Los Angeles - June 28th, 2019, Diane Allen is closing her iconic jewelry store 23rd street Jewelers in Santa Monica this summer and will focus on her work in the art world under the umbrella of Diane Allen Presents, where she curates and cultivates emerging artists and experiences. Diane Allen is a renowned creative entrepreneur, art collector, jeweler, innovator, philanthropist and true Renaissance woman. From yearning to be an artist in high school and college, when a teacher told her she wouldn't be able to survive in the art world, her passion grew and her fine jewelry business was born in 1981. An avid art collector, Diane Allen has collected art her entire life (including an early Andy Warhol) while supporting emerging artists.
“It's a real drive for me when I know that I can buy something to both encourage and support that artist and can make a difference in their career...Sometimes just the magic of connection and support can give wings to an artist struggling to be seen and heard.”
As Diane nears retirement, she is shifting gears and focusing on supporting the arts including serving on the Boards of the VIA Art Fund and Desert X. Diane is also Co-Chair Of Phase One Proudly hosting the annual Art vs Cancer event at Various Small Fires. As the Executive Vice Chair of PHASE ONE’s Board of Directors, Diane has helped raise over 20 million dollars for the organization dedicated to funding first round clinical cancer trials, and to date has enlisted a network of over 3,000 donors. Diane is also very passionate about implementing solutions for the national opioid addiction crisis. Diane has proudly founded Denver Recover Group with over seven clinics serving the opioid addicted population in LA and Denver. “We are currently serving more than 700 patients daily and providing both harm reduction and care during this current crisis”.
Diane loves making a difference in the world and when she has time in between harmonizing her creative, philanthropic and executive pursuits. Her recent art events and exhibitions include imPULSEiv in NYC, Zachary Crane Just Come Over and Rochamdeau at Satellite Art Show Miami Art Basel. 2018.