Linda Harrison Steps Down as Newark Museum of Art CEO After Transformative Tenure

Linda Harrison Steps Down as Newark Museum of Art CEO After Transformative Tenure

November 21, 2024 Catherine Williams - Chief Editor Entertainment

Linda Harrison Steps Down as Newark Museum of Art CEO

Linda Harrison, Director and CEO of the Newark Museum of Art, is stepping down after six years. Under her leadership, the museum expanded its reputation as an inclusive cultural institution and deepened its community roots. She secured approval for a major physical expansion, with her departure officially set for May 31.

Peter Englot, the museum board’s chairman, praised Harrison as a transformative leader. He highlighted her efforts in showcasing diverse global cultures through the museum’s collection. Harrison plans to move back to the West Coast for family reasons and will serve as a consultant for three months after her departure.

Harrison took on the CEO role in 2018 after leading the Museum of the African Diaspora in San Francisco. She noted the museum’s role in connecting past, present, and future through art. The Newark Museum, New Jersey’s largest fine arts museum, houses over 300,000 works, including significant collections of Asian, American, and Tibetan art.

During her tenure, the museum implemented important changes, including a $112 million redevelopment project featuring two apartment towers and a new contemporary art gallery. The Newark City Council granted a 25-year tax abatement for this project, which expects to break ground before Harrison leaves.

Harrison also initiated visible changes, such as the installation of marble busts at the museum’s entrance, reflecting the multicultural essence of the collection. The museum updated its name in 2019 to emphasize its focus on fine arts.

John Schreiber, CEO of the New Jersey Performing Arts Center, commended Harrison for enhancing arts programming and making the museum accessible to local artists. He stated that her departure will be felt throughout the community.

In her statement about her departure, Harrison expressed gratitude for her time at the museum and recognized its vital role in the cultural landscape of Newark.