When the Kennedy Museum of Art began searching for a new director, Edward Pauley jumped at the opportunity to return to a place he calls home.
Pauley, current director at Plains Art Museum in Fargo, ND, and an Ohio University alumnus, said he'd always wanted to return to Athens, given the opportunity.
[The position] is a bit of a homecoming to a place where I can really do what I want to do G
in a place that's very near and dear to my family.
Born in Columbus, Pauley completed a Masters of Fine Arts at OU in 1987. He said he is eager to move closer to numerous family members that reside in the area, adding that the position is a great opportunity.
I think I come in as a solution to the museum. Not that they have problems but they have a lot of possibility he said. I can be part of an organization that I care about.
The position of director has been held by interim directors since October 2006, and is currently held by Sandra Sleight-Brennan, said Charles McWeeny, dean of the College of Fine Arts. Five candidates were interviewed for the position.
He's perfect
McWeeny said of Pauley's appointment, citing Pauley's experience and knowledge of the region.
Future plans for the museum include the continuing renovation of Lin Hall, further integration of arts and academics and creating a showcase for regional artists, said Amy Wells, director of communications and marketing for the fine arts college.
Pauley plans to accredit the museum with American Association of Museums and increase awareness within the student body about the museum's features.
We want to work toward creating a greater dynamic between the student body there and the museum itself. That's something I'm really looking forward to
he sad. There's been a lot of good work down in the Athens area
and it's a little challenging to keep a student body aware.
Pauley will become director on Feb. 1 and receive a salary of $90,000, and his wife and two daughters will join him in May after his wife completes a master's degree in North Dakota, something he thinks will be challenging.
Four months is a little long
he said. I'll have to use my airline miles.
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