The Akron Art Museum has announced the appointment of Jared Ledesma as Senior Curator, effective July 12, 2021. Ledesma, who is Latinx, will be the first person of color in the museum’s curatorial department. He joins the Akron Art Museum from the Des Moines Art Center, where he served as Associate Curator and was recognized for his work in diversifying collections and curating exhibitions focused on marginalized communities, such as “Queer Abstraction.” Ledesma expressed his commitment to fostering a culture where the museum actively engages with and reflects its community.

In addition to Ledesma’s appointment, Jeffrey Katzin has been promoted to Assistant Curator. Katzin’s tenure at the museum has been marked by significant contributions, including curating exhibitions like “Totally Rad: Bold Color in the 1980s” and “Totally Radical: Art and Politics in the 1980s.” He also led a comprehensive survey of the museum’s collection to assess demographic representation among the artists featured. The museum’s leadership highlighted Ledesma’s progressive approach and dedication to inclusivity as key factors in his selection, aiming to strengthen the museum’s connection with its diverse audiences and reshape its exhibition programming.

Source: https://akronartmuseum.org/newsroom/akron-art-museum-appoints-jared-ledesma-as-senior-curator-jeffrey-katzin-as-assistant-curator/