The fashion world was in mourning on Monday when news spread that Ivan Bart — the former president of IMG Models — had passed way at 60.
A post appeared on Bart’s Instagram account over the weekend with an image of the power agent and the caption, “Our world has lost one of the greats. Ivan Bart, 1963-2023.”
WWD reported on Monday that Bart died Friday after a short illness, and that his passing was confirmed by IMG parent company, Endeavor.
Bart was known for guiding the careers of models including Bella and Gigi Hadid, Kate Moss, Naomi Campbell, Ashley Graham, Maye Musk and Hari Nef, among many more.
Bart first joined IMG in 1994, and was elevated to president in 2014. He exited the role earlier this year to become an advisor.
There has been an outpouring of condolences from fashion pros in the wake of his death.
Graham posted on Instagram Stories of Bart: “Your impact has moved mountains and broken down so many walls for myself and so many others… I can’t thank you enough for the opportunities you have created for me, the time you invested in me, and the help you have given to navigate such a harsh industry.”
Campbell wrote of Bart’s death: “Shocked and saddened… you were such a positive force, and loyal friend. You will be so missed… my deepest condolences to your family and loved ones and chosen family.”
Also offering condolences were models Cindy Crawford, Erin Wasson, Hailey Bieber, Emily Ratajkowski and Lily Aldridge, plus stylist Rachel Zoe and British Vogue editor Edward Enninful.
New York Fashion Week pioneer Fern Mallis commented on Instagram: “This is impossible to process. He was one of my very best friends. What a tragic loss. RIP dearest Ivan I loved you so much.”
Vogue’s global talent casting director, Ignacio Murillo, told the fashion mag: “Ivan Bart changed the landscape of the modeling industry in so many ways. He saw people and recognized their potential. He made the modeling industry more inclusive.”
He also pointed out, “When Ford closed their Plus Size division, IMG signed Ashely Graham, who became the first curve model on the cover of American Vogue. He expanded the idea of who can be a model, signing May Musk at the age of 68 and by supporting the careers of transgender models and those with disabilities, as well as advocating for racial diversity on the runway and in advertising.”
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