Governance
The Mimesis Institute is governed by a Board of Directors responsible for fiduciary oversight, strategic direction, and institutional integrity. The Board ensures that all activities advance the organization's charitable mission and comply with applicable legal and ethical standards.
The Institute is recognized by the IRS as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with exemption effective August 27, 2025.
Tax Status
The Mimesis Institute is a tax-exempt nonprofit organization under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.
Contributions are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law.
Organizational Structure
The Institute is governed by a Board of Directors responsible for fiduciary oversight and strategic direction.
The Board appoints and oversees the Executive Director, approves compensation in accordance with conflict-of-interest safeguards, and retains authority over major financial and strategic decisions.
The Institute does not have voting members; fiduciary authority resides with the Board of Directors. Additional governance details will be published as the organization develops.
Board of Directors
Jove Spucchi
Jove leads the Institute's strategic direction and day-to-day operations. With a background spanning technology, research, and interdisciplinary creative practice, they guide program development, institutional partnerships, and long-term governance strategy. As President, they preside over Board meetings and ensure implementation of Board-approved initiatives.
Layna Smith
Layna brings experience from high-growth startups, where she focused on customer experience, data privacy, and operational systems. She has led compliance initiatives and cross-functional governance projects, including work supporting public-sector organizations. As Secretary, she maintains corporate records, meeting minutes, and procedural integrity to ensure strong institutional accountability.
Matthew Coleman
Matthew is a producer and cultural strategist whose professional experience spans major technology platforms and leading art institutions. His work includes time at Instagram and collaborations with prominent museums, alongside graduate study in modern and contemporary art history. As Treasurer, he oversees financial reporting and supports responsible fiscal stewardship.
Board Governance Summary — 2026 Organizational Meeting
On February 20, 2026, the Board of Directors of The Mimesis Institute, a Utah nonprofit corporation, convened its organizational meeting.
The Board:
- Adopted the Corporation's Bylaws.
- Adopted a Conflict of Interest and Recusal Policy.
- Confirmed the mission and initial programmatic priorities of the Institute.
- Authorized the opening of a bank account and established financial controls.
- Authorized the officers to pursue grants and accept contributions consistent with the Corporation's mission.
- Set the fiscal year to end on December 31.
The Board meets at least quarterly and maintains formal minutes of all meetings, which are maintained in the corporate records.
Public Disclosure
The Institute makes required governing documents and IRS filings available upon request and will publish annual filings such as Form 990 as they become available.
The Institute strives to operate with clarity, ethical governance, and public accountability.