Mike Deovlet and Burke Gumbiner, co-chairs of the Museum of Latin American Art’s (MOLAA) board of directors, announced the appointment this week of Stuart A. Ashman as MOLAA’s president and CEO. His appointment is the result of a six-month international search, and his tenure will begin on Sept. 6.
Ashman joins MOLAA as the museum’s 15th anniversary draws to a close. Driven primarily by an evolving and strengthened artistic direction over the last two years, MOLAA has seen growing admissions and increasing accolades from the museum industry and media critics locally, nationally, and internationally.Â
Burke Gumbiner, son of MOLAA’s founder, Dr. Robert Gumbiner, said, “Stuart’s priority will be to create a solid infrastructure to support this growth. The board is excited about MOLAA’s current direction, and we searched for a president with the experience to ensure that the museum would continue to grow and support itself in perpetuity. Stuart’s proven administrative skills in diverse environments combined with his knowledge of Latin American art make him an ideal candidate for this position.” Â
Ashman brings with him over 20 years of museum management experience, having worked nationally and internationally in both private and government sectors. Raised in Cuba, Ashman’s advanced education and professional career have all been based in the United States.
“I am pleased to be given this opportunity and look forward to building upon the founder’s vision and passion for Latin American art and the Latino community which have always been at the core of the institution’s programs, collections and exhibitions,” Ashman said. “MOLAA’s mission is timely. The world of Latin American art is exciting and dynamic— one that should be shared with the widest possible audience.” Â Â
