The fashion world is mourning the loss of Ivan Bart, who passed away over the weekend at the age of 60. Bart was the former president of IMG Models, one of the most influential and powerful modeling agencies in the world. He was known for his visionary leadership, his passion for diversity and inclusion, and his impact on the careers of many iconic models.
A trailblazer in the fashion industry
Bart started his career at IMG Models in 1994 as a senior vice president. He rose through the ranks to become the president of the agency in 2014, after it merged with WME. Under his guidance, IMG Models represented some of the biggest names in the industry, such as Lauren Hutton, Carolyn Murphy, Stephanie Seymour, Gigi and Bella Hadid, Hailey Bieber, Alton Mason, and Wisdom Kaye.
Bart was not only a successful businessman, but also a visionary who changed the face and shape of the modeling industry. He was a champion for diverse casting and inclusion, breaking down barriers for models of different sizes, ages, races, backgrounds, and genders. He believed that fashion imagery could be a tool for social change and empowerment.
Some of the models who benefited from Bart’s support and mentorship include Alek Wek, Hari Nef, Precious Lee, Zach Miko, Quannah Chasinghorse, and Paloma Elsesser. Bart also helped launch the careers of plus-size models such as Ashley Graham, who graced the cover of British Vogue along with Jill Kortleve and Lee in April 2023.
Bart was also a pioneer in recognizing the power of social media in giving a voice to models and effecting social change. He encouraged his models to use their platforms to express their opinions, advocate for causes they cared about, and connect with their fans.
A sudden and shocking Ivan Bart’s death
The news of Bart’s death was announced on his official Instagram account on October 29, 2023. The post featured a black-and-white photo of Bart with a caption that read: “Our world has lost one of the greats. Ivan Bart, 1963-2023.” No further details were given about the cause or circumstances of his death.
The news came as a shock to many in the fashion community, who expressed their grief and condolences on social media. Many models, designers, stylists, makeup artists, and industry leaders paid tribute to Bart’s legacy and shared their memories of working with him.
Gigi Hadid wrote: “I love you Ivan. Thank you for everything you did for me and for so many others. You were a light in this world and I will miss you forever.” Hailey Bieber commented: “Love you Ivan. You were one of a kind.” Ashley Graham said: “Ivan Bart changed my life. He saw something in me that no one else did and gave me a chance to shine. He was more than a boss, he was a friend and a mentor. I will always be grateful for his kindness and wisdom.”
Zac Posen, Christian Cowan, Pat McGrath, Rachel Zoe, Karen Elson, Shanina Shaik, and many others also shared their heartfelt messages and photos with Bart.
Mark Shapiro, the president and COO of Endeavor (the parent company of IMG Models), released a statement praising Bart’s achievements and contributions to the fashion industry. He said: “During the course of three decades at IMG Models, Ivan quite literally changed the shape and face of the modeling industry from within. His relentless pursuit for diversity and inclusion challenged fashion’s gatekeepers and created household names whose omnipresence has inspired generations.”
Shapiro also recalled how Bart argued for more representation and diversity in Victoria’s Secret’s annual runway show. He said: “He was the voice before there was a voice. He was courageous. He saw beauty in all its forms.”
A lasting legacy
Ivan Bart’s death is a huge loss for the fashion world. He was a leader who used his position to effect positive social change and inspire many people. His influence will continue to be felt in the world of fashion for years to come.
He will be remembered as a legendary figure who revolutionized the industry and touched many lives. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, colleagues, and models.
ncG1vNJzZmivp6x7r7HWrKynspmle6S7zGiYq6yZmLmmv46irZqmXZeus8CMnJiuq5VivKd5w56YraBdp7K3scClnJ1lp52utXnHmqepnZ6asW7Azmagpp9dorylscusZJ6wXaW%2Fpr%2FInZynrF8%3D