Lily Gilston

Program Director

lily@cfeva.org

Lily is a Philadelphia-based arts administrator, curator, and visual artist whose practice is deeply rooted in the city’s vibrant and diverse arts community. Her curatorial work explores themes of connection, place, and visibility, with a collaborative and artist-centered approach that has been shaped by her engagement with artists across Philadelphia.

As Program Director at the Center for Emerging Visual Artists (CFEVA), Lily coordinates all efforts around the annual Philadelphia Open Studio Tours (POST), one of the region’s largest visual arts events. She also curates exhibitions and fosters meaningful support for Artist Members and Visual Artist Fellowship recipients, strengthening the city’s creative infrastructure through community partnerships and artist-driven initiatives.

Lily’s curatorial projects emphasize interdisciplinary research and process-driven work. Most recently, Ripple Effect at Chimaera Gallery continued her ongoing collaboration with artist Elizabeth Mackie, focusing on environmental themes through handmade papermaking and expanded media installations.

In addition to her curatorial and administrative roles, Lily maintains an evolving studio practice. Her work is included in the Permanent Collection of The College of New Jersey, where she has participated in solo and group exhibitions in 2019, 2020, and 2021. Lily holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts from The College of New Jersey.