Ohio University appointed Courtney Kessel as interim director of the Kennedy Museum of Art, effective May 1. Kessel, who also serves as director of experiential curriculum integration in the university’s Office of Experiential Learning, will hold both positions concurrently on a part-time basis.

Kessel is an interdisciplinary artist whose work spans sculpture, performance, photography, video, and sound. Her ongoing performance series “In Balance With,” begun in 2010, explores motherhood and has been shown nationally and internationally. She teaches BFA seniors in the School of Art + Design. “I’m truly excited to join the Kennedy Museum of Art team during this important moment,” Kessel said.

She succeeds Sandra Harris, who served as director for three years and departs in June. Harris expanded the museum’s programming, strengthened community partnerships, and oversaw the Museum Studies Certificate program. The Kennedy Museum, located in Lin Hall, houses collections of Southwest Native American textiles and ceramics, American paintings, contemporary prints, and photography.

Source: Ohio University