreaking “Looking is Learning” program, she has dedicated herself to nurturing the next generation of thinkers. This initiative invites students from ages 8 through high school—often from underserved communities or those with learning differences—to explore museums, parks, and cultural artifacts in NYC, from the Metropolitan Museum to Central Park.

Through guided observations and collaborative discussions, Cheryl cultivates visual literacy, self-confidence, and interdisciplinary insights, blending art with science, history, and literature. Her approach, honed through collaborations with artists like papercutting expert Song Xin, emphasizes discovery over rote knowledge, turning every glance into a gateway for personal growth and global awareness. Fiscally sponsored by the New York Foundation for the Arts, the program offers scholarships and virtual sessions via Zoom, ensuring accessibility in an ever-evolving world.

As Secretary for Bitcoin for the Arts, Cheryl brings her unparalleled network and passion for inclusive creativity to champion a new era of patronage. In a landscape where traditional funding often stifles innovation, she envisions Bitcoin as the uncensorable brushstroke that empowers artists to thrive independently—much like her programs empower young minds to see beyond the surface.

Cheryl’s work reminds us that art is not a luxury but a vital force for sovereignty, and in the Bitcoin age, it’s the key to unlocking boundless potential for creators everywhere. Her commitment to “living with art” aligns seamlessly with our mission: fostering a decentralized renaissance where observation, education, and sound money converge to illuminate the human spirit.