Ian Stallings is a dynamic leader and founder of ISFAD Studio, with a proven track record of cultivating strategic relationships and fostering sustainable growth across the arts, nonprofit, business, and academic sectors. With over 15 years of experience, Ian has led his business to global success, increasing revenue by 100% annually for a decade and pioneering a hybrid remote work model to enhance productivity and employee engagement. Passionate about the arts and community development, Ian founded the Wabash International Artist Residency (WIAR) to provide national and international artists with the time and space to explore and create their work in rural Indiana, while advancing Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) initiatives. His leadership has also supported various philanthropic efforts, raising over $1 million annually for organizations such as the Glide Memorial Church Food Bank, Lambda Legal Fund, and Access Institute.
In addition to his role as CEO, Ian has made significant contributions as a Board Member for the Eli and Edythe Broad Art Museum and as a strategic advisor to numerous organizations. His expertise spans business development, community engagement, strategic marketing, and fundraising, with notable achievements including securing a $100K grant for historic building restorations and producing a short film to promote revitalization efforts. Ian's work has garnered widespread recognition, including an Honorary Doctorate of Arts from Kendall College of Art & Design and numerous awards for his contributions to the arts and community. .
ISFAD Studio is a high-end, full-service interior design, development and city planning firm working internationally. Renowned designer Ian Stallings has nearly two decades of experience with residential and commercial projects around the globe — including San Francisco, London, Los Angeles, Nashville, New York, Michigan, Indiana, Montana, and in China.
Gladden Space stands as a dynamic art gallery and sanctuary for contemporary art, centrally located within Lansing's lively cultural enclave in the historic Old Town neighborhood. With a commitment to showcasing diverse and innovative artistic expressions, it serves as a beacon for both established and emerging artists. In the ever-evolving narrative of Gladden Space, every visit is a revelation, a testament to the ephemeral nature of art itself. The collection breathes, morphs, and adapts, unfurling fresh narratives and dimensions with each rotation. But it doesn't stop there. Gladden Space extends an invitation to actively participate in this ongoing artistic dialogue. Engrossing exhibitions, thought-provoking artist dialogues, and enlightening events foster a dynamic community of art and design devotees.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
Ian Stallings' community development work includes the creation of an artist residency and art gallery, providing a platform for both emerging and established artists. The residency offers a space for creativity and collaboration, allowing artists to engage with the local community and create meaningful work. The accompanying art gallery showcases these creations, making art more accessible and fostering cultural exchange. Through this initiative, Ian Stallings has contributed to the growth of local culture, creativity, and community engagement.
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Wabash International Artist Residency
The Wabash International Artist Residency (WIAR) is an artist-in-residency program in Indiana, founded in 2019 by Ian Stallings. Ian is an interior designer, developer, city planner and artist working internationally.
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Revitalization Project
In 2013, Ian Stallings and his cousin Justin dreamed of revitalizing Lagro, Indiana, a small town struggling with economic decline and abandoned spaces. Inspired by the transformation of Marfa, Texas, they envisioned using Lagro’s empty buildings to create an artist residency and gallery, bringing creativity and culture to the area. Ian originated a strategic plan to revitalize Lagro, the second oldest city in Indiana (pop. 349), which led to the formation of the Lagro Canal Foundation to restore vacant and dilapidated historic spaces.
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Art Gallery
Gladden Space stands as a dynamic art gallery and sanctuary for contemporary art, centrally located within Lansing's lively cultural enclave in the historic Old Town neighborhood. With a commitment to showcasing diverse and innovative artistic expressions, it serves as a beacon for both established and emerging artists.
