The fashion industry and the world at large were devastated to learn of Ivan Bart’s departure on the gloomy morning of October 29, 2023. A mainstay of the modeling industry, Bart has spent an incredible thirty years at IMG Models, influencing numerous models’ careers and expanding the parameters of inclusion and diversity. His resignation as President of IMG Models signaled the end of an era, yet his influence on the business is still felt today. The cause of death has not been disclosed.
The shocking news of Ivan Bart’s passing broke on social media, leaving a trail of disbelief and tributes from those who had been touched by his transformative work. Diane Anderson-Minshall, a prominent figure in the LGBTQ+ community, expressed her sadness, noting that Bart had championed transgender models like Hari Nef and “plus-size” models such as Ashley Graham. She wrote, “I feel like I’m an obituary writer these days. But I just got news that Ivan Bart has died. No news reports yet, so awaiting confirmation but assuming it’s true so RIP.” Lono Brazil added, “Sad News Coming Out Of NYC Tonight @ivanmbart Our Fearless President & Friend To All Has Passed. May His Blessed Soul Rest In Eternal Glory.”
At 59 years old, Ivan Bart had become a legend in the fashion industry. He had served as the President of IMG Models, a leading global modeling agency, where he played a pivotal role in reshaping the modeling landscape. Bart’s contributions to the industry went far beyond standard expectations. He was a true visionary, known for his relentless commitment to pushing the boundaries of what it meant to be a model in the 21st century.
One of Bart’s most remarkable achievements was his dedication to promoting diversity and inclusivity within the modeling world. He was instrumental in giving opportunities to transgender models and “plus-size” models, challenging the traditional beauty standards and proving that beauty exists in all shapes, sizes, and genders. His impact was felt far beyond the runway, as he worked tirelessly to dismantle stereotypes and celebrate individuality.
Earlier this year, in March, Bart announced a significant transition in his career. He left his role as President of IMG Models to become a senior adviser at the agency, according to a news release from its parent company, Endeavor. Mark Shapiro, the President of Endeavor, acknowledged Bart’s profound influence on the modeling industry, stating, “Ivan has quite literally changed the shape and face of the modeling industry.” Shapiro also expressed the organization’s honor in continuing to benefit from Bart’s visionary contributions in his new role.
Mr. Bart’s departure from the presidency of IMG Models was a bittersweet moment for the industry. While he left behind an irreplaceable legacy, the agency was quick to assure that his mission and vision would live on. His exit was part of a series of organizational changes at Endeavor, which had recently welcomed Susan Plagemann, a former Chief Business Officer at Condé Nast, to lead the newly formed division known as WME Fashion. IMG Models, now under the WME Fashion umbrella, would be led by Jeni Rose and Kate Stirling, who would carry forward the torch of Bart’s commitment to diversity and inclusion.
Bart’s new role as a senior adviser at IMG Models promised to keep his passion for discovering new talent alive. He expressed his ongoing commitment to identifying and nurturing the next generation of models, reflecting his unwavering belief in the potential of the fashion industry to continue evolving and embracing change. “I want to keep finding great talent,” Bart said, encapsulating his enduring enthusiasm for the world of fashion and his dedication to fostering emerging talent.
Ivan Bart’s journey in the fashion world was nothing short of extraordinary. Over his thirty-year tenure at IMG Models, he became a mentor, a visionary, and an advocate for those who were marginalized or overlooked. His work paved the way for a more inclusive and accepting modeling industry, breaking down the traditional barriers that had confined it for so long.
One of his most significant achievements was his support of transgender models like Hari Nef. Through Bart’s guidance and advocacy, models like Nef found a platform to showcase their talent, while challenging the industry to embrace diversity. Bart’s efforts extended beyond casting decisions; he was an ally for the LGBTQ+ community, actively working to create an industry that celebrated the beauty of every individual.
Ashley Graham, a well-known “plus-size” model, was another beneficiary of Ivan Bart’s groundbreaking vision. Bart recognized that true beauty had no size limit and gave Graham the platform to become a celebrated figure in the modeling world. His unrelenting pursuit of inclusivity has had a profound impact on the industry, making it more reflective of the diverse world we live in.
While Ivan Bart has left an indelible mark on the modeling industry, his legacy will endure through the countless lives he touched and the transformations he brought about. He showed the world that fashion is not confined to a single mold, and beauty comes in many forms. The fashion industry owes a debt of gratitude to Ivan Bart for his visionary leadership, and his impact will continue to inspire future generations.
In the wake of his passing, the fashion world mourns the loss of a true pioneer, a fearless advocate, and an irreplaceable leader. Ivan Bart’s contributions to the modeling industry will forever be etched in its history, and his legacy will continue to shape the future of fashion, where diversity, inclusivity, and acceptance are paramount. As we remember the remarkable career of Ivan Bart, we also honor his unwavering commitment to a more diverse and beautiful world.