When we first read that Jeffrey Deitch was appointed the director of LA MOCA yesterday, we thought about the influence he would hold on both coasts, channeling his independent spirit into an institution that is MOCA. Then it was announced that because of this move, his galleries will cease its operations, ending fifteen years of business. In 2001, Deitch was able to continue what Alleged started, after the closing of Aaron Rose’s seminal gallery. He brought many of Alleged’s artist to a bigger and brighter stage, that in turn propelled their careers. With the departure of Deitch Projects a vacancy in the downtown art scene will be apparent. His spectacular openings were always memorable, expanding beyond the visual and exploring the aural and experiential through performances. Deitch Projects is reported to close on June 1st, the day Jeffrey Deitch is expected to assume his role. Our loss is MOCA’s gain, it will be interesting to see how he will shake up the traditional art world.