For over two decades, Helen Toomer has been dedicated to supporting and uplifting artists through her leadership and creation of large-scale events, exhibitions and spaces.
She is the founder of several art initiatives, including STONELEAF RETREAT, an artist residency focused on womxn and families; upbringing, a new project space in Kingston, NY; UPSTATE ART WEEKEND (UAW), an annual event that unites hundreds organizations across the Hudson Valley; and upstate open studios (uos), she also co-founded Art Mamas Alliance, a support network for parents in the arts.
Previously, Toomer served as director of Photofairs New York, Artists in Residence in Everglades, the IFPDA Print Fair, Collective Design Fair, and PULSE Contemporary Art Fair. She co-founded and ran the contemporary art gallery toomer labzda in New York City, and has lectured at institutions including Arts University Bournemouth, Fashion Institute of Technology, Sotheby’s Institute of Art, and Winchester School of Art.
Toomer was a juror for the 2024 Bermuda Biennial and currently serves on the advisory committees of The Dorsky Museum and Baxter St at the Camera Club of New York.